Varicose veins can be harmful to both your physical well being and your appearance. Swollen veins are often painful, and untreated symptoms could lead to worsening health conditions. While some factors, such as age or genetics, can’t be controlled, preventing varicose veins could be possible. By taking the time to set up a preventative routine, you can help keep your veins healthy.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
In order to properly prevent varicose veins, it’s important to know what causes them. There are valves in your veins that help control blood flow. When the valves malfunction, blood can pool in your veins, leading to swelling, pain, and discomfort. The reasons this can happen are many. In some cases, a genetic predisposition can lead to valve failure. In others, strain on the veins caused by prolonged sitting or standing can lead to varicose veins. While you cannot control every cause, there are ways to help prevent certain conditions that increase the chances of developing varicose veins.
Steps to Take to Prevent Varicose Veins
Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing
When you sit or stand in one position for too long, your veins can struggle to maintain proper blood flow. If you work at a job where you have to sit for extended periods of time, try to schedule small breaks to walk around a bit. It can also be a good idea to invest in a standing desk. Switching between sitting and standing throughout the day is a great way to help keep your legs and veins healthy.
If you stand all day for work, try to move around as much as possible. Staying stationary can really affect your legs, feet, and back. Wearing comfortable shoes with extra padding could also help reduce the strain on your legs. Even something as simple as walking in place can help lower your chances of developing varicose veins.
Reduce Salt Intake
High levels of salt in your diet can lead to water retention, which often affects the health of your veins. Reducing sodium intake can help keep your blood flowing normally. Replace salty foods with those high in fiber. Fiber is a great dietary choice to reduce the chances of developing varicose veins.
Consider Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are specially designed to help support your veins and encourage healthy blood flow. You can find compression stockings in a variety of colors and designs to help match your unique aesthetic. Wearing them while standing for long periods of time can help reduce the strain on your legs. Not only could this improve your comfort, but it can also help reduce or even prevent the symptoms associated with varicose veins.
Varicose Vein Treatment
Unfortunately, factors outside of our control can still lead to varicose vein development. If you suffer from varicose veins, you have treatment options available. At Varicose to Perfect, we offer a range of vein treatment options to help reduce pain and discomfort. Call us today at 937-303-4500 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we could help you.