6 Ways You Can Prevent Varicose Veins from Worsening

Varicose veins are a health problem that mostly affects the legs and can sometimes be difficult to treat. They can restrict your movement and ability to conduct your daily activities. Fortunately, you can take various preventative measures to stop them from developing or worsening. In most cases, varicose veins do not cause major problems but can sometimes cause serious health issues if left untreated for long periods. If you are at a higher risk of developing this condition, visit a varicose veins Weston specialist to acquire useful tips on preventing them. Here are seven simple ways you can incorporate into your daily life to avoid developing varicose veins.

1. Exercise Your Calf Muscles Regularly

The calf muscles are the primary muscles that pump blood back to the heart. These muscles are used in all activities that require you to stand on your feet for long periods. Exercises such as running and cycling might strengthen your calf muscles which helps prevent varicose veins. These exercises improve blood flow in areas where blood pools around veins due to tension on the tendons and ligaments.

2. Rest Occasionally

Rest and elevate your legs occasionally throughout the day. If you are sitting for long periods, try placing a pillow between your knees or ankles to help prevent swelling. It is important to keep your legs elevated for at least 15 minutes after exercising. This step will help reduce blood pooling in the legs, which can cause swelling and inflammation that can lead to varicose veins.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight prevents varicose veins from developing or getting worse. Being overweight can put extra pressure on your veins, making them more prone to rupture. An unhealthy weight can lead to an increase in the number of varicose veins or make them worse over time. 

4. Avoid Wearing Tight Clothing

To prevent varicose veins from worsening, you should avoid wearing tight clothing since it puts pressure on the veins and causes them to expand. Loose clothing is better because it allows blood to flow freely through your thighs and legs, which prevents varicose veins from forming. If you are unsure what kind of clothing you should buy to prevent varicose veins, consult your doctor.

5. Avoid Standing or Sitting for Long Periods

Take regular breaks from standing or sitting for long periods. Standing for long periods, especially in one spot, might affect the normal blood circulation in your legs. As a result, your veins might expand and bulge out, causing varicose veins. When sitting, it is important to take short breaks to allow your leg muscles to circulate blood to your heart.

6. Wear Compression Stockings

If you are at a higher risk of developing varicose veins, your doctor might recommend compression stockings or socks. These garments boost blood flow in your feet, legs, thighs, and ankles. As a result, your risk of developing varicose veins significantly reduces. Talk with your doctor about the type of compression stockings or socks suitable for you. 

Do you have unsightly varicose veins that you are struggling to eliminate? Contact Soffer Health Institute for various effective measures and treatments to help restore your beautiful skin by eliminating them. Through Dr. Ariel Soffer and Dr. Yael Myles, you can effectively improve the health of your legs by getting rid of varicose veins. Call their offices today or use the online tool to schedule an appointment with either of them.