How Can I Lower My Risk of Varicose Veins?

How Can I Lower My Risk of Varicose Veins?

Posted on July 15, 2016 by Texas Vein & Wellness Institute

If you’ve started to notice bulging veins in your legs or you have a family history of varicose veins, then you may be wondering what you can do to reduce your risk of developing these painful veins or lower the discomfort associated with this condition. Read on to learn about risk factors and things you can do to reduce the risk of developing varicose veins.

Risk factors

If you stand or sit for an extended period of time, you risk decreased blood circulation in your legs, which increases your risk of developing varicose veins. Other risk factors include sex as women are more prone to these than men, increasing age, pregnancy, family history and trauma to the leg. 

What you can do

If you have a job that requires you to stand or sit for long periods of time, be sure to change your position frequently and move around every 30 minutes. Stretch or walk around whenever to keep the blood moving. Also try elevating your legs above your heart for 15 minutes before you go to work or when you come home to help move your blood through your veins. 

• Exercise is very important to relieving pain from varicose veins and preventing them from forming as well. Regular exercise has many health benefits, one of which includes improving your circulation.
• Exercise will also help you reach and maintain a healthy weight. When you lose excess pounds, you can take extra pressure off of your veins, which will help prevent varicose veins.
• It’s also important to know that if you smoke, it is not good for your veins. Talk to your doctor about smoking-cessation options that would be best for you.
• Your clothing choices make a difference as well. Do not wear clothing that is too tight around your waist, legs and groin area. While tight clothing around the waist may not be a good idea, your doctor may advise that you wear compression stockings on your legs to encourage blood to keep moving through your veins and circulate back up to your heart.