How to Relieve Varicose Veins

Going for a walk on the beach ... or just around the neighborhood ... can stop varicose veins from ever forming.

Varicose veins are swollen, enlarged veins in the legs which usually appear a blue or purple color. They may also look bumpy, twisted or bulging. These painful and unsightly veins usually develop when small valves inside the veins cease to work properly and the blood flow begins to collect in your veins. Those suffering from varicose veins may report suffering from related symptoms such as leg muscle cramps, aching in the legs and ankles, and swelling in the legs. Thankfully, there are some useful things which you can do to either relieve or even totally get rid of varicose veins.

Adjusting Your Lifestyle

A lot of the time, varicose veins are a result of your lifestyle. For example, if you work at a job which requires you to sit or stand for extended periods of time, this can cause the valves in your veins to weaken, subsequently causing varicose veins. In order to combat this, avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time, take regular breaks at work where possible to walk around, and stretch your legs.

Elevating Your Legs

When you sit down, keeping your legs uncrossed and elevated can help to reduce the symptoms of varicose veins. Elevating your legs when you sit can help to ease the pressure on your blood vessels, whilst keeping them uncrossed reduces the pressure on your veins themselves. Placing your feet on a stool or other chair when you’re sitting down helps to improve the circulation in your legs. Occasionally, try to lift your legs so that your feet are above the level of your heart.

Adjusting Your Sleeping Position

Adjusting your sleeping position so that your legs are raised can also help to relieve varicose veins. Whilst you sleep, keep your feet placed on a pillow or two in order to keep them elevated and improve the circulation of blood around your legs whilst you sleep. Keeping your legs raised whilst you’re lay down is just as important as when you are sitting.

Loose Clothing

Loose-fitting clothing and low-heeled shoes are the best choices of garment when you want to reduce varicose veins in the legs. Low-heeled shoes or flat shoes cause your calf muscles to work more when you’re walking, which helps with the circulation of blood in your legs. You should especially avoid wearing clothes that fit tightly around the waist, groin or legs. Instead, go for clothing which does not restrict these areas in order to keep blood flow healthy.

Regular Exercise

Including regular exercise in your daily routine can improve both the circulation and the muscle tone in your legs. Exercising on a regular basis can also help you to lose weight if you need to, subsequently relieving pressure on your legs and greatly minimizing your varicose veins. Even something such as a short half an hour walk or jog each day can greatly help to improve your circulation overall. Focus on cardiovascular activities which help to get the blood pumping throughout your body.

If your varicose vein problems persist, it’s advisable to visit a specialist vascular doctor for more advice.