Varicose veins can result in chronic pain when left untreated. Thankfully, there are many treatment options and lifestyle choices you can make to control your symptoms. But the most important thing you should do is see a vein specialist like Carol A. White MD. Your doctor may even let you exercise even if you have varicose veins to improve blood flow, depending on the severity of your condition. The following are some ways you can manage your varicose veins:
- Wearing Compression Stockings
The valves in your veins keep the flow of blood in one direction. If the function of these valves is compromised, blood can pool, causing varicose veins in your legs. Your vein specialist may recommend that you wear compression stockings to put mild pressure on your legs. Your blood will flow properly again when your valves get the necessary support. Also, the stockings can help prevent the development of blood clots.
- Avoid Sitting or Standing for a Long Time
If your job requires you to stand or sit several hours every day, you must move, rest, and exercise during your work hours. Prolonged standing can put undue stress on the veins in your legs. Also, sitting for a long time will compromise blood flow.
- Exercise
Although it can be painful to perform exercises if you have varicose veins, some activities can help improve blood flow through your leg veins. They include biking, walking, and swimming. Moving your calves and getting blood to flow through your legs is essential. But, ensure you warm up before you exercise. Also, do not exercise after you get specific vein treatments. Consult your doctor first before starting an exercise routine for your varicose veins.
- Quit Smoking
Smoking impacts a lot of body organs and can damage your blood vessels. When you smoke, circulation is restricted, narrowing blood vessels. Smoking can result in poor circulation and varicose veins development.
- Elevate Your Feet
To effectively manage your varicose veins, elevate your feet to allow for a smoother flow of blood into and back from your legs, improving circulation. Also, you can reduce pain and swelling in your legs when you elevate your feet. And if painful ulcers have developed because of your varicose veins, you can staff them off when the swelling has reduced.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
Extra body weight can put pressure on your leg veins, worsening the pooling of blood. Losing weight can reduce the pressure and prevent existing varicose veins from becoming more visible.