How to Treat and Prevent Varicose Veins

Varicose and spider veins are most frequently found on the legs.

Varicose veins are painful, unsightly and can lead to more serious health problems. You can take steps to prevent and treat varicose veins by making healthy adjustments to your lifestyle and daily routines.

Instructions

1. Sit with your legs uncrossed to avoid slowing down the flow of blood from your heart, and putting pressure on your legs veins. Avoid sitting or standing for extended periods of time; if you have to sit for a long time, get up and move around every hour to get your blood flowing.

2. Put your feet up when you're sitting. When you're relaxing at home, try to sit with your feet elevated to promote good blood flow.

3. Take regular walks. Walking and other low-impact exercise helps your circulation and delivers oxygen to your veins and leg muscles.

4. Eat a low-salt diet rich in vitamin C and watch your weight. Vitamin C is crucial for building and maintaining strong blood vessels, and excess body weight stresses your cardiovascular system.

Tips & Warnings

• Women can wear special compression stockings designed to promote good blood flow to the legs.

• Serious cases of varicose veins may need to be treated by surgery or other medical procedures. Ask your doctor for more information or if you think your condition is serious.

References

• Cleveland Clinic: Varicose and Spider Veins
• Dr. Ben Kim: Prevent Varicose Veins
• Women's Health.gov: Varicose and Spider Vein Fact Sheet