Varicose veins are an unsightly health issue for many people, especially older women. The Office of Women’s Health reports that 50 percent of U.S. adults age 50 and older suffer from varicose veins. Because of their unsightly appearance and their frequency, there are a variety of treatments available to reduce or completely cure your varicose veins.
Stay Active
One of the biggest things that you can do to reduce your varicose veins is to stay active. Varicose veins can make your legs feel heavy or achy, but moving around is one of the best ways to improve the circulation. Remaining stationary, especially if you are sitting for long periods of time, can cause the blood to pool in your veins. In turn, this causes your veins to bulge even more. Keep your blood flowing by exercising at least 30 minutes per day. You can do something simple, like walk around the block, or more involved, like play a sport.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Putting too much pressure on your veins can cause your varicose veins to become more extreme and to stand out even more. If you are overweight, that extra weight means that your body has to work harder to circulate your blood. This extra pressure can cause your varicose veins to become worse and more painful. Losing weight won’t completely cure them, but it can reduce the bulging and make it more comfortable.
Wear Compression Socks
Compression socks are specially designed socks that are meant to help you deal with the symptoms of varicose veins. This is often one of the first treatments that your doctor will recommend. They reduce blood pooling and clots by putting pressure on compressing surface veins and increasing the pressure of your arteries. This means that more blood will return to your heart. Compression socks should be tightest near the ankle and be snug on the rest of your leg.
Seek Professional Treatment
Chances are, you won’t be able to get rid of your varicose veins on your own. You may also be suffering from deep vein thrombosis or varicose veins that aren’t visible on the surface. Getting professional treatment for your varicose veins will reduce or completely cure your varicose veins, with very little effect on your life. According to Intermountain Vein Center, you should be able to return to most of your normal activities immediately.
There are a variety of treatment methods you can use, depending on the severity of your varicose veins. For the best results, make sure you are including your doctor in your decisions. They can provide expert guidance for the best methods for your situation.