Varicose veins are enlarged, gnarled and twisted veins that are usually bluish purple. The most commonly affected veins are those in your legs and feet.
There are ways you can prevent and treat varicose veins. Read on below to find out what they are:
Prevention:
1. Wear Support Hose
Consider wearing support hose as much as possible. They can help prevent blood from pooling.
2. Flats Over Heels
Avoid wearing high heels as much as possible. Choose flats over heels, since they allow the calf muscles to contract fully.
3. Exercise
Consult your doctor regarding the appropriate exercise or activity for you. Walking is one way to support blood circulation in your legs. You can also try low-impact activities, such as biking and swimming. These will not put a strain on your legs.
4. Watch Your Weight and Diet
Losing excess weight takes unnecessary pressure off your veins. Your eating consumption can help as well. Therefore, follow a diet low in sodium or salt, to prevent swelling caused from water retention.
5. Change Your Position
Avoid long periods of sitting or standing. Change your position as much as possible, to encourage blood flow. Try to move around at least every 30 minutes.
6. Elevate your legs.
To help improve the circulation in your legs, take several short breaks frequently, to elevate your legs above the level of your heart. A good example is, lying down with your legs resting on 3-4 pillows.
Treatment:
1. Reflexology
Is a form of bodywork that focuses on the feet. Reflexology is known to reduced leg swelling.
2. Butcher’s broom
Butcher’s broom (Ruscus aculeatus) belongs to the lily family, and is known as knee holly or box holly. It contains ruscogenins, that is known to strengthen collagen in blood vessel walls and improves circulation.
3. Pine Bark and Grape Seed Extracts
Pine bark and grape seed extract, both contains oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs). These are antioxidants, that helps to strengthen the connective tissue structure of blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
4. Horse Chestnut Extract
Horse chestnut extract is one of the widely used alternative medicine remedies for varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, a related condition. The active ingredient in horse chestnut is called aescin.
