varicose veins Develop for various reasons. Age, family history, female gender, pregnancy, obesityHormone replacement or birth control medication, sitting or standing for long periods of time, and other factors all increase the risk.
On the other hand, some risk factors, such as age and family history, are more difficult to prevent than others. Although you can’t prevent varicose veins completely, we talk to Dr Abhishek Bansal, Senior Consultant and Chief Interventional Radiologist, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, on how to manage their impact and prevent existing veins from getting worse .
“It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to avoid complications,” he says.
healthy diet
A diet high in fiber and low in sodium and fat will help your veins stay healthy. Dr. Bansal recommends eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help promote your general health and avoid obesity, a major risk factor for varicose veins.
Regular Exercise
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve circulation, strengthen leg muscles, and maintain a healthy weight. According to Dr. Bansal, at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, such as walking, bicycling or swimming, most days of the week can help prevent varicose veins.
maintaining a healthy weight
Being overweight puts extra pressure on your veins, making varicose veins more likely. Dr. Bansal recommends losing weight through a combination of diet and exercise to reduce your risk.
wear loose clothes
Tight clothing, such as jeans or leggings, can restrict blood flow and contribute to varicose veins. Dr. Bansal says, choose loose-fitting clothes to keep your feet from shrinking.
Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time
Sitting or standing for long periods of time can put pressure on your nerves. If your work requires sitting or standing for long periods of time, Dr. Bansal recommends taking frequent breaks to move around.
raise your legs
Elevating your legs can improve circulation and relieve stress. Dr. Bansal suggests elevating your feet above your heart for at least 15 minutes several times a day.
Self-Care Tips for Managing Varicose Veins
Dr. Bansal advises that compression stockings can help increase blood flow and reduce swelling. They prevent blood from pooling in the veins by applying pressure to the legs.
Wearing shoes with good support can prevent varicose veins from getting worse. Dr. Bansal suggests avoiding high heels and choosing low heels with proper arch support.
Dr. Bansal says that cold compress can reduce swelling and pain. Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel or a bag of frozen vegetables to your feet for 15-20 minutes.
Soaking your feet in warm water increases circulation and helps reduce swelling, says Dr. Bansal. Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes at a time for best results.
Light massage can improve circulation and reduce swelling. Dr. Bansal recommends massaging your feet in circular motions from ankle to thigh.
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