The Prevention of Varicose Veins

Can I prevent the development of varicose veins?

You cannot change your genes, but you can keep your weight under control, exercise, eat a healthy diet high in fiber, and try to stick to loose comfortable clothing when possible. If you are genetically destined to develop varicose veins, they may appear despite all your best efforts. There are, however some strategies you can do to prevent earlier development of varicose veins:

• Watch your weight, and your diet. Shedding excess pounds takes unnecessary pressure off your veins. What you eat makes a difference, too. Follow a low-salt, high-fiber diet to prevent the swelling that may result from water retention and constipation.
  
  
• Watch what you wear. Avoid high heels. Low-heeled shoes work calf muscles more, which is better for your veins. Don't wear tight clothes around your waist, legs or groin. Control-top panty hose or girdles, for instance, can restrict circulation.
  
  
• Elevate your legs. To improve venous circulation, take several short breaks daily to elevate your legs above the level of your heart. For example, lie down with your legs resting on three or four pillows.
  
  
• Avoid long periods of sitting or standing. Make a point of changing your position frequently to encourage blood flow. Try to move around at least every 30 minutes.
  
  
• Don't sit with your legs crossed. This position can aggravate circulation problems.
  
  
• Wear graduated compression stockings. This is often the first approach to try before moving on to other treatments. Graduated compression stockings worn all day steadily squeeze your legs from the ankle to the thigh. This helps relieve the pressure on the lower leg and retards development of varicose veins and skin changes. The amount of compression varies by type and brand. The new varieties of stockings today come in a variety of strengths, styles and colors and are very fashionable. With the variety offered, you're likely to find a stocking that you're comfortable wearing. You can buy compression stockings at most medical supply stores. Prescription-strength stockings also are available. When purchasing compression stockings, it is most important to be properly measured and fitted. Compression stockings should be snug but not necessarily tight. If you have weak hands or arthritis, getting these stockings on may be difficult. There are devices to make putting them on easier. In addition, many insurance companies require a six month trial of compression stockings before you seek further treatment for removal of your varicose veins or your reflux.