Veins are seen in every part of our body, but most of us do not think much about them until our legs begin to look like a road map. Enlarged, visible, or uncomfortable leg veins, known as varicose veins are a common medical and cosmetic concern that affects one-third of the population.
They are large, swollen veins that often appear on the legs and feet. They occur when the valves in the veins do not work properly, so the blood does not flow effectively. The veins rarely need treatment for health reasons, but treatment is available if there is swelling, pain, and soreness in the legs.
In this article, we look at ways to go about them. If a person has varicose veins, they can try the following to help manage the condition and improve symptoms:
Exercise
Exercising regularly promotes blood circulation in the legs, which helps to move the blood that has accumulated in the veins. Exercise can help lower one’s blood pressure, which is another cause of varicose veins. Low-impact exercises help the calf muscles work under excessive pressure. Effective, low-impact exercises include: swimming, walking, cycling, yoga
Eat more flavonoids
Intake of foods containing flavonoids can help an individual shrink their varicose veins. Flavonoids improve circulation, which helps blood flow and makes it less likely to pool in the veins. They also help lower blood pressure in the arteries and can relax the blood vessels, which can reduce varicose veins. Foods that contain flavonoids include vegetables such as onions, peppers, spinach and broccoli, citrus fruits and grapes, cherries, apples, and blueberries.
Massage
Massaging affected areas are effective in keeping the blood moving through the veins. For maximum effects, one can use moisturizers or massage oils on affected areas. It is also important, however, to ensure avoidance of pressing directly into veins, as this may have adverse effects on fragile tissues.
Choose non- restrictive clothing
Wearing tight-fitting clothes can restrict blood flow. Loose clothing may improve circulation and may not restrict blood supply to the lower body. Wearing flat shoes instead of high heels can help with varicose veins in the legs.
Compression Stockings
Pressure stockings are accessible from most pharmacies and can help by applying pressure to the legs. This helps the muscles and veins to push blood toward the heart.
A study from 2018 found that individuals who used knee-high compression stockings with a pressure of 18 to 21 mmHg for a week, revealed a decrease in pain associated with varicose veins.
Inasmuch as varicose veins are generally not life threatening, they can cause discomfort and make one feel self conscious. Lifestyle changes and diet can improve symptoms. A person with severe varicose veins should seek medical treatment to help improve symptoms and reduce the appearance.
References
1. Debra R, (2020). Home remedies. Available at https://medicalnewstoday.com
2. Laurel N, (2019). What to do about varicose veins. Available at https://webmd.com
