Prevention of Spider and Varicose Veins

By Gabby Hyman gabby.hyman@hqpublications.com Pharmavita Columnist January 18, 2005

Varicose veins are purple or dark blue veins that bulge from just below the skin on your legs. They don't cause a lot of harm, but can be psychologically and physically uncomfortable.

They can itch or throb, and people who have them can go to great lengths to just to hide them. They often won't go away without surgical stripping or catheterization, but there are things patients can do to minimize the swelling and outbreak of varicose veins.

Self Care in Varicose Vein Treatment

Doctors say that if you lose excess weight, you can keep your varicose veins in check, or at least lessen the pressure of blood that flows into them. Exercise may be the best overall treatment of all, short of varicose vein removal.

Even if you've been living a sedentary lifestyle, your physician can recommend an activity that gets the blood moving in your legs without causing too much discomfort. It's also important to elevate your legs several times during the day as part of a comprehensive home-based varicose vein treatment plan.

If you just sit for fifteen minutes with your legs propped on a pillow, it can dramatically improve your circulation. Doctors suggest that you avoid crossing your legs when you're seated, since this cuts circulation and inflames varicose veins. If you have a job where you stand a lot, shift your weight, or take routine short walks.

Dress for Success

Women who wear high heels can exacerbate enlarged varicose veins. Tight pantyhose, leotards, girdles or other constricting clothing should be avoided as much as possible. Men should avoid constricting socks. You can influence your overall wellness by changing a few habits.

About the Author
Gabby Hyman has written for print and online media for more than 20 years. He has created online content for eToyds, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Avaya, and Nissan, UK. He has also been a web consultant to the Governer of California. As an author of fiction, journalism, and poetry, Gabby is a former English professor for the University of Illinois, Universityu of Alaska, and Old Dominion University. He holds an MFA in fiction writing from the University of Alabama.