If you've been noticing the tell-tale signs of varicose veins on your legs, it's not too late to stop the invasion. Those little veins that pop up around your knees and ankles can be quite annoying, especially during the summer, when your legs tend to be more exposed to the world. Here are four methods you can use to prevent varicose veins.
Avoid Tight Clothing
If you're in the habit of wearing tight clothing, you could start seeing an increase in the number of varicose veins you have. Tight clothing can cut off the circulation to your legs, causing your veins to constrict. When that happens, you'll start developing varicose veins, especially around the ankles. To reduce the development of varicose veins, avoid clothing that's tight around the ankles, calves, or waist. This includes, jeans, socks, and shoes that are too tight.
Listen to Your Legs
If your legs start tingling during the day, they could be trying to warn you that their circulation is being cut-off. If that's the case, you should make a quick change to what you're doing. If you're sitting down, stand up and move around for a few seconds. If your legs are crossed, uncross them, and find a different way to sit. It's a good idea to stop crossing your legs altogether. You might not know this, but crossing your legs increases your risk of varicose veins.
Take a Walk
If you're not getting enough exercise during the day, you could be inviting varicose veins. Sedentary lifestyles, and jobs that require you to sit at a desk all day, can leave you vulnerable to the development of varicose veins. To help prevent that, try adding more exercise into your daily routine. If you don't have enough time to go to the gym each day, take a brisk walk at least once a day. If your work schedule prevents a walk in the morning or evening, try walking around the block, or around the office during your lunch hour each day.
See the Doctor
If you're noticing a significant increase in the number of varicose veins you have, or the one's you have are becoming painful, it's time to see the doctor. Treatments are available that will eliminate the unsightly veins. Your doctor will be able to discuss treatment options with you, and show you additional ways to help stop the occurrence of varicose veins.
