8 Everyday Vein Health Tips
We go to great lengths to maintain our physical and mental health. But one often-overlooked bodily system has the potential to wreak havoc on both, if not properly cared for. That’s right; we’re talking about vein health.
The function of our veins is to return blood back to the heart, after being pumped throughout our artery system. However, our veins must continually work against gravity to send blood back to the heart from lower areas of the body, including the feet and legs, where circulation issues, spider veins, and varicose veins are most common.
When veins have to work too hard, they can begin to stretch, and lose their ability to function properly. The one-way valve that helps ensure that blood flows in the right direction may fail, causing blood to pool. This pooling of blood causes venous issues like varicose and spider veins.
Luckily, there are small, everyday actions we can take to help our veins do their job properly and prevent the pain, discomfort, and cosmetic issues varicose and spider veins cause. Here are 8 of these easy tips for better vein health:
Limit Salt Intake
It pays to keep your body well-hydrated. Avoiding salt helps prevent swelling, which, in combination with sitting or standing, can put further pressure on veins. Watch for sodium levels on food labels and restaurant menus.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise helps improve circulation, improve vein function, strengthen the body, improve blood flow, and more. Walking, running, swimming, yoga, and gentle strength training are highly recommended at least 3 times per week. Swimming is especially beneficial for the circulatory system, as it alleviates pressure on veins, and removes the factor of gravity from the equation (while you are in the water).
Wear compression garments
Compression garments, such as compression socks, can relieve swelling and help increase blood flow.
Elevate your legs
Elevating the legs helps reduce the demand of the veins. Put your feet up whenever possible, and sleep with a small pillow under your feet.
Wear comfortable, non-restrictive shoes
High heels look great in pictures, but that’s about all they are good for. Wear shoes that allow full range of motion of the foot, ankle and calves. These areas are the furthest from the heart, and require the veins to constantly work against gravity.
Keep Moving
Get up and walk around at least once every hour. Perform simple calf, foot and ankle exercises and stretches every hour.
Rethink how you sit
Sitting in the same position can cut off circulation in the backs of the legs. Change positions frequently, alternate between sitting and standing, and make sure to get up at least once per hour.
Wear loose-fitting clothing
Tight clothing and support garments may limit the blood flow through your legs, waist, and pelvic area.
Integrating these tips into your everyday life may help slow the progression of vein disease, or make already-present vein issues less uncomfortable.
If you are one of the millions of Americans currently struggling with varicose or spider veins, know that there are simple, affordable, and painless treatments available. Contact Elmore Medical today to discuss your treatment options.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us today to set up a consultation appointment.