Varicose vein sufferers know that there can be mild to extreme discomfort in the legs. Most commonly occurring in the legs, varicose veins are enlarged or twisted veins. While some people experience no pain, many note a heaviness feeling in their legs, muscle cramping or swelling in the legs, itching or skin discoloration, or achiness, especially after sitting or standing for a long time. Other noticeable symptoms are veins that are dark purple or blue in color or veins that look twisted or enlarged.
If you have any of those symptoms, please see a doctor for a physical examination and to discuss next steps. Varicose veins can lead to more serious problems, so it’s crucial you speak with your physician.
Self-care of varicose veins
Often, treatment of varicose veins includes some self-care measures or lifestyle changes that can ease the discomfort. These actions may even prevent or slow the development of varicose veins.
Avoid sitting or standing for an extended period.
It’s important to encourage blood flow, so try not to sit or stand in the same position for too long. If you work at an office, try to get up and walk around as much as possible and avoid keeping your legs and feet in the same position too long. If you work on your feet, try to change the position of your legs and stretch.
Be careful with your diet.
Extra weight can put extra pressure on your veins, so talk to your doctor about what a healthy weight looks like and steps to take to achieve that goal. Furthermore, try to avoid too much salt in your diet. Too much salt may cause swelling from water retention.
Exercise regularly.
Extra weight can put extra pressure on your veins, so talk to your doctor about what a healthy weight looks like and steps to take to achieve that goal. Furthermore, try to avoid too much salt in your diet. Too much salt may cause swelling from water retention.
Walking, running, or any type of movement is a great way to increase blood circulation in the legs. Even a 20-minute walk per day can make a difference. Talk to your doctor about what exercises are appropriate and which can help with leg discomfort.
Elevate your legs, if needed.
Depending on your discomfort level, you can improve the blood circulation in your legs by elevating them above your heart. Grab some pillows and put your legs up for short breaks throughout the day.
Compression stockings
Compression stockings squeeze your legs to improve circulation and can help alleviate some discomfort. Talk to your doctor and ask if compression stockings are right for you. Your physician may send you for a blood circulation test before recommending them. They come in different lengths, such as to the knee or thigh, depending on the individual’s needs. They also come in different pressures, such as light or medium.
Many patients wear compression stockings from when they wake up in the morning until they go to bed at night. However, your doctor may recommend them only for long trips or flights, when you will be sitting in the same position for an extended period of time. Pregnant women, who are more prone to varicose veins, may also be prescribed them during their pregnancy.
Some patients may need custom-made compression stockings, which require measurements to ensure the right size. Your doctor will make recommendations on this as well.
Reducing the discomfort
Always speak to your doctor about varicose veins and treatment. Your physician will make recommendations based on your individual case and create a treatment plan tailored to you.
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