Advice from Your Vein Doctor: Health Directly Affects Your Vein Health

Live an Active Lifestyle

Those who sit or stand in one place for long periods of time are at higher risk of developing varicose veins. Take time throughout the day to move your legs by walking, jogging, or exercising to improve your overall health and prevent the development of varicose veins. If you work in a job that requires you to stand in one place for long hours, use your breaks to move around and stretch your legs. When you do have to sit, avoid crossing your legs.

Manage Your Weight

Obesity is a leading cause of vein disease in the legs. A vein doctor will advise to manage your weight by making healthy dietary choices, limiting intake of fat and cholesterol and choosing colorful fruits and vegetables. Maintaining and active lifestyle can also assist in weight management.

Quit Smoking

Smoking causes not only varicose veins, but many other diseases over time. Contact your local quit line to learn more about quitting and get the resources you need to quit. It’s never too late to decrease your odds of developing varicose veins or the other disease associated with smoking.

Choose the Right Clothes and Accessories

It may sound surprising but your choice in clothes and shoes can directly impact your lower extremity vein health! Choose pants that are loose-fitting in the waist and throughout the legs as tight-fitting pants can contribute to the development and worsening of varicose veins. Wearing high heels for extended periods of time can also restrict the movement of blood through the veins of the lower extremities. Choose either flat or low-heeled shoes for daily wear.

Schedule Regular Checkups

You should schedule an appointment with your vein specialist as soon as you notice a new varicose veins. Because varicose veins can be life-threatening when left untreated, prompt evaluation by a specialist is imperative in preventing complications like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

To learn more about preventing or treating varicose veins, contact Mclean Vein and Wellness Center today!