If you are prone to spider or varicose veins, there are some self-care measures you can take to improve your vein health and decrease any discomfort that is caused by diseased veins. Read on to learn more about some simple ways to improve your vein health and why these measures are important.
Get Moving
Sitting too much causes poor circulation. If you have a desk job, or take long car rides, it’s important to take breaks and get your body moving. When you have healthy circulation, your veins carry the blood away from your lower legs and up to your heart. Prolonged sitting or even standing makes it difficult for your body to keep the blood flowing upward. That can lead to blood pooling in your legs and causing swelling in the feet and ankles in particular.
Start with standing up every 30 minutes. Change your posture or position regularly. And go for a walk. You don’t have to do strenuous exercise to make a difference. Just walking a slow pace for 30 minutes, five days a week, will help you reap many health benefits.
Check Your Diet
It’s no secret that your diet can have a significant impact on your overall health. Foods that are help improve blood flow include vitamin C-rich oranges, nitrate-rich beets and beet juice, peppers, radishes and salmon all help with blood flow. Also try to reduce the amount of salt you consume in your diet as too much salt can cause swelling from water retention.
Watch Your Weight
Carrying too much weight can put pressure on your veins, and shedding excess pounds will help with that.
Elevate Your Legs
Elevating your legs can improve the circulation in your legs. Take several short breaks throughout the day to elevate your legs above your heart. Lie down with your legs resting on a few pillows to keep them higher than the level of your heart.
If you are concerned about your vein health or spider or varicose veins in particular, call 817.893.2699 to schedule a consultation.