Prevention of Varicose Veins

Prevention of varicose veins begins with understanding the risk factors that increase the chances of developing them. While some risk factors (such as genetics) cannot be controlled, prevention of varicose veins focuses on eliminating or reducing the risk factors that can be controlled, including obesity and standing for long periods of time. Suggestions for the prevention of varicose veins include getting regular exercise, losing weight, and following a low-salt diet rich in high-fiber foods.

 

Prevention of Varicose Veins: An Overview

Varicose veins are enlarged veins most commonly found on the inside of the leg or on the backs of the calves. There are many factors that increase a person's chances for developing varicose veins. These "varicose veins risk factors" include such things as genetics, pregnancy, injuries, and obesity.
 
Prevention of varicose veins begins by:
 
  • Knowing the varicose veins risk factors and the ones that apply to you (see Cause of Varicose Veins)
     
  • Making lifestyle changes to decrease your risk factors
     
  • Improving blood circulation and muscle tone.
     
Unfortunately, for a lot of people, prevention of varicose veins is easier said than done. While they can do all the right things, they may still have risk factors for varicose veins that they cannot control. With that said, if varicose veins do develop, the strategies discussed below can also help ease discomfort from the varicose veins you already have.
 
(Prevention of Varicose Veins Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD