If you are noticing tangled clusters of spider veins cropping up on your knees, or gnarly masses of ropy purple veins suddenly appearing on your calves, you may be surprised to learn that you are in the beginning stages of vein disease. If you don’t change your habits, you may be headed towards the path of serious complications! Vein disease strikes one out of every three Americans each year, making it a common, but rarely understood problem.
Fortunately, it’s possible to reverse the effects of many vein disorders through surgery, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both, if you start now, right when you first begin to notice the changes occurring. We’ve compiled a list of the top habits of people who live a vein disease-free life to help you start your journey towards good vein health.
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Exercise Regularly
Vein health starts with unobstructed blood flow, and as boring as it may sound, exercise helps keep your blood flowing easily through veins that are not yet blocked. Walking, swimming, biking, and climbing stairs are all exercises that can help you avoid developing vein disease. 30 minutes is the minimum amount of time you should exercise for maximum benefit.
Move Often
Do you have a career that requires you to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time? Do you have to fly frequently for your work? Standing or sitting in one position is dangerous for your vein health. If you can’t change careers (How many of us can at this stage in our lives?), at least try to take frequent breaks. If your job involves standing, rest with your legs extended for a few minutes every so often; if you’re chained to your desk day after day, get up and move at least once an hour. We’ve found that stationing your printer, copier, or fax machine away from your desk is very helpful, and your veins will thank you later!
Keep Away from the Heat
As nice as it feels to soak tired muscles in a hot tub after a long workout, or to sit in a sauna socializing with your friends, extreme heat can distend your veins, leading to the development of varicose veins. Even excessively hot baths can be bad for your veins, so turn the temperature down if you feel the need for a soak!
Say No to Salt
And yes to fiber! A high fiber diet is as good for your veins as a high salt diet is bad for them, so remember to skip that extra sprinkle of salt and add more Brussel sprouts; we think you’ll be happy with the results!
Eat Right, Stay at Your Ideal Weight, and Call the Skin & Vein Center
Sometimes it is the simple solutions that have the most impact. Other times you need the help of a professional. Schedule a consultation with us today and let us be your guide to good vein health!