Whilst there is no proven methodology to say what will definitely prevent a person from getting varicose veins or other veins problems, there are things that are recommended to reduce the risk. These include strengthening the veins in the legs, where varicose veins usually occur.
Exercise Regularly
Exercising regularly can strengthen the muscles in the legs, such as the calf and thigh muscles. As muscles contract, becoming shorter and tighter due to being worked hard, they promote good venous tone and help improve circulation. This puts less pressure on the veins, meaning a decreased chance of varicose veins. Exercising regularly also means a decreased chance of being overweight, which is another risk factor that can cause varicose veins. The more overweight you are, the more pressure there is on the veins, which causes the valves to weaken and blood to flow in the wrong direction through the veins, causing them to become varicose.
Change Your Diet
You may not have thought this would strengthen veins, but certain foods that are rich in Vitamin C and flavonoids can work together to keep collagen (the intra-cellular structure that the walls of the veins are made of) healthy and strong. The stronger the collagen in the walls of your veins, the stronger the veins are and the less pressure will be put on the valves, reducing the risk of the veins becoming varicose. Vegetables are full of flavonoids and fruits such as oranges contain plenty of vitamin C.
Avoid Standing for Long Periods of Time
If you have a job that means you stand for long periods, gravity will cause the veins to work harder to push the blood back to the heart. This will, over time, weaken the valves in the veins and eventually they may become varicose. If you take breaks wherever possible and either sit or lie down to let gravity assist your veins. You should also walk around to stimulate blood flow. Do not sit with your legs crossed as this can cause extra pressure on the veins.
Doing any or all these things can reduce the risk factors associated with varicose veins, but there is no guarantee that despite following these tips you will not get varicose veins. If despite your best efforts, you believe you are suffering from varicose veins, contact us today to schedule an appointment with the best varicose vein doctor in NYC.