Varicose veins and spider veins are generally considered not only to be an unpleasant annoyance, but they can also lead to health problems and other complications. Learn more about simple preventive tips you can apply in your daily life.
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins are irregularly twisted veins that are permanently swollen. They mainly appear in the legs. They occur when the valves in the veins in your legs are no longer able to close properly. The blood pools instead of being pumped back upwards.
Spider veins as a precursor
Veins that are only slightly swollen are referred to as spider veins. Many people who suffer from them consider them unattractive, but medically speaking they don't cause any issues. Varicose veins, on the other hand, can lead to health issues such as tense or swollen legs and blood clots.
Although your likelihood of developing varicose veins is often determined by your genes, there are tips you can follow to prevent them.
Tip 1: Cool your veins
Alternating hot and cold water in the shower, and using cold water in particular, is a method that promotes circulation and keeps blood flowing through the veins. So whenever you shower, you should always finish with cold water, and rinse your legs and feet thoroughly. After a long day on your feet, it helps to put your feet up. Leaning your legs up against a wall or putting them up on cushions can help the blood circulate more easily.
Tip 2: Move around as much as possible
Movement is very important for preventing varicose veins. As a rule, you should try to maximise the amount of running and walking you do, and minimise your time spent sitting and standing. Endurance sports such as jogging, swimming, cycling and cross-country skiing are particularly effective.
But all forms of exercise promote blood circulation and make use of your leg muscles, which helps keep your blood moving.
Tip 3: Eat healthily
Diet is another big factor when it comes to preventing varicose veins. Eating a healthy, balanced diet reduces the risk of varicose veins by eliminating the “wrong” kinds of fats and helping you shed excess weight. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, rapeseed oil and nuts, are important because they increase the elasticity of the veins.
It’s also important to make sure that you drink enough water.
Tip 4: Wear the right clothing
Overly restrictive clothes, such as tight jeans, socks or tights, are not ideal. High-heeled shoes also obstruct the flow of blood in your legs. Everyday shoes or trainers are better choices.
