Preventing varicose veins

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.
Varicose veins are irregular and wiggly deformities under the skin that occur primarily in the legs. They affect both women and men, and those who have them are generally genetically predisposed to this condition. Cases where the veins are only slightly dilated are referred to as spider veins, and people who have them generally consider them to be unattractive. Varicose veins, on the other hand, can lead to health problems such as tense or swollen legs and blood clots. And once the condition has set in it can only be treated with surgery. It therefore makes a lot of sense to apply preventive measures. 



Cold for the veins

Cold water boosts circulation and causes stagnant blood in the veins to move again. For this reason we recommend hot and cold showers or splashes of cold water, which can easily be included in your daily hygiene habits.

Sports for the legs

Endurance sports that are challenging for the legs help to avoid varicose veins. Suitable forms include cycling, jogging, swimming and cross-country skiing. Sports like tennis and weight training that require lengthy standing and quick sudden phases of movement are less advisable in this regard.

More movement in the office

Anyone who works in an office knows what it's like. People tend to sit for hours in the same position, looking at a computer screen. A few simple tricks can put some zest into our everyday office life.

Healthful diet

We recommend that you watch your weight because extra kilos can easily lead to varicose veins. Drink lots of water and aim for a healthful and balanced diet. You can also use omega-3 fatty acids to improve vein elasticity.

Proper clothing

Do not wear overly tight clothing – especially pants – and avoid socks and stockings that cut into the flesh. And consider wearing your high heels less often.
In the event of further health-related questions, SWICA customers can contact the santé24 telemedicine service free of charge on +41 44 404 86 86. A telemedicine practice licence allows santé24 physicians to provide additional medical services in cases that are suited to a telemedicine approach. SWICA customers can also use the BENECURA medical app to carry out a digital SymptomCheck and receive recommendations about what to do next. During a subsequent phone call with santé24, customers can decide for themselves whether to release their information from SymptomCheck to santé24.