Preventing Vein Disease

Though genetic issues cannot be prevented, lifestyle changes can certainly help halt or hold off the development of new vein issues.

At home self-care is key. The more you do the better your results are likely to be. Let’s take a look at some ways to help your circulatory system stay healthy.

Manage Your Weight

Obesity can put you at risk for a number of illnesses, vein disease being one of them.

While the specific links between obesity and vein diseases are not understood, some studies have shown a correlation between carrying extra weight and an elevated risk for vein diseases as well as their associated health problems.

One theory states that carrying too much weight (fat) adds extra pressure on the circulatory system. This is especially true in the pelvic region, where the veins from our legs re-enter the main body cavity. When these veins are compressed it can increase the pressure on the valves within the upper veins of the leg, leading to the failure of those valves which results in circulatory issues in our legs aka varicose and spider veins.

Put Your Feet Up!

Elevating your legs allows gravity to help your blood flow back to your heart. It is recommended to do for 15 minutes two to three times a day. Making sure your legs are above your heart.

Work Out

If you don’t use it you lose it. The adage is true! Staying active is the best thing you can do to prevent or minimize vein problems. Muscle builds and supports the circulatory system. The act of walking naturally expands and contracts the leg muscles pumping the blood throughout our bodies. Walk more, sit less.

Smoking

Just say no. Smoking narrows the blood vessels. This restricts blood supply even further. It is detrimental to vein disease.

Clothing

Avoid constrictive clothing, especially shoes with high heels as these could lead to vein disorders.  Do not wear spanks, girdles, garters or socks that have tight elastic bands. Now, this does not mean compression hosiery. Compression socks are specifically designed to help the veins rather than hinder. Modern compression hosiery is now made out of materials and in styles that makes it fashionable and attractive for anyone to wear. Quality compression hosiery provides pressure to protect the veins in our legs and help feel better and less tired at the end of a day.

If you start to see any hint of spider or varicose veins you will want to pay attention to the advice above. If you see it start to advance come into West Florida Vein Center in Safety Harbor, Florida serving the Tampa Bay region and have Dr. Mark Zuzga evaluate your condition so that you get the best possible results. www.westfloridaveincenter.com or call (727) 712-3233.