The problems associated with varicose veins can be more than skin deep. It is understandable once you have sought treatment for venous disease, you want to take steps to reduce your risk for recurrence. Listed below are 4 crucial tactics to maximize your treatment and reduce the chance of future varicose veins.
- Know your risk factors.
The exact cause of varicose veins is not always known, but a genetic predisposition to weak vein and vein valves does play a significant role. In other words, if you have a direct relative that has experienced varicose veins, you are at a higher risk of developing varicose veins and having them reoccur after treatment. Puberty, pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, menopause, and birth controls can also increase your risk of recurrence. In addition, the natural aging process, obesity and prolonged standing or sitting are other factors that can weaken your veins and vein valves. Be mindful of these contributing elements and work towards reducing your risk for recurrence.
- Keep your feet {and legs} happy.
When in doubt, go for flats and avoid wearing heels whenever possible. Flats allow your calf muscle to fully contract promoting circulation in the leg. In addition, if your job requires prolonged periods of sitting or standing, give yourself 10 to 15 minutes at the end of the day to put your feet up and allow gravity to work against any blood that has pooled in your veins. If you have a number of risk factors for developing varicose veins such as family history and extended periods of standing or sitting, consider the long-term use of compression stockings to help reduce pressure in your veins and lower your risk of a recurrence of varicose veins after treatment. Your legs will thank you!
- Keep moving.
Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight as well as promote muscles in the legs to foster good circulation. Low impact exercises such as swimming and biking are great options for mitigating your risk of recurrence.
- Wear sunscreen.
Overexposure to the sun is sometimes associated with the surfacing of spider veins, so it is a smart idea to make this a regular part of your routine. Limiting sun exposure reduces your risk to a number of health concerns and can help promote healthy veins.
It is unrealistic to believe your legs will be completely free from spider and varicose veins for life after treatment. You can expect a noticeable difference in your legs following the procedure. It is important to recognize varicose vein procedures can only treat those diseased veins that are visible, but do not permanently alter the venous system to prevent future surfacing of varicose or spider veins.
Premier Vein Clinics has served East Tennessee since 2004 and performed well over 10,000 vein treatments.
Love your legs again! Start by requesting an appointment at Premier Vein Clinics.