Holiday Tips to Help Prevent Varicose Veins

It’s that wonderful time of year when many of us travel, go to parties, and spend extra time with our friends and family. But along with the month-long festivities comes a change in lifestyle that might make us more susceptible to certain concerns: a couple of which are varicose veins and spider veins. Here are several tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle during the holidays, and while all varicose and spider veins cannot be prevented, these tips could go a long way in reducing your risk.

-- Exercise regularly. We do a lot of sitting and talking over the holidays. Even a daily walk will help your circulation and vein strength.

-- Give yourself short breaks. It is not good for your circulation to sit or stand for long periods of time. When standing, remember to shift your weight now and again. And if plan on sitting and visiting for an entire day, allow yourself breaks where you get up and take a short walk.

-- Elevate your legs when resting. If you are already prone to varicose and spider veins or if your legs begin to feel swollen, elevating your legs as much as possible while you are resting can help.

-- Avoid uncomfortable shoes. For women, avoid wearing high heels when possible. Flatter shoes will engage your calf muscles and help blood flow.

-- Avoid tight clothing. Of course we want to look good for our holiday parties, but try to avoid clothes that constrict at the waist, groin or legs.

-- Watch your weight. Some slight weight gain over the holidays may be inevitable, but excess weight puts pressure on your legs. Try to keep maintain your normal weight.

-- Watch your salt intake. A low-salt diet can help reduce the swelling that many experience with varicose veins.

-- Eat high-fiber foods. A diet that is high in fiber helps to promote a healthy digestive system and will reduce your risk of constipation which can cause varicose veins.

-- Wear sunscreen. Your legs are not the only place that can be effected by vein damage. Spider veins can form on the face, and protecting your skin from the sun will help prevent this.

Hopefully, this month is filled with many joyous occasions, but don’t forget about your health along the way. If you are feeling discomfort in your legs, or any swelling, itching, restlessness, etc. please don’t hesitate to contact us at 760-944-9263 or visit us at www.sdveininstitute.com.