Is it Possible to Prevent Varicose Veins?

You’ve likely seen plenty of people with varicose veins running down their legs, and you may have one or two yourself. Sometimes the veins look like purplish ropes that protrude from your skin. Is there any way to prevent these unsightly veins? The answer is no. 

Our board-certified radiologists with REDI Diagnostics Corp in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, treat many cases of varicose veins. We can eliminate them permanently. 

Why do I have varicose veins?

There are a number of reasons you may have varicose veins. Age and sex are two risk factors. The older you are, the more at risk you are for varicose veins. Just as your hair grows gray or thin and your skin becomes prone to wrinkles as you age, the valves that help move your blood through your body may become weak and malfunction so that blood collects in your veins. 

Women are more prone to varicose veins than men; pregnancy is a risk factor because of the extra pressure on your veins from added weight. Speaking of excess weight, being overweight or obese is another risk factor for varicose veins. The extra pressure on your vein walls can cause the valves to malfunction. 

An inactive, sedentary lifestyle can also produce varicose veins. Sitting for long periods during the day increases pressure in your veins and reduces blood circulation in your legs. 

Although you can’t completely prevent varicose veins, you can take some key steps to help lessen your risk and keep them from worsening if you do get them. 

Ways to help prevent varicose veins or ease symptoms 

Some risk factors for varicose veins are immutable, such as age and sex. However, there are ways to help prevent varicose veins and keep symptoms from worsening if you do have them. 

Maintain a normal weight

Now that you know being overweight or obese is a risk factor for varicose veins, if you need to lose excess pounds, you have another reason to do so. Varicose veins aren’t always just a cosmetic problem. Your legs may be swollen and painful. Staying at a healthy weight has many benefits, and keeping varicose veins at bay is one of them. 

Get regular exercise 

If you’re sedentary and don’t get enough exercise, your blood can’t circulate as it should, causing blood to pool in your veins. You’re also more likely to get heart disease and have other health problems. 

You’ve no doubt read that regular exercise has many health benefits. Choose a physical activity you like and can stick with, even if it’s just walking around your neighborhood. 

Don’t smoke

When you smoke, chemicals and carbon monoxide harm your circulatory system. Your blood can’t get the oxygen it needs, and your veins are damaged. 

Wear compression stockings

If you’re on your feet most of the day, wear compression stockings to keep your blood flowing up toward your heart from your legs. Your doctor can tell you what size is best for you. 

Elevate your legs when you can 

When you can, raise your legs above your heart for at least 15 minutes at a time. Prop pillows on an ottoman or your bed. This helps keep blood flowing normally and stops it from pooling in your legs. 

Our expert radiologists treat varicose veins every day. Call REDI Diagnostics Corp or book an appointment online today and say goodbye to painful varicose veins.