If your family has a history of varicose veins, there may be help available to you to potentially avoid developing them. This isn’t always possible, though. In fact, there is no proven way to prevent varicose veins from occurring in some people. If you already have them, though, you may be able to take steps to reduce the risk that the veins will worsen – this is best done, though, as soon as possible. The longer you have them, the more intense they are likely to be and the worse they will get over time.

What Can You Do Now?

There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing varicose veins as well as steps you can take to prevent them from worsening. Consider these steps:

• Give your body variety in movement. That is, avoid standing for long periods of time on a regular basis. Also reducing sitting for long prods of time on a regular basis. Instead, take breaks to move around in between.
• Avoid crossing your legs when you are sitting. This can worsen varicose veins in some people.
• If you are sitting down, try to keep your legs raised including when you are sleeping. On some occasions, try to raise your feet above the level of your heart to promote good blood flow.
• Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to improve blood flow to this area and reduce pressure on your veins.
• If you wear high heels, minimize how much you wear them. These can hurt your veins. Instead, lower heels can actually help to tone your calf muscles and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. In toned muscles, blood moves through the veins easily.
• If you are beginning to develop them, or are overweight, wear compression stockings. Your doctor may recommend these. These add more pressure to the legs and encourage better blood flow. They also help to keep the blood from pooling in the veins. You’ll benefit from this if you have any swelling in your legs.

Most importantly, work with a varicose vein doctor for treatment options. Chances are good you’ll find treatment options available to you. Come in to see the best varicose vein doctor in Manhattan, New York to learn more about your veins, your treatment options, and what you can do to reduce risks.