Varicose Vein Therapy at Home
Treating Leg Veins with Home-Based and Self-Care Therapies
Dec 21, 2008
Varicose veins occur when there are defective valves in the veins and weakened vein walls. In normal veins, one-way valves in the veins help keep blood flowing efficiently towards the heart. However, when these valves become faulty, blood pools within the veins, building pressure and causing the veins to become weakened, twisted and enlarged.
Patients with varicose veins have many medical treatment options, depending on the severity of the condition. Most patients will also be advised to practice home-care treatment aimed at improving circulation to complement their medical varicose vein therapy. Here are some proven home-based therapies.
Varicose Vein Stockings
Support stockings or compression stockings work very well for most patients because they put external pressure on the legs and help the veins circulate blood more efficiently. When blood flows smoothly, there will be a marked reduction in the veins’ bulging and twisted appearance.
These days, compression stockings come in different styles, lengths and colors – making them more appealing. They are easily available at pharmacies. However, be sure to buy support stockings that fit properly. They should be strong but not too tight.
Exercises to Reduce Varicose Veins
Leg elevation exercise – raising the legs above the heart level – for 10 to 15 minutes, three to four times each day can help improve blood circulation in the veins. You can do leg elevation by lying down with the legs resting on three to four pillows.
Other exercises that help the blood keep moving will be useful as well. Walking, bicycling, swimming or even dancing can all encourage good blood circulation and strengthen the heart at the same time. Exercises also help reduce excessive body weight, another contributing factor in the development of varicose veins.
Healthy Eating
Eating a good and balanced diet is a good way to lose weight as well. Choose high-fiber and low-fat, low-sugar and low-salt food choices. Include plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meat and white poultry in the daily diet. Cutting down on salt also reduces fluid retention and swelling in the legs and ankles – areas susceptible to the development of varicose veins.
Suitable Clothing and Shoes
Don’t wear clothes that can restrict blood flow. So avoid tight clothes around the waist, legs or groin. High heels are not suitable either. Opt for low-heeled shoes as these work leg muscles more, improving circulation.
Other Ways to Encourage Blood Flow
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time. Walk around every half an hour to keep the blood moving.
- Avoid sitting with the legs crossed.
Natural Medicine
In recent years, horse chestnut seed extract has also been used effectively in treating conditions associated with varicose veins. The herb extract helps reduce swelling, pain and discomfort caused by leg veins. However, consult your doctor first before starting on any herbal supplement to ease varicose veins.
In addition to medical treatment, patients with varicose veins should practice routines such as wearing compression stockings, exercising regularly, eating healthily and avoiding tight clothing to boost venous circulation. While these home-based therapies may not be able to remove varicose veins completely, they certainly can provide a lot of relief.
References:
WebMd.com – Varicose Veins Topic Overview
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