Varicose veins develop when blood vessels, especially in the lower body, become weak and begin to leak. They are an uncomfortable cosmetic problem that also causes pain to the affected individual. Varicose veins are caused by factors that can be managed while others are beyond our control. If you have persistent bulging veins that do not seem to go away, you should consider seeking medical attention. Syed Bokhari, MD, FACC, is a Riverside varicose veins specialist. Book an appointment online today.
Below are some remedies you could apply at home to treat varicose veins.
Exercises
Varicose veins develop when there is a problem with the body’s circulatory problem. Blood fails to travel from the leg veins to the heart and collects in pools as a result. Regular exercises may be one of the most effective home remedies that will regulate blood pressure and improve blood flow. You can try cycling instead of using your car, walking, or swimming as basic exercises.
Diet
Foods with too much salt and sodium increase the retention of water in the body. In the long run, this increases the chances of developing varicose veins. Additionally, straining during constipation may damage nerves and cause bulging. Therefore, it is important to include foods that lower water retention, such as potatoes, leafy vegetables, and fish. Also, foods like fiber to prevent constipation are necessary.
Change to Non-Restrictive Wear
Varicose veins occur as a result of poor blood flow in the body. Thus, wearing trousers that are too tight could further hinder proper flow and damage blood vessels. The type of shoes will also facilitate blood flow. Specialists recommend flat shoes for people with varicose veins.
Compression Socks
Venous insufficiency is a condition where a patient’s blood vessels do not have valves to prevent backflow of blood. Compression stockings apply pressure and facilitate blood flow to the heart, thereby preventing too much accumulation. You can buy one from a pharmacy, or the doctor can prescribe one for you.
Flavonoids
Flavonoid is contained in foods and helps facilitate the flow of blood. Additionally, it helps reduce blood pressure making blood vessels relax and reduce the severity of varicose veins. Therefore, patients with varicose veins should increase their intake of foods rich in flavonoids to keep blood flowing and prevent accumulation around the legs. They include vegetables, citrus fruits, and garlic.
Massage
Massage helps relax muscles and improve the circulation of blood. Gently massage the legs to keep blood moving. This will prevent blood accumulation in pools reducing the density of varicose veins. However, you should be careful with how much pressure you use as excess pressure increases damage rather than help.
Elevate your Legs
Elevating your legs to reach the heart’s level improves the circulation of blood. This makes it easier for blood to flow to the heart instead of accumulating down below due to gravity.
A lot of people have testified to improvements after using various home remedies to treat varicose veins. However, if you do not note an improvement, seek medical attention. Syed Bokhari, MD, FACC performs a complete diagnosis to determine the cause of your problem and begins treatment. Some procedures take less than an hour to recover. Book an appointment online today for customized care.