Quite simply put, varicose veins aren’t pleasant. They can be uncomfortably painful and also cause unsightly lumps and bumps in your legs. Most people assume that varicose veins are little more than a cosmetic ailment, however they often have other serious symptoms. Usually people don’t associate these with varicose veins, but there are important signals to watch out for, so it’s always important to keep an eye on swollen ankles and feet, muscle cramps, and dry skin.
Are you clued in about varicose veins and their treatment? To help highlight just how important it is to keep a check up on your veins and to know how to spot them, we’ve come up with a list of 10 things most people don’t know about varicose veins.
- You don’t have to be old or pregnant. Varicose veins are often thought of as something only pregnant women and old people get. This just isn’t true; they affect all ages, even teenagers and young adults.
- Don’t worry about sitting down. Contrary to popular belief, sitting for long periods does not cause varicose veins. Nor does crossing your legs. The myth that symptoms will be worsened by standing for prolonged periods is also not true – it could actually help relieve some of your symptoms!
- Keep exercising. Exercise has somehow been given a bad reputation for causing and aggravating varicose veins. Again, this is just another myth and it can actually help you to deal with them. It reduces blood pressure, meaning there’s less pressure on the valves in the veins and reducing the chance of damaging them.
- Not just a women’s issue. Sorry guys, but you’re just as likely to be bothered by varicose veins as the fairer sex are. Varicose veins don’t discriminate!
- Watch your weight. There are so many good reasons why it is key to keep an eye on your weight, and varicose veins are just one of them. If you gain weight, you will increase your risk. Those extra pounds will be adding more pressure on your veins, which will cause them to lose their elasticity. This will then lead to a backflow of blood and pooling within the veins.
- …but baby weight is okay. Varicose veins during pregnancy aren’t actually because of the extra weight from carrying the baby. They’re a result of the changes in hormones. These different hormones cause the valves in the veins to open up and lead to bulging of the veins.
- Shoes can help. Wearing the correct pair of shoes can make all the difference. Low heeled shoes will tone your calf muscle, helping with the circulation of blood through the veins in your leg.
- Keep clothes loose. If your pants or underwear is too tight, you could be encouraging varicose veins to develop. Tight clothes are tourniquets that will only prevent the flow of blood.
- Lie with your feet high. One great way of fighting varicose veins is by making the foot of your bed higher. Ideally, to reduce pressure, your feet should be elevated so they’re higher than your heart. This isn’t as hard as you might at first think; there’s no need to tilt your bed! You could just lie with your feet on top of a pile of cushions or place some phone books under the end of mattress.
- Stay away from heat. One of the best natural treatments for varicose veins is to keep them cool. A great way to relieve any swelling and pain is to take a cold shower.
Now that you we’ve busted a few of the myths behind varicose veins, you will hopefully be able to spot the signs of varicose veins early on or find it easier to treat the symptoms that have already been bothering you.
Do you or someone you know have leg pain caused by varicose veins? Did you know that relief starts with a phone call to us? We will help you understand your options, give us a call today at 817-488-5170!