Varicose Veins - Lower Your Risk

No woman wants varicose veins but up to 55% of all women develop and suffer from them. There are some genetic factors involved, but there are some things you can do to lower your risk of developing varicose veins and spider veins.

When blood is returning to the heart from the lower body, it has to travel back up the veins. Veins have flaps that keep the blood from flowing backwards as it goes up the legs. However, if the flaps are weak, blood can flow backwards and collect in the vein. When the blood pools and enlarges the vein, it can cause a varicose or spider vein to appear. Spider veins on the face are often caused by sun exposure.

There are many contributing factors that cause varicose veins, such as hormonal changes, increasing age, pregnancy and heredity. But because your risk of having varicose veins also increases with being overweight and a sedentary lifestyle, there are some changes you can take that may help.

* Exercise regularly. This will improve circulation. Walking is excellent exercise.
* Control your weight
* Elevate your legs when resting as much as possible.
* Do not cross your legs when sitting.
* Do not stand or sit for long periods of time. If you do have to sit for long periods, take occasional breaks to get up and walk around.
* Wear elastic support stockings to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
* Eat a low-salt diet rich in high-fiber foods. Too much salt can cause legs and feet to swell. Fiber reduces the incidence of constipation, which also contributes to devolopment of varicose veins.