Varicose veins are a common form of vein disease that affects nearly 50% of Americans over age 50. There is no way to prevent varicose veins from developing. However, there are numerous ways to keep the ones already there from becoming worse and to delay the development of new varicose veins. Dr. Jose Almeida, a vein specialist in Miami, tells you how.
What to do today to reduce the risk for varicose veins?
The factors that increase the risk for varicose veins include the following:
- Overweight or obesity
- Age
- Heredity
- Being sedentary
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Pregnancy
Some of these factors are unchangeable. For instance, being born with genes that predispose you to varicose veins is not something you can change. Other factors can be changed to lesson your risk for developing problem veins by making simple adjustments to your everyday life. Although changing a habit is easier said than done, you can make better choices for yourself to create a positive impact on your vein health.
Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise.
This tip is two-fold. Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly are both great for overall health and wellness including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke any countless other conditions. Additionally, doing these two things will also help you maintain a healthy weight or lose weight over time if you are overweight. (Being overweight also strains your veins.) Eat a diet rich in healthy fats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Aim to get 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
Take a break!
Many people sit or stand for hours on end at work or school. But doing either can be detrimental to your vein health. Sitting for long periods of time may cause blood to pool in the legs, especially if you cross your legs or bend your knees. Standing puts added strain on the veins and makes them work even harder. But there is a simple solution! Avoiding crossing your legs while sitting and make sure to take a break from sitting or standing every hour or so.
Change the way you dress.
If you are guilty of wearing clothes that are too tight, especially around your hips or groin, it is time to buy some clothes that fit. By wearing clothes that are too tight, you are cutting off the circulation in your lower body and making it more difficult for your veins to return blood to your heart. If your veins wear out, you may develop unsightly spider and varicose veins. Miami residents and others should also avoid wearing high heels. Stilettos and other high shoes lock your feet in unnatural positions that add to the stress of your leg veins. Stick to flat shoes for everyday wear and save the heels for special occasions.
Make an appointment to see a vein specialist in Miami.
Whether you already have visible varicose veins or not, it is always a good idea to get checked out by a specialist. A vascular doctor in Miami will be able to thoroughly examine your veins in a painless manner and work with you to create a care plan for vein disease treatment. Miami Vein Center is home to one of the best vein doctors in Miami. You can reach our board certified vascular surgeon Dr. Almeida and his caring medical staff by calling us at 305-851-7571. We’ll talk to you soon!