Varicose veins are swollen, bulging veins -- usually in the legs. They can make standing and other activities painful.
Although not all cases are preventable, the womenshealth.gov Web site suggests how to help thwart varicose veins:
- Apply sunscreen to your skin daily.
- Get regular exercise to help make your legs stronger and improve circulation. Concentrate on activities that benefit the legs.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Don't cross your legs, and elevate your legs when you can.
- Move around frequently, avoiding long periods of sitting or standing.
- Don't wear clothes that are too tight. Also avoid high-heeled shoes.
- Wear elastic support stockings.
- Eat more fiber to help prevent constipation, which can trigger varicose veins. Also, cut back on salt in your diet.
Health Tip: Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms within a deep vein, most often in the calf or thigh area.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers this list of risk factors that may increase the likelihood of DVT:
- Having had a pulmonary embolism or a previous case of deep vein thrombosis.
- Having had cancer that has spread.
- Having had another vein condition, such as varicose veins.
- Being a smoker.
- Taking estrogen.
- Being pregnant.
- Being obese.
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