While it’s impossible to completely avoid varicose and spider veins, there are certain lifestyle modifications that can reduce their likelihood.

Here are eight ways you can help to prevent these unsightly veins from developing or worsening.

Causes of Varicose and Spider Veins

Varicose and spider veins occur when diseased or damaged valves allow blood to flow backward and result in dilated veins.

Genetics, age, gender, obesity, pregnancy, and increased estrogen levels have all been linked to the occurrence of varicose and spider veins.

8 Ways to Prevent Varicose and Spider Veins

1. Take Breaks from Sitting and Standing for Prolonged Periods of Time

Every 30 minutes, patients should walk, stretch, elevate their legs, or shift weight from one leg to another to promote healthy blood flow.

2. Exercise Regularly

Exercise that focuses on the legs and lower extremities helps to improve muscle tone, circulation, and vein strength.

Some options include: walking, running, swimming, stair climbing, and bicycling.

3. Put Your Feet Up

While once considered impolite, it’s now encouraged to sit back and elevate your legs to combat varicose and spider veins.

In doing so, individuals take pressure off their lower extremities and promote blood to flow back towards the heart.

4. Maintain Your Weight

A steady body weight alleviates unnecessary stress from being placed on the legs.

5. Watch Your Diet – Increase Fiber and Reduce Sodium Intake

These dietary adjustments help prevent constipation and strain, which can contribute to varicose veins.

6. Apply a Daily Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen and Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat

To reduce facial spider veins, shield your face from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

7. Wear Flats

While high-heels can make your legs look and feel good for a special event or occasion, flats can tone calf muscles and thereby enhance circulation.

8. Use Compression Stockings as Advised by Your Physician

Compression stockings are often the first line of treatment for varicose and spider veins. When worn correctly, they can improve swelling and possibly prevent clots from forming in the deeper veins of the legs.

If you’re interested in treating spider veins or varicose veins with a permanent solution, sclerotherapy is the conventional option.

If you want to know more about preventing varicose veins and spider veins, call the Vein Center of Maryland to schedule an appointment.

We are conveniently located in Westminster, Eldersburg, Baltimore, Hunt Valley and Bel Air.

We also service Ellicott City and Columbia in Howard County.