Pain and Discomfort from Varicose Veins?

Regular exercise encourages better blood circulation in the legs, which helps to push along the blood that has collected in the veins. Exercise also helps to lower blood pressure which can be another contributing factor.  Low-impact exercises help to get the calf muscles working without excessive strain.  Such exercises include swimming, walking, cycling and yoga.

2. Compression stockings

Compression stockings are available from most pharmacies and can help by applying pressure to the legs, helping the muscles and veins to move blood toward the heart and reducing the pain and aching.

3. Changes in your diet

Potassium-high foods, such as almonds and pistachio nuts, lentils and white beans, potatoes, leafy vegetables, salmon and tuna, can help varicose veins by reducing water retention in the body while salty or sodium-rich foods can cause the body to retain water, so cutting down on salty food can minimize water retention.  Foods with fiber help to keep the bowels moving and prevent constipation which can also be important, as straining can aggravate damaged valves or make them worse.  Shedding any excess weight can reduce the pressure on the veins and alleviate swelling and discomfort.

4. Eat more flavonoids

Adding foods that contain flavonoids may also help a person to shrink their varicose veins.  This is because flavonoids improve blood circulation, which will keep the blood flowing, and make it less likely to pool in the veins. They also help to reduce blood pressure in the arteries and can relax blood vessels, all of which can reduce varicose veins.  Foods include: vegetables (including garlic, onions, bell peppers, spinach and broccoli), citrus fruits, grapes, cherries, apples and blueberries. 

5. Avoid high heels and tight clothing

Wearing tight-fitting clothes can restrict blood flow. A person may find that their circulation is improved by wearing loose-fitting clothes that do not restrict the blood supply to the lower body.  Wearing flat shoes instead of high heels may also help with varicose veins in the legs.

6. Keep the legs elevated

Keeping the legs elevated, ideally at the same height as the heart or above it will help to improve circulation. This reduces the pressure in the leg veins and gravity will help the blood to flow smoothly back to the heart.  This is especially important where there is a lot sitting down or standing for long periods of time.

7. Massage

Gently massaging the affected areas can help to keep the blood moving through the veins but always avoid pressing directly onto the veins, however, as this may damage fragile tissues.

8. Keep moving

If sitting for any length of time, aim to get up and move around or change position frequently to keep the blood flowing smoothly.  Avoid sitting with crossed legs, as this can further restrict blood flow to the legs and feet, which may add to circulation problems.