Take control of varicose veins
If you have achy, tired legs or swollen ankles these could be an early warning sign of varicose veins.A healthy blood supply delivers oxygen, glucose and nutrients around the body for tissues and organs to function properly. But the veins in legs, which return blood to the heart for re-oxygenation, have a particular problem: they have to work hard against the force of gravity! To help them do this they have valves which, in healthy veins, shunt the blood upwards.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins affect around 1 in 2 adults, more often women than men, and there is often a hereditary link. They are caused by the valves in leg veins collapsing. When the valves collapse the blood pools and the vein can become dilated and twisted. In the worst cases, if left untreated, varicose eczema can develop – dry, itchy skin resulting from poor circulation to the area – and this can lead in turn to ulceration. Pregnancy and being overweight both increase the risk of varicose veins as pressure bears down on the veins in the groin area. Haemorrhoids (also called piles) are varicose veins in the area of the rectum.Top Comfort Tips
- Support stockings can help to keep legs comfortable and reduce the progression of the problem. These are available from chemists or department store hosiery sections.
- Elevate your legs whenever possible. Putting up your feet for 10 minutes several times daily, or adding a wedge or pillow under the bottom of the mattress at night can help.
- Exercise is important as the natural working of the leg muscles massages veins keeping them working well. Walking briskly on a daily basis is ideal. However, avoid crossing your legs or standing around all day – shop assistants are particularly prone to varicose vein problems! If you do need to stay standing do discrete exercising rising on to your toes several times to exercise calf muscles.
Nutrition Tips for Healthy Veins
Keeping blood thinned and flowing is a priority. Blood flow can be improved by eating oily fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines, two or three times weekly. Garlic is another potent agent to improve blood flow: one clove daily in cooking is ideal. Garlic, onions and ginger also help to break down scar tissue in varicose veins. Drinking enough water is also wise: around 1.5 - 2 litres of water daily.Eating sufficient fruits and vegetables is particularly important for healthy veins. A minimum of five portions daily is recommended: two portions with each meal is easy when you think about read more
