If you have visible, raised veins on your legs, you’re probably living with varicose veins. These twisted, enlarged veins aren’t just problematic because they affect the appearance of your legs. They can also cause discomfort and contribute to more serious health problems.

Fortunately, at Vascular & Interventional Associates in Crestview Hills, Kentucky, our expert vascular surgeons and vein specialists offer a number of treatment options for varicose veins. We can help ease any discomfort, reduce vein visibility on your legs, and protect your overall vascular health.

But you shouldn’t have to wait until varicose veins become problematic to keep your legs their healthiest. Here, we’ve gathered our top five tips for reducing varicose veins.

1. Get moving
When you exercise, you encourage blood circulation through your legs. And the good news is that you don’t need to do an intense workout to reap this benefit. Consistent low-intensity exercise like walking, yoga, swimming, or biking is enough to get your blood moving.

2. Watch what you eat
Obesity heightens your risk for varicose veins. Adjusting your diet — alongside exercising regularly — can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight to shrink this risk. More fiber and potassium and less sodium in your diet can help you improve your vascular health.

3. Mix up your wardrobe
Tight-fitting clothes can compromise your body’s ability to circulate blood the way it should. Try to avoid clothing that feels overly restrictive, like pants that are too tight around your waist or calves.

While too-tight clothes restrict blood flow in one specific area, it can be helpful to apply consistent pressure across your legs. If you’ve had any discomfort from veins in your legs, try wearing compression stockings. These help by applying even pressure to the surface of your leg, making it easier for your veins to move blood up to your heart.

Also, shoes can affect your vascular health, including your body’s ability to pump blood from the lower extremities back to your heart. Opt for flat, supportive shoes whenever possible.

4. Put your feet up
Elevating your feet makes it easier for your veins to move blood up and out of your legs. If you know you’ll be sitting for a while, prop up your feet to support vascular health in your legs.

5. Take breaks
Standing or sitting for long periods can put extra strain on your veins. Try to get up and move every hour or so to promote circulation in your legs. Also, try not to sit for too long with your legs crossed because this can further restrict blood flow.

With these tips, you can ease strain on the veins in your legs. And if you do experience discomfort or see visible veins you want to get rid of, our team is here to help. Contact Vascular & Interventional Associates by phone, or book your appointment with us online.