The U.S. National Library of Medicine defines varicose veins as swollen, enlarged veins appearing on the surface of the skin in twisted bundles. These blue or dark purple veins develop because the heart stops functioning properly and blood pools in affected veins. Varicose veins often appear on the backs of the calves and on the inside of the legs. Most cases of varicose veins appear in women over the age of 50. Varicose vein remedies range from lifestyle changes to surgery.
Diet and Weight Loss
The National Women's Health Information Center says that one of the risk factors for varicose veins is excess weight. Overweight people place a lot of pressure on the legs, reducing circulation and leaving them susceptible to varicose vein development. So, one of the first varicose vein remedies includes lifestyle changes leading to weight loss, which can decrease the veins' visibility on the limbs. A healthy diet composed primarily of fruits and vegetables helps overweight people lose weight in conjunction with an exercise routine. As little as 30 minutes of brisk walking, five days a week, can improve varicose veins.
Clothing and Shoes
"The Doctors Book of Home Remedies," published by the editors of Prevention magazine, says that varicose vein remedies include choosing clothes and shoes that don't exacerbate this condition. Medical supply stores and drug stores sell support hose particularly made for people with varicose veins. People should avoid wearing high heels or cowboy boots on a daily basis because of the pressure these shoes place on the legs. Tight-fitting clothes, like girdles and tight jeans, also cause blood to pool in the legs. At the end of the day, people should also elevate their legs above the heart to promote circulation, especially on days when they wear heels or boots. "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies" suggests using pillows, ottomans or a tilted bed to elevate the legs.
Laser Surgery
Varicose veins cause aching pain in the limbs that sometimes requires medical intervention. For severe cases of varicose veins, the National Women's Health Information Center says that laser surgery is a medical remedy. The Health Information Center says that laser surgical treatments take 15 to 20 minutes to complete by sending bursts of lights to the veins. Many patients need two to five treatments to remedy this condition, depending on how severe their varicose veins are. People can resume regular activity right after their laser surgery session.
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