5 Common Habits That Can Lead to Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a common and often painful condition that affects the legs. They occur when your blood vessels become twisted and enlarged, causing them to bulge out of their surrounding tissue. To prevent them, consider getting a Tomball varicose veins treatment that can permanently block off blood flow to the affected blood vessels. You can also make various lifestyle adjustments to prevent them from occurring. These changes are particularly crucial if you are at a greater risk of developing varicose veins. Below are five common habits you can avoid to prevent the occurrence or recurrence of varicose veins.

1. Smoking and Using Other Tobacco Products

Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for developing varicose veins. It can also increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. Smoking causes devastating effects on your blood vessels and lowers collagen production, reducing elasticity. These effects make you susceptible to developing varicose veins. Being a passive smoker can increase your risk of varicose veins and impaired venous circulation. 

2. Obesity

Obesity is also a risk factor for varicose veins and other health problems like diabetes and heart disease. It causes an increased amount of pressure in your veins. This increased pressure may weaken vein walls, allowing them to become enlarged. This is possible if you carry the extra weight on your belly, which could exert pressure on your lower pelvic area. If this happens, there might be insufficient blood flow from your legs to your heart, causing a shortage of oxygen needed for cellular metabolism.

3. Sitting or Standing for Long Periods

Standing or sitting for extended periods can lead to varicose veins because the pressure on your legs builds up and causes blood vessels to dilate. When seated, ensure to elevate your legs on a flat smooth surface. Avoid sitting with your legs crossed or your knees bent, as this could restrict blood flow. Also, avoid standing in one place for long periods, as this can increase pressure on your calf muscles and lower leg vein, causing them to become more prominent.

4. Wearing High Heels

Wearing high heels can cause varicose veins, bunions, and hammer toes. A recent study found that nearly one in three women experience foot pain due to wearing high heels every day. This footwear changes your body mechanics, allowing proper blood flow to your legs.

When wearing high heels, your body weight shifts to the front of your toes, contracting your calf muscles responsible for proper blood flow. These negative effects can cause vein problems. To prevent this from occurring, ensure you wear proper footwear with low heels.

5. Inactivity 

Being inactive or not exercising can increase your risk of developing varicose veins. Being physically active helps blood flow through your body more efficiently and prevents the buildup of pressure on your veins. Exercises such as walking, swimming, or jogging can help your body stay active. It would help if you also tried adding some new exercises into your routine so that there is always something new for you to achieve every week.

Varicose veins can cause pain and discomfort, but they are treatable. To prevent varicose veins from happening, you should avoid the habits mentioned above. Eating healthier meals rich in potassium can prevent various health conditions often linked to varicose veins. Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis to determine your risk of developing this condition and the preventative measures you should take.