Conservative & Preventive Measures
Conservative treatment methods are designed to minimize or relieve symptoms and to slow down the development of new varicose veins. They are important adjuncts to all other forms of medical treatment options.
- Wearing graduated compression stockings: The use of compression stockings is a simple and inexpensive way to help improve leg circulation by reducing the pooling of blood in the legs caused by varicose veins. Although they won't eliminate varicose veins, compression stockings can help alleviate symptoms caused by them such as aching, heaviness and swelling. Compression stockings increases the long-term effectiveness of all vein treatments.
- Regularly elevating the legs: Elevating your legs helps keep the blood from pooling in your lower legs, reduces swelling and improves blood flow to the rest of the body.
- Avoiding long periods of standing or sitting: Sitting or standing for long periods of time puts added stress on the veins in your legs.
- Exercising and controlling your weight: Walking, bicycling, and swimming are recommended to help reduce symptoms caused by varicose veins.
- Wearing comfortably fitted clothing: Adequate fluid intake and wearing comfortable clothing particularly when traveling for long periods of time.
