Varicose veins are twisted and enlarged veins that usually occur in the legs or feet. People usually neglect to go for varicose vein treatment but its timely correction is very necessary. They are known to affect around 30% of the total population and generally appear dark purple and bulged out of the skin. This condition is the result of the dysfunctioning of vein valves which fail to push sufficient blood up from the legs.

It may be asymptomatic and can be a highly painful experience for some others. Generally, the vein pain is vague and dull in nature. It can be relieved by raising legs for time being but may return when the pressure gets built up again.

Can varicose veins disappear with exercise?

Do: Exercise mildly but regularly. Walking, swimming, cycling can also help in optimizing blood flow. Avoid standing and sitting for long periods.

Don’t: Over-straining the muscles, lifting heavy weights, high impact activities

What is the dietary consideration?

Do: Maintenance of a consistent diet with low sugar, less fat, or cholesterol. Add high fiber fruits and vegetables to your diet.

Don’t: Fad diets, sugary foods, and fatty junk food

When to go to seek medical help for varicose veins?

Do: Speak to your general practitioner and he/she will refer you to a vein specialist or Phlebologist. He/she will be conducting certain venous ultrasounds to determine the cause of the varicose veins and make a treatment plan.

Don’t: Don't fall prey to rumors. There is a great misconception that varicose veins are just unpleasant cosmetically or superficially and do not cause any discomfort. However, this condition is usually harmless by it can be the symptom of an underlying disease called Chronic Venous Insufficiency. So, it should not be neglected at all.

How and when to wear compression stockings?

Do: Wear medical-grade compression stocking as a supportive or management procedure for the primary varicose vein treatment.

Don’t: Choose fashion over medical-grade products.

What should be the lifestyle choices?

Do: Stay active and avoid sitting or standing for long hours. The best sitting position for varicose veins is to keep elevating the legs from time to time.

Don’t: Resting and staying inactive for long durations

What treatment to seek for varicose veins?

Do: Surgical stripping or other modern non-surgical, non-ablative treatment options with minimal invasion. The advantages of non-surgical varicose vein treatment are:

• The patient can return home within hours of performing the procedure
• High success rate
• More effective
• No hospital stay required
• No requirement of general anesthetic
• One can return to his normal routine within days

One should not skip physiotherapy for varicose veins maintenance.

Don’t: Neglect this condition and varicose veins exercises.