What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, irregularly shaped veins that most commonly appear in the legs. Varicose veins in the legs affect about one in five adults, and are more common in women.
Most frequent causes
There is no single factor that causes varicose veins; there are usually several factors that may accelerate, if not cause, the development of varicose veins. Although, genetics plays an important role, there are a number of risk factors related to lifestyle and habits.
How to treat them
Maintaining your overall fitness, both nutritionally and physically, is most essential to preventing varicose veins from developing. Adopting healthy habits is an important part of treating the discomforts related to varicose veins.
Exercises against varicose veins
Swimming, biking, golf, dance and walking are highly recommended in the prevention and arresting of varicose veins. It's best to do these exercises at least three times a week.
Restoring your harmony
Yoga's stretching and relaxation techniques can be particularly beneficial for varicose veins. Certain positions, such as the Plow and the Candle, promote circulation and the drainage of blood from the legs because the legs are raised above the head.
Steps against varicose veins
Massage is an ancient curing art (cultures have used this technique since 3000 BC). The following exercises may be very useful in preventing and relieving discomforts brought on by varicose veins.
Do-it-yourself blood circulation massages
Do-in massage techniques may help to improve your blood circulation. This complementary therapy is practiced gently and constantly to provide natural relief from discomforts brought on by varicose veins.
Stimulating blood return
When the one-way valves in the veins stop functioning properly, blood stagnates in the veins producing venous insufficiency. There are a number of exercises and massages that can help to relieve varicose veins.
Manual lymphatic drainage
This self-massage is based on manual lymphatic drainage techniques which help to purify the blood and assist its circulation. The massage also tones and shapes the legs.
Decongestive reflexology
This therapy is based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet that correspond to the body's organs and glands. Stimulating and applying pressure to the feet may be effective in helping to relieve symptoms of varicose veins.
Hydrotherapy for spider veins
Hydrotherapy reactivates the body's energy, helps to eliminate toxins and stimulates the blood circulation, in addition to relaxing and harmonizing the body and mind. This is why it is an effective treatment for varicose veins, when the symptoms first appear.
Home treatments
If you suffer from varicose veins there are a number of simple and accessible complementary treatments that may be beneficial for accompanying regular medical treatment.
Natural relief
Humans have used plants for their therapeutic properties since ancient times, as well as essential oils, made with herbs. These herbs and oils are for topical use and can help in the treatment of varicose veins.
Food for healthy veins
A poor diet can lead to overweight and constipation, two factors that may complicate varicose veins. However, eating a balanced diet can help to fight this ailment.
Supporting vitamins and minerals
To help prevent and fight varicose veins you should eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support the digestive and circulatory systems.