Author:
hardstone
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Date Posted: 11:36:55 12/26/09 Sat
Although varicose veins certainly lack popularity -- they are right down there with cellulite for the least desirable bodily attribute -- they are actually quite "popular" in that a great many people have them.Up to 30 million Americans have these ropey, bulging veins, usually on the legs. Women age 30 and older are most commonly affected, but no one is immune. Even Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones "can't get no satisfaction" -- he reportedly has calves crisscrossed by them.There are things you can do to reduce them:
Do regular exercise. Walking, running, cycling & swimming keep blood vessels healthy.
Stick to a high-fibre & low-salt diet. Kick off the high heels. Avoid tight-fitting clothings or undergarments that restrict blood flow at the waist, groin & legs (e.g. girdles, stockings & socks). If elastic stockings are recommended, wear them before getting out of bed in the morning. Don't leave legs crossed or bent for a long period. If work requires prolonged standing or sitting, move & stretch those legs, rotate ankles & wiggle the toes once in a while. Do leg stretching exercises daily. Raise legs above the level of the heart whenever possible. Rest those legs on pillows while sleeping. Stop smoking Although varicose veins aren't usually considered a significant health problem, they can make life miserable. "Varicose veins shouldn't be viewed as only a cosmetic concern," said Dr. Alan Hirsch, a specialist in vascular medicine at the University of Minnesota. Often, the discomfort over the veins' appearance is equalled by the aching pain they can cause, particularly after a long day of sitting or standing. In addition, the veins may signal a higher risk for other more serious blood vessel disorders.
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