Varicose veins form when blood in the legs and feet fail to circulate properly. This leads to large, twisted veins. For many, they are nothing more than an aesthetic concern, but for others they can cause pain and discomfort or even more serious complications like ulcers and blood clots. There are a number of remedies to help your varicose veins.

Lifestyle Suggestions

Exercising regularly improves circulation. Maintaining a healthy weight will also benefit this condition. In addition, these measures will reduce the risk of complications like blood clots.

Compression Stockings

Compression stockings--often the first line of treatment--can be very effective for varicose veins. They exert pressure on your veins and muscles, which encourages better blood flow. You can buy them over-the-counter or get a prescription from your doctor. The amount of compression varies and he can offer guidance on the most appropriate stockings for you.

Procedures

Certain procedures can target the damaged veins. They include sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, laser surgeries and removing the vein surgically. These treatments cannot guarantee varicose veins will never come back.

Cosiderations for Procedures

The Mayo Clinic advises caution when looking for varicose vein treatments. Be wary of treatments that claim to be painless or permanent. Insurance policies do not typically cover procedures for cosmetic purposes only.

Natural Treatments

The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests the following treatments might help varicose veins. They include supplements like rutin, grape seed extract, horse chestnut, gotu kola, butcher's broom, bilberry, arnica montana, calcerea carbonica, hamamelis and pulsatilla. A cold compress made with witch hazel and yarrow tea might ease discomfort. Talk to your doctor before using any natural supplements.

Source:

The Mayo Clinic

The University of Maryland Medical Center