There are some conservative options for addressing varicose veins. Many of these include some reasonable lifestyle changes, such as:

• Changing your diet. Practicing portion control, choosing healthier food options, and dining out at restaurants less often are just a few of the ways you can change your diet. It’s no secret that weight loss can positively impact your overall health, but losing excess weight can also significantly reduce the pressure on the veins in your legs, resulting in improved blood flow.
• Exercising more. Whether it’s walking for just 20 minutes a few times a week or taking the stairs instead of the elevator at work, finding ways to increase your body’s movement can help the blood circulate in your legs and throughout your body.
• Alternating between standing or sitting often. Many people might be surprised to learn that prolonged periods of standing or sitting can negatively affect your vein health. Making a conscious decision to shift between sitting and standing greatly contributes to better blood circulation.
• Wearing looser-fitting clothing. Wearing tight clothes can hinder blood flow, especially in the groin, thigh, and waist areas. Clothing that allows you greater range of motion will not only add to your comfort level, but to your overall vein health, too.
• Using medical compression stockings. Medical stockings help relieve the pain and swelling experienced by many patients with varicose veins, especially for people whose work requires prolonged sitting or standing. These stockings require a prescription from your physician and are usually purchased at a medical supply store.

The short answer is: lifestyle changes need to play a part in every method of vein treatment. As for when lifestyle changes are the only treatment method needed depends on your individual condition and the pain associated with it. Consulting with your Center for Vein doctor is the only way to determine if lifestyle changes will be enough to manage your chronic venous insufficiency.

Altering some of the ways you live your life is never easy. Lifestyle changes can be challenging to begin with, but as you form new and healthier routines and habits, you'll start to notice the positive effect they're having. Soon after realizing this, you'll be happily welcoming additional lifestyle changes to continue feeling, looking, and living better.

Designed to manage pain and reduce more varicose veins from forming, changing your lifestyle may prevent new cases of varicose veins but it won’t get rid of any existing varicose veins.