Varicose veins are enlarged veins that often occur in the legs and feet. The lower body is more prone to varicose veins because standing and walking upright increases the pressure in these veins. For most people, varicose veins are a cosmetic concern. For others, they may become painful and uncomfortable.
Here are seven surprising causes of varicose veins:
1. Pregnancy
Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of varicose veins. During pregnancy, the amount of blood in a woman’s body increases, while the amount of blood flowing from the legs to the pelvis actually decreases. This can cause the veins in the legs to become enlarged.
2. Crossing Your Legs
Crossing your legs changes the way the blood circulates throughout your body. Over time, a common habit of crossing your legs can lead to varicose veins caused by poor blood circulation.
3. Certain Skin Care Routines
The way you take care of your skin matters when it comes to preventing varicose veins. If you cut yourself while shaving, your normal blood circulation may become disrupted, which puts added pressure on the veins. Rubbing lotion on your legs can help keep your skin moisturized while increasing circulation.
4. Sitting For Long Periods Of Time
Sitting for long periods of time can lead to varicose veins. Sitting all day can cause blood to pool in your veins instead of being pumped around by the muscles, which can lead to enlarged veins.
5. Lack Of Exercise
Lack of exercise can cause blood to pool in your veins. Exercising regularly and staying active can help maintain healthy blood circulation throughout the body to prevent varicose veins. Weight training can also help strengthen your body and reduce your chances of developing varicose veins.
6. Sodium
Salty foods can directly impact your veins. A diet full of sodium can lead to water retention, which puts a significant amount of added pressure on your blood pressure. This can lead to enlarged veins.
7. Wearing High Heels
Walking around can help prevent varicose veins, but the range of motion in your ankles and calves is limited in high heels. You calf becomes stuck in a single position, which prevents blood from being properly circulated. Switch to flats every once in a while to help prevent enlarged veins.