It’s that fabulous time of the year again when most folks make their vacation dreams a reality and set off to travel and explore. Regardless of your preferred mode of transportation, preventing varicose veins in Orlando should be given consideration, especially during long and potentially limited-space travels. If you’ve already been diagnosed with varicose veins or if you’re trying to prevent them from developing, extended periods of time spent sitting or standing can result in symptoms either appearing or worsening. Dr. Bragg of Florida Vein Care suggests the following ways to help alleviate the stressors on your veins during extended or confined travel:
- Stay hydrated. We all like to have a good time while on vacation, and we tend to give up our good eating habits and indulge a bit. Remember that alcoholic beverages, sweet drinks, and salty foods can cause dehydration just as severely as the heat and sun. Plane cabins can cause dehydration as well as lengthy periods spent in a vehicle. Drink plenty of water daily to keep your vein walls from constricting which narrows blood flow and can increase the risk of varicose veins or worsen symptoms.
- Take a dip in cool, refreshing water. While hot tubs and saunas are enjoyable ways to relax, they are not good for your vein health. If you absolutely have to get into the hot tub, do so with moderation. High temperatures result in your veins dilating which can also result in weakening of the veins. If you have varicosities, the hot water will increase your discomfort. Be sure to elevate your legs after a visit to the sauna or hot tub.
- Think comfy clothes. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing whether traveling or headed out for a night on the town. Clothes that are too tight at the waist or around the legs can increase pressure on the veins and have a negative impact on circulation; add a confined space, and you are seriously risking venous issues. Fitted compression hosiery should be worn as prescribed to help maintain appropriate blood flow.
- Don’t keep still. Whether in a car or on a plane, keep your legs moving by flexing your heel up and down at regular integrals. This causes your calf muscles to contract, which, in turn, applies normal pressure to the circulatory system which keeps it working as intended. If you can get up and stretch or even walk for a few minutes, do so.
- Elevate, elevate, and elevate. Vacations are a great time for sight-seeing and being active, but take advantage of the down times in your itinerary and elevate your feet so they are raised slightly above your heart. Your veins won’t have to work as hard to fight gravity; it’s like a mini-vacation for your circulatory system. Whether diagnosed with varicose veins or trying to avoid developing them, elevation of the legs should be a part of your daily routine.
Are you looking for an experienced doctor to treat your varicose veins in Orlando? Then contact Dr. Bragg and the staff at Florida Vein Care. With three convenient locations serving Lake Mary, Dr. Phillips, and East Orlando, you can schedule a convenient, personal consultation to discuss your vein health. Contact us today, or call us at 407-805-8989.