Tips: Help prevent varicose veins

Varicose veins are painful, swollen veins that usually affect the legs. While you may not be able to keep them away from forming, you can take steps to prevent them from worsening. The U.S. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute mentions the following prevention tips:
* Do not stand or sit for long periods without interruption.
* Do not cross your legs while seated.
* Elevate your legs when sitting or lying down, keeping them raised above your heart.
* Get plenty of regular physical activity, strengthening the muscles in your legs.
* Lose any extra weight to help improve blood flow.
* Do not wear tight clothes, especially those that are constricting around the waist, groin or thighs.
* Wear compression hose to help keep blood from pooling if recommended by a doctor.