A Chicago Vein Expert On Improving Your Circulation

Our culture and often our work demands keep us sitting for hours on end. Because of long hours sitting at desks and on long commutes followed by coming home to flop on the sofa in front of the television or in front of the Internet, the majority of people spend too much time sedentary. Add to this the ever-growing problem of weight gain, and we now have a huge population who are at a much higher risk for poor circulation. Read on to learn more about circulation and what a Chicago vein expert suggests to do to get the blood flowing again.

What can Chicago residents do to get the blood pumping?

Spider and varicose veins develop when the veins in the legs and feet are unable to circulate the blood back up to the heart. This allows the blood to pool, resulting in bulging, discolored problem veins. Better circulation can alleviate many of the symptoms caused by this condition and can even help prevent new varicosities from forming. In order to improve your circulation, you must make lifestyle changes, wear the right attire, and take care of your legs.

Dress right for improved circulation

Discuss wearing compression stockings with your doctor. These specialty socks are created with elastic fabrics of varying degrees of pressure that squeeze the legs and increase blood flow out of the lower body. The type of compression you need will depend on the extremity of your condition. Following your vein assessment at our Chicago vein treatment center, Dr. Ramon Castro will be able to prescribe or recommend the perfect stocking for your needs.

According to vein care specialists in Chicago, it is wise to wear flat shoes or low-heeled shoes instead of stilettos or other high-heeled shoes, because lower heels force the leg muscles to work harder, thereby better circulating blood through the leg. Additionally, avoid wearing clothing that is too tight around the hips, legs, and groin. Wearing looser fitting clothing allows for freedom of blood movement back up to the heart.

Move around for better blood flow

Exercise is one of the top ways to improve your circulation and decrease the occurrence of varicose veins. Walking is easy and one of the best ways to get exercise for most people, because you can do it anywhere at any time without needing special equipment. If you don’t know where to begin with exercise, your Chicago vascular doctor can help you create an exercise routine for your activity level. Keep in mind that sitting or standing in any one position for too long is unhealthy, so move around as much as possible.

Stop smoking for healthier veins

Strong, healthy veins pump blood better. When you smoke, your veins harden, which can cause the pressure valves inside the vein to fail and lead to varicose veins. Smoking can also increase your risk for developing dangerous blood clots, which can be fatal. If you are having trouble quitting on your own, joining a smoking cessation program can help you break the habit.

At-home treatments for circulation

Dr. Castro often advises patients to elevate tired and swollen legs above the heart level to help drain excess blood and get it moving out of the legs. He also suggests sitting with legs uncrossed, as crossing your legs is thought to hinder blood flow.

If you want to know more about circulation issues or treatments, our friendly and knowledgeable representatives are happy to answer your questions. Please call us at 773-283-7887. If you’re suffering from poor circulation or vein disease, we also offer conservative and minimally invasive treatment options to improve your circulation and have you feeling healthier again.