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Leg Pain – When Should I See a Doctor?

Apr 22, 2022 | General Health, Vein Health

We all want to take good care of our health. But no one wants to visit a doctor unnecessarily. However, you may wonder with leg pain—when should I see a doctor?

Here are helpful facts about when to contact a doctor about your leg pain.

Legs Are Complex

Legs comprise many biological structures, including veins, bones, tendons, cartilage, and nerves.

Vascular problems affect the blood vessels, including arteries and veins. Endovascular and vascular surgeons specialize in vascular problems in the body, excluding the brain and heart.
Musculoskeletal problems involve bones, ligaments, joints, and tendons. An orthopedic surgeon or orthopedist generally treats them.
Neurological problems involve nerves and the nervous system. Neurologists specialize in these medical issues.

Of course, the doctor or specialist to treat your leg pain depends on your specific leg problem.

If You don’t Know the Cause of Your Leg Pain – Where to Start

If you don’t know the cause of your leg pain, start by visiting a general practitioner. They will direct you to the best specialist for treatment if necessary.

At times, the medical problem isn’t in your leg at all—even if the pain is. Sometimes a person feels leg pain when the pain source is in another part of their body.

Sciatica pain is a good example of this; leg pain originates from a nerve pathway that starts in the patient’s spine.

Sciatica is often treated by exercise but see your general practitioner or a neurologist.

Sometimes, the cause of leg pain is obvious, such as with varicose veins. You can see the twisted veins right there on your leg. And you can feel the discomfort or pain.

If this is the case, you can start by immediately contacting an endovascular surgeon to assess and treat the problem.

So, let’s first look at the onset of the pain to determine what action you should take.

Acute or Chronic Leg Pain

How a pain starts, and the duration of the pain tells you something about the cause of your leg pain and whether you should contact a doctor.

Acute pain is sudden, sharp, and intense and lasts awhile. It warns of an immediate problem in the body and calls for immediate attention.

Chronic pain may start off more slowly and gently but can worsen and become a daily irritant. If you don’t know the cause of your chronic pain, and it has lasted for several days, it’s time to see a doctor.

But unless you’re in great discomfort, it’s probably fine to just schedule an appointment.

When To See a Doctor Immediately

If There’s Acute Leg Pain from an Injury

If you have pain in your leg caused by a deep cut, or an injury that leaves an exposed tendon or bone, immediately get to an emergency room or urgent care.

Not only are you prone to developing a serious infection, but you need emergency care to ensure your leg heals properly.

X-Rays or other tests may help your doctor make a complete diagnosis and then treat the leg properly so it can heal completely.

If You Have Any of the Following Unexplained Leg Pain Symptoms

You may feel it’s safe to ignore these symptoms for a few days, but it’s not.

Get immediate medical care if you have:

Swollen legs accompanied by breathing problems
Sudden inability to stand or put pressure on leg
Sudden severe leg pain
Calf pain after sitting for a long time—often after a long car trip or plane ride

If You Suspect Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

The most common reason people experience calf pain is from a muscle injury. However, calf pain can be a sign of DVT—especially if it occurs shortly after a lengthy plane or car trip.

A deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in a leg. The blood clot can travel and lodge in the lungs, making this a potentially life-threatening situation.

You want this problem treated as soon as possible. The usual treatment is medication and wearing compression stockings.

Pain, cramping, soreness, or tenderness in the calf muscles are the most common DVT symptoms. You probably won’t feel a sharp or stabbing pain. You may think you have a muscle cramp but are actually feeling the formation of the deep vein clot.

Other DVT symptoms include swelling, redness, or discolored skin in the affected leg. The leg may also feel warm to the touch.

If you experience any of these symptoms shortly after your plane ride, contact your doctor. If you can’t reach your doctor, seek emergency care immediately.

Time to See a Doctor – But It’s Not an Emergency

Chronic unexplained leg pain is also a reason to see a doctor.

Call for an appointment if your leg pain is:

Uncomfortable
Persistent
Getting worse
Not going away after a few days

Sometimes All Your Leg Needs is Rest and TLC

Many of us experience leg pain from time to time. This includes muscle soreness from overuse of your legs or the occasional leg cramp.

Muscle cramps can be extremely painful.

They can be caused by:

overuse of muscles in hot weather
certain medications
diet
dehydration.

Gentle massaging and stretching can help leg cramps, as will a heating pad.

If you’ve been using your legs a lot, it’s common to have sore leg muscles and minor swelling.

For this, try to stay off your legs. It will help to apply ice to the swollen or painful area for 20 minutes to reduce inflammation, three times a day.

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help you feel better too.

Varicose Veins Are a Common and Treatable Cause of Leg Pain

Varicose veins are a leg condition that, according to the Society for Vascular Surgery, affects 35% of adults in the US. They are most common in adults over 50. And genetics can play a role too.

Varicose veins are twisted, blue/purple veins under your skin. They are most common on the legs, ankles, and feet.

Varicose veins aren’t always a health risk, but they can become quite painful and they’re not pretty to look at.

Leg pain symptoms of varicose veins include:

Tired legs at the end of the day
Dull ache in leg
Itchiness or tingling
Cramps
Heaviness

Today, there are treatments available for varicose veins to eliminate the pain and unsightly appearance of the veins. And your insurance may cover it!

If you would like to learn more about minimally invasive treatment options for varicose and spider veins, contact us at The New Jersey Vein and Vascular Center.

Top Foods That Improve Circulation and Vein Health

Feb 21, 2021 | General Health, Prevention of Vein Conditions, Vein Health

Some foods make more of an impact on vein health than others. That is why we have compiled a list of the best power foods to eat for your circulation.

Restless legs and arms, swollen veins, and skin discoloration. If these symptoms are a daily occurrence for you, you might have poor blood circulation. And you’re not alone. With a few changes to your diet, you can make a huge improvement to your circulatory system and overall health.

Our circulation affects every aspect of our health. How we eat affects digestion, energy, weight gain or loss, pH levels, and even body temperature.

The circulation system provides the oxygen necessary for organs to function. Key nutrients keep your veins strong and flexible. But not all nutrients are created equal.

Bioflavonoids-Rich Food

Bioflavonoids give foods their vibrant colors. So, on your next grocery run, choose colorful vegetables to add to your cart. A diet containing a higher percentage of bioflavonoid rich foods will help prevent the development of varicose veins.

Choose a diet including leafy greens, rich purples, orange, red and yellow. The more colorful your diet is, the better.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba, commonly known as ginkgo, is one of the oldest living tree species that is native to China. Although poisonous to eat, ginkgo is available as an oral tablet, extract, or tea.

The ginkgo seeds have been a part of Chinese medicine for ages. It is said to increase blood flow. Scientific evidence has proven this belief to be true.

For blood vessels to dilate, nitric oxide must be present. Ginkgo increases the levels of nitric oxide in the blood-enhancing circulation.

Celery

Celery is an excellent source of Vitamin K which is essential for blood clotting and healthy blood flow. Low in calories, high in several vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, celery is also a natural diuretic and high in electrolytes.

Often overlooked, this amazing vegetable helps to eliminate toxins. It is delicious in smoothies, soups, salads, or eaten raw and topped with hummus, peanut butter, or salsa.

Dark Chocolate

Chocolate may please your sweet craving, but did you know it is also incredible for heart health and blood circulation? Dark chocolate comes from the Cocoa plant which contains flavanols. Like Bioflavonoids, this plant-based compound enhances production of Nitric Oxide–which improves blood flow.

Fiber

In addition to aiding in weight management, fiber encourages vein health. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water. It helps prevent constipation that can increase pressure on your veins causing issues.

Insoluble fiber, as the name suggests, does not dissolve in water. It works to reduce cholesterol levels and benefits heart health.

High fiber foods include apples, oats, carrots, flaxseed, berries, and barley.

Avocados

Avocados contain an antioxidant called Glutathione. This component is good for the blood vessels, and it aids in the prevention of varicose veins.

Avocados are a fruit that you can enjoy in many ways. Whether on a slice of toast, blended in a smoothie, or chopped into salsa, it’s easy to include in your diet.

Rosemary

You may have used this circulation booster as a garnish on food or in cocktails. Rosemary is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, it works well to help in the prevention of varicose veins.

Additionally, rosemary reduces pain for many people struggling with vein-related issues. You can use rosemary as a spice for food, in essential oils, or even as a tea.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps boost your body’s production of collagen and elastin. It also improves circulation. Vitamin C deficiency is associated with an increased risk of developing varicose or spider veins.

Include citrus and tropical fruits, broccoli, onions, spinach, and red bell peppers into your diet. These foods all contain high levels of vitamin C to keep your veins strong.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a powerful fruit packed with lots of vitamin K. They increase the production of platelets in the body and promote good blood health.

Tomatoes also contain lycopene which is a powerful antioxidant. It aids in protection against cardiovascular illnesses. Moreover, lycopene helps reduce fat deposition in blood vessels.

Eat tomatoes any way you like – soups, salsa, or even juice – the benefits are outstanding.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are among the best anti-inflammatory foods you can eat. These fruits are naturally sweet and contain critical soluble fibers for the heart and blood.

Lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruit are all high in Vitamin C.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are a nutritious way to promote your overall circulatory health. They are rich in nitrates and polyphenol antioxidants, two powerful vasodilators. Vasodilators widen blood vessels and allow blood to flow more easily.

Pomegranates are especially beneficial for people who lead an active lifestyle. That is because they improve oxygenated blood flow to muscle tissue.

Try using pomegranate supplements, juices, or simply eating the raw fruit.

Garlic

A natural blood thinner, garlic has been used medicinally for centuries. It helps to relieve stress on veins and throughout the body. Garlic decreases the risk of hypertension by reducing blood pressure.

If you already take a blood-thinning medication, check with your doctor before adding a garlic supplement to your routine.

Cinnamon

This naturally occurring warming spice is extremely heart healthy. Cinnamon relaxes our blood vessels allowing them to widen. It has been proven to increase blood flow to the coronary artery, the main supply of blood to the heart.

Research indicates that by adding a daily cinnamon supplement, blood pressure lowered in those at risk for hypertension.

Ginger

Often used to aid in digestion or relieve nausea, ginger is also known to increase blood circulation. Add some to your stir fry or add some into your tea.

Ginger can also help clear congestion when those winter colds set in.

Fatty Fish

Omega-3 fatty acids naturally occur in fish oil and aid in healthy blood flow. They reduce pressure on veins and arteries. Fish oils are further associated with the health of our musculoskeletal system.

The musculoskeletal system provides us with movement, stability, and support. Fatty fish such as salmon are a great supplier of Omega-3.

Phenol Rich Foods

Phenol rich foods act as a protectant and can give our bodies a boost. Phenol is considered an antioxidant that benefits the entire body.

Good sources of phenol foods are peas, beans, soy milk, black and green teas, parsley, and broccoli. The high phenol content of olive oil reduces the risk of developing a blood clot.

Beets

Did you know a common ingredient in most sports drinks is beet powder or beet juice? That’s because beets are linked to improved performance in athletes. Beets contain a high number of nitrates that the body converts to nitric oxide – a blood flow enhancement nutrient.

Although, beets aren’t only for the sports minded. Many older adults with circulatory health issues have found success by adding beets to their daily regimen.

Raw Nuts and Seeds

Nuts contain niacin or vitamin B3 which prevent circulation problems. They also aid with inflammation and are helpful to those with diabetes. Walnuts and almonds are two of the most nutrient-packed nuts that are said to help clear arteries.

Hemp, chia, flax, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds have large amounts of omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. They are all a good source of anti-inflammatory proteins that help lower cholesterol and improve blood quality.

Turmeric

Increased blood flow is one small benefit provided by the spice turmeric. In fact, in ancient Chinese medicine, there are several uses for turmeric besides opening blood vessels.

Turmeric has been used for centuries as a healing agent to treat chronic pain. It decreases inflammation throughout the body and even aids in depression.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper strengthens the arteries and blood vessels. It also boosts your metabolism and helps reduce weight. It’s best to eat raw and can be added to a smoothie for an extra kick.

Staying Hydrated

One of the most important habits to focus on for the health of your veins is staying hydrated. Your best source of hydration is water. Water keeps your blood from becoming too thick, which increases your risk of blood clots, poor circulation, and varicose veins.

A healthy diet can improve circulation and vein health, providing benefits to the entire body. In addition to diet there are other ways to improve circulation.

One-third of our population over the age of 45 has some form of vein disease. Early symptoms may be minor but could become severe. While vein disease can be hereditary, lifestyle and food choices also affect your veins.

It is important to treat vein disease to prevent permanent damage or disability. If you have concerns about the health of your veins, consult with a healthcare professional. Contact The New Jersey Vein and Vascular Center. We can relieve your symptoms, improve your appearance, and help you prevent complications.

Sources:
http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/106/17/2170

https://www.everydayhealth.com/g00/dvt-pictures/foods-to-fight-dvt.aspx?i10c.encReferrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXZlcnlkYXloZWFsdGguY29tL2R2dC1waWN0dXJlcy9mb29kcy10by1maWdodC1kdnQuYXNweA%3D%3D&i10c.ua=1#08

https://www.healwithfood.org/varicoseveins/diet.php

https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5970/www.hamiltonvein.com/eat-this-drink-that-for-healthier-stronger-veins/

http://www.veinforum.org/patients/what-is-vein-disease.html

Keeping Veins Healthy with These Diet Tips

Jul 18, 2018 | General Health, Vein Health

You lowered your carb intake to cut belly fat. You upped your protein intake to build muscle. But cutting fat and building muscle aren’t the only things your diet can do for you. There are plenty of items you can add and subtract from your diet to improve vein health, an important but oftentimes overlooked system in our bodies. Here’s our best advice for keeping veins healthy with these diet tips.

Get Your Fill of Fiber

For keeping veins healthy, start by eating plenty of fiber. You may think fiber is just for people with digestive issues but upping your fiber intake will keep you from allowing cholesterol (the bad kind) to infiltrate your vascular system and cause all sorts of problems.

To consume fiber, try starting your day off with some oatmeal and fresh berries. Snack on some nuts throughout the day, and eat some peas, Brussels sprouts, or quinoa with dinner. You can even get your fiber at fast food places like Chipotle, as brown rice and avocado are loaded with it.

Benefits of Vitamin C for Your Veins

Elastin and collagen give our veins flexibility and thereby strengthen them, but our bodies can’t produce these essential proteins without Vitamin C.

Lucky for you, finding ways to work Vitamin C into your diet is about as simple as it gets. Obviously, oranges are a great source of this much needed vitamin. Other Vitamin C rich alternatives include strawberries, papaya, and kiwi, three fruits that taste great mixed with yogurt or eaten on their own. Throw some bell peppers in your salad for another simple source or eat some pineapple as a sweet afternoon or evening snack.

How Water Helps Veins

Our veins are 92% water, so it’s easy to surmise they require loads of it to function properly. Also, remember that fiber you’re so excited about working into your diet? Well, without enough water that fiber can’t do its job. So, it’s best to make sure you are consuming enough of both.

Try drinking water with every meal instead of soda or alcoholic beverages. Leave a bottle of water in your car or take a reusable bottle into work. When you try to drink more water, it starts to become easy very quickly. Just make sure you’ll have time to run to the bathroom, as more water means more– well– you get the idea.

Rutin – Your Vein Care Antioxidant

Another thing you need to eat more of is rutin. Rutin is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation caused by damaged veins and can even work to help prevent blood clots.

You can find rutin in asparagus, teas, and cranberries. Additionally, any citrus zest contains rutin, so that lime in your occasional Corona might be doing you more good than you thought.

Salt and Your Veins

Lastly, the phrase “don’t salt your soup before you taste it,” could have been coined by a vascular surgeon. In fact, don’t salt your soup at all. It probably tastes just fine without it. A diet high in sodium can lead to fluid retention, which, is bad (very, very bad) for your veins. To limit the amount of salt you consume, just pay attention to nutrition labels and don’t add salt to anything without giving it a good taste test first.

For a more detailed explanation of vein health and additional foods that can improve it, contact our staff and schedule a free consultation.

Additional Sources:

https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-percentage-of-water-present-in-our-blood

9 Hidden Health Risks of Untreated Varicose Veins

Jan 18, 2018 | Varicose Veins, Vein Conditions, Vein Health

When one thinks of vein treatment, often what immediately comes to mind is the aesthetic aspect. But there are hidden health risks of untreated varicose veins. Varicose, spider, reticular, and pregnancy veins are all considered unsightly. While many may not care to invest in treating vein conditions and are willing to accept the look of their blue, red or purplish veins, this certainly isn’t the only reason to consider having vein treatments. The truth is, some vein conditions carry their share of risks as well as discomfort, and if left untreated can lead to larger issues.

Varicose veins are a common symptom of age (especially in women), a sedentary lifestyle, and excess body weight, among other genetic factors. Most people consider them more of an unsightly cosmetic inconvenience, rather than an actual health risk.

Learn the Health Risks of Untreated Varicose Veins:

If left untreated for a prolonged period, varicose veins pose some potential major health risks that could leave you hospitalized and in pain.

1. Changes in Skin

The skin near an untreated varicose vein will turn “shiny”, feel waxy and thin, and take on a darker, almost bruised pigmentation. This will deepen over time without treatment. The skin around a varicose vein is easily disturbed and delicate enough to be damaged by a slight bump. Heavy bruising is not uncommon.

While not a serious health risk, this symptom causes many to feel self-conscious about their skin. Dermatitis from the varicose vein could lead to infection if not treated properly.

2. Itching

One of the most common symptoms of untreated varicose veins is an “itching” sensation. It is often treated as dry skin if varicose veins are not obvious. This symptom is one of the mildest on this list and can often be treated with over-the-counter skin salves and ointments. Seeking the opinion of a specialist is important to make sure that there aren’t serious issues happening beneath the skin.

3. Swelling

Varicose veins can cause far more problems than meets the eye. Don’t think that they are simply visible little veins. They are visible for a reason. When blood isn’t pumping out of the legs properly due to damaged valves within the vein walls, blood begins to collect. This enlarges parts of the veins where blood is stagnant.

While some people may never feel any discomfort due to appearance of varicose veins, there are many who experience leg swelling, cramps, restlessness, and even burning sensations.

4. Pain and Cramping

Because varicose veins affect the flow of blood through the veins, oxygen that is carried through the blood does not reach the proper areas, leading to muscle cramps near the site of the vein. These cramps are painful, sometimes debilitating, and can severely affect mobility.

5. Bleeding

Some experience bleeding when veins close to the skin burst. While this isn’t usually a very serious health risk it’s important to have veins checked and treated so it does not continue to occur. Bleeding can sometimes prove heavy. In cases of bleeding, it is important to seek medical assistance.

6. Ulcers Due to Untreated Varicose Veins

Venous diseases can also cause leg ulcers. An ulcer is a break in the skin, which is dangerous due to exposure to bacteria and infection. According to Mayo Clinic, these ulcers are caused by long-term fluid buildup in the tissues surrounding the varicose veins due to “increased pressure of the blood within the affected veins”. These ulcers are slow-healing, painful, and can even be caused simply by scratching the skin over a varicose vein.

Leg ulcers can easily get infected and lead to further health complications. Treating a varicose vein is paramount to treating an ulcer, as the ulcer is not likely to heal while the vein is still affected. Healing leg ulcers can take a very long time and often require a wound care specialist. This can be avoided with proper vein treatment before the ulcers take hold.

7. Superficial Thrombophlebitis

This condition occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein that is close to the skin, causing it to swell and push against the dermis (layer of skin under the epidermis), making it visible. This symptom causes discomfort and can lead to more complications, since the vein is more vulnerable to damage or irritation.

8. Deep Vein Thrombosis (Blood Clots)

When varicose veins are present, the blood in the veins is unable to cycle back through and pools in the body. This creates what is called “stagnant blood flow”. A blood clot located in deep veins is known as deep vein thrombosis. While superficial veins are not at risk for deep vein thrombosis, often those who experience discomfort from varicose veins may not realize that perhaps their discomfort is from deep veins.

Blood clots for superficial veins are often not much of a health problem; however, according to WebMD clots found in deep veins have the potential to travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing potentially life-threatening issues. This is one of the most serious health risks associated with untreated varicose veins.

9. Lipodermatosclerosis

The appearance of veins may indeed be a warning of a bigger issue, which is why it’s important to have them checked by a doctor. For example, varicose veins are a key symptom in an illness called Lipodermatosclerosis. The National Institute of Health says those suffering from this disease suffer “pain, hardening of skin, change in skin color, swelling, and tapering of legs above the ankles.” It’s important to start recommended treatment to control symptoms, as in more severe cases surgery may be necessary.

Don’t Ignore Unsightly Veins

While many unsightly veins prove simply superficial, there are potential risks to ignoring them. It is important to have visible veins checked, and if necessary, treatment by a medical professional to avoid future issues that may cause discomfort, stress, and serious health problems.

Call today to schedule an appointment at The New Jersey Vein and Vascular Center, a leading center for treatment of varicose vein disease and venous insufficiency, or visit our website for more information.

12 Simple Ways to Improve Circulation

Jan 18, 2018 | Diet & Exercise, General Health, Vein Health

Your circulatory system is your body’s method of distributing both nutrients and oxygen. It also functions to clean your body, whisking away carbon dioxide and waste products from all areas. It is very important to keep your blood circulating well so that your body gets all the support it needs to survive. Which is why we have compiled a list of the simplest ways to improve circulation and stay healthy.

The symptoms of poor circulation can vary. Some people experience slight tingling in their extremities, while others might develop varicose veins in their legs. Whatever the symptoms, inadequate blood flow is a major risk factor for issues like heart attacks, strokes, and even amputation of limbs.

Proper circulation is vital for one’s health, and can also prevent varicose veins. If you’re worried about your circulation or experience pain or coldness in certain areas, you should contact your doctor immediately, as this may be indicative of poor blood flow. With these tips in mind, it is easier than ever to prevent and improve poor circulation to keep yourself healthy.

Take a Walk

Poor circulation can be a problem for those who stand for extended periods of time at work. In this position, the blood simply is not recirculating adequately in the body, and it can result in extreme pain in the legs and feet. According to this study, the simple act of walking every day can dramatically increase the circulation throughout your body.

If you find yourself standing for too long, or remaining sedentary for any reason, find a friend, go for a walk, and get that blood moving. A simple exercise like walking is enough to stretch your muscles and restore blood flow.

Stop Smoking

It’s no secret that smoking cigarettes leads to a host of health problems. Not least among them is the fact that cigarettes are extremely damaging to cardiovascular health. Smoking causes swelling of the wrists and ankles. It damages your cells on a molecular level and can increase the risk of blood clots.

Cigarettes kill 140,000 people in America because of their impact on cardiovascular health. Quitting cigarettes is one of the best things you can do to ensure your vital organs receive an increased amount of oxygenated blood.

Try Swedish Massage

A therapeutic Swedish massage, available at most spas, is a luxurious getaway for your body and mind. Though relaxation is tied to healthier blood flow, massage therapy has been shown to increase local blood circulation and lymphatic flow. Trained massage therapists know how to increase your circulation through specialty strokes throughout the session.

Do Some Yoga to Improve Circulation

Regular, gentle yoga is another pleasant alternative therapy for improving circulation. Studies have shown that certain yoga poses have proven beneficial for cardiovascular health, and offer a myriad of other health benefits as well.

The best part about yoga is that simple exercises and stretches can be safely done in the comfort of your own home, without expensive equipment or gym fees.

Put Those Feet Up

Aside from the fact that you deserve a break at the end of a long, exhausting day, there are legitimate health reasons to put your feet up daily. Gravity can cause fluids to build up in your lower limbs if you’re on your feet all day. Laying down with your feet elevated about six inches above your torso is a great way to reduce swelling.

Elevating your feet lets gravity help your blood flow establish a more natural rhythm, especially if you’ve spent a great portion of your day on your feet.

Decrease Stress

When you’re stressed out, your body produces higher levels of the hormone cortisol, which is linked to cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure. Studies have shown that stress significantly decreases the amount of oxygenated blood flow to the heart.

If you’re experiencing elevated levels of stress, it’s likely impacting your circulation. Try to focus on mediating that stress in your life. Whether you de-stress through hobby time, meditation, phone calls with friends, listening to music, or journaling, make sure you prioritize your peace of mind.

Losing Weight Will Improve Circulation

Like quitting smoking, losing weight takes a little more of a lifestyle change to implement. Weight gain restricts blood flow due to endothelial dysfunction, blocking circulation to the limbs. It’s been shown that having excess fat, especially belly fat, can make it more difficult for your abdominal arteries to expand. This means less blood flow throughout the rest of your body.

Losing weight can help take pressure off those arteries, and lead to better circulation.

Wear Compression Stockings or Socks

Compression stockings are long, tight socks that hug your lower legs and improve blood circulation. They counteract the tendency of blood to pool in the lower legs. Compression socks squeeze your vein walls in such a way that the blood returns to the heart from the legs more easily. They help mimic the muscle movement created by walking even when you’re sitting still. This discourages stiffness and swelling, and is very useful for people who work long hours sitting at a desk.

Compression socks can be purchased in a variety of styles, fabrics, colors, and levels of compression. Some are designed for dress, casual, and sports, in open and closed toe. There are four main levels of compression from 8-15 mmHg to 30-40 mmHg. The lower the number, the milder the compression. People in many professions wear compression socks daily to improve circulation, and prevent leg fatigue and swelling.

Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Pomegranates and blueberries are great sources of antioxidants, which are thought to increase blood flow by neutralizing free radicals, which can damage your cells. Some other super foods to include in your diet to increase circulation are grapes, nuts, dark green veggies, sweet potatoes, beans and fish.

Wear the Right Clothes

Tight clothing prevents blood flow by placing pressure on the skin. Loose clothing allows blood to flow freely without restriction. Shoes that are too tight or at an odd angle (like high heels) force your feet into uncomfortable positions, causing swelling in the feet and ankles which restricts blood flow.

Choose clothes and shoes that are comfortable if you know you will be on your feet for long periods of time. Save those more form fitting clothes and high heels for date night or special occasions.

Don’t Cross Your Legs

Crossing your legs while sitting can restrict blood flow. Sitting with both feet flat on the ground helps prevent this. If you typically cross your legs, this can be a difficult habit to break, but it is highly recommended that you give it a try.

Crossing your legs not only hinders circulation but it can also lead to poor posture, back pain and leg stiffness.

Drink Water

Your body needs water to move nutrients and waste throughout the blood. It helps keep both your blood and skin cells hydrated so they can repair themselves efficiently. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems.

Keep water on hand and drink it regularly throughout the day. Drinking water will improve circulation, brain function and heart problems.

Poor circulation is a serious health threat that afflicts many Americans, but there are plenty of interventions to consider. If you have been giving extra thought to improving your circulation, the professionals at New Jersey Vein and Vascular Center can help answer questions about vascular health, blood flow, and varicose veins.

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