Common Sense Recommendations

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Exercise regularly. Staying fit is the best way to keep your leg muscles toned, your blood flowing, and your weight under control.

Eat foods low in fat, sugar, and salt. Drink plenty of water. Take supplements of vitamins C and E.

If your job requires you to be on your feet constantly, stretch and exercise your legs as often as possible to increase circulation and reduce pressure buildup.

If you smoke, quit. Smoking may contribute to elevated blood pressure, which in turn can aggravate varicosity.

If you're pregnant, sleep on your left side rather than on your back. This minimizes pressure from the uterus on the veins in your pelvic area. It also improves blood flow to the fetus.

To ease painful swelling and inflammation, rest frequently, wear support stockings, and take one or two aspirin or ibuprofen tablets daily until the condition clears.

If you like to sit with your legs crossed, cross them at the ankles rather than the knees for better circulation.

Take occasional breaks and put your feet up. Periods of rest with your feet a few inches above your heart level let gravity work in your favor, helping pooled blood drain from your legs.

Avoid high heels in favor of flat shoes.

Wear loose clothing. Tight garments can restrict venous blood flow to leave blood pooled in the legs. Particularly harmful are girdles or pantyhose too snug in the groin area, garters, calf-hugging boots, or waist-cinching belts.

Take an aspirin every day. This will thin the blood and prevent blood from clotting. (Consult your doctor if you are taking any heart medication or other medication for blood clotting.)