For many people, remaining sedentary is apart of their daily routine. We spend time sitting in a car, commuting to and from work, and coming home and crashing on the couch. While at work, we sit in front of a computer or in meetings for nearly 8 hours a day. Once we’re home, we sit in front of the tv and scroll through social media until it’s time to go to sleep.
A main concern with sedentary lifestyles is weight gain – but there are less obvious consequences too – such as venous disease. While a sedentary lifestyle isn’t the only cause of venous disease, it is unquestionably linked to increasing your risk of developing varicose veins, spider veins, blood clots, and other chronic health problems.
Below are some simple lifestyle habit changes to reduce your risk for venous disease:
- Exercise while at work or watching tv – Simple, easy exercises and stretches like calf raises can help improve your circulation. Read more about some exercises we recommend here.
- Take your phone calls on the go – Instead of sitting on the couch talking to friends and family, talk while on a walk around your neighborhood. Doing this daily will help improve circulation and as an added bonus, you may even lose a few pounds too!
- Park further away – Make it a habit of parking further away and walking to your destinations instead of searching for the closest parking spot.
- Take the stairs – Skip the elevator and opt for the stairs. Your legs will thank you!
- Maintain a healthy weight – Exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing – Wearing tight clothing, especially around the waist, groin and legs, can make some vein conditions worse.
- Wear compression stockings – Compression stockings encourage healthy blood flow and can also improve your results after having a vein condition treated.
Keep in mind, there are several other causes of venous disease, and being inactive is only one of them. If you’re experiencing leg pain, swelling and aching, it’s time to get evaluated by our team of experts. Call us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bob Abrahamsen, Maine’s most experienced vein specialist!