How to Deal with Pesky Vein Problems

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As we age, almost everyone has to deal with common skin problems like dark spots, wrinkles, and dry skin, but these issues can be dealt with quite easily by following a good skincare regimen. Other aging problems often faced by both women and men are issues with veins such as spider veins, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids.

While these are often uncomfortable and, in some cases unsightly, there are some over the counter products available to help ease the symptoms and plenty of things you can do at home to reduce their appearance and minimize the discomfort.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum that become swollen and irritated. They affect almost 50 percent of adults over the age of 50, and while the exact cause is unknown, you may be more likely to suffer from them if you have weak veins and other vein issues such as spider or varicose veins. While these can be treated medically, there are numerous things you can do to minimize the discomfort at home.

One of the easiest things to do is change your diet a little. Increase fiber and fluids, both will help to soften stools and make it easier for them to move through your body. You should also make sure that you exercise regularly to help avoid constipation. When you do need to go, don’t hold it in and wait for a more convenient time – this can lead to straining and pressure.

To ease the pain and itching, sit in a warm bath a few times a day and use cotton pads soaked in witch hazel or ice packs to help sooth the area. You can also purchase a hemorrhoids product to help minimize discomfort and shrink the hemorrhoids.

Varicose Veins

These are bulging veins that appear dark and lump. Due to hormonal influences, varicose veins are quite common among older women and women who are pregnant. There are many ways to prevent varicose veins and treat the symptoms ranging from lifestyle changes to home remedies to surgery.

Exercise is important as it helps to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow. Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking and cycling are ideal as they help to reduce pressure. To stretch and strengthen veins, perform calf raises, leg lifts and side lunges. If you spend a lot of time sitting down, don’t cross your legs and elevate them as much as possible.

Other things that can help reduce swelling, ease discomfort and improve circulation include eating a healthy diet, rubbing an essential oil such as cypress oil on the area and natural herbs such as horse chestnut and bilberry. Both can be found in extracts and teas that taste delicious.

Spider Veins

Spider veins are a little different than varicose veins and typically look like fine lines or shapes that resemble spider webs. They are often smaller and much less painful than varicose veins. Spider veins can be minimized in the same way as varicose veins. Diet and lifestyle changes to help improve circulation will reduce their appearance and the discomfort associated with them. You can also apply apple cider vinegar, witch hazel and lemon essential oil diluted with a carrier oil directly to the affected area for fast relief.