Vein Treatment Aftercare: 7 Steps to Prevent Varicose Vein Recurrence

Even after you've taken the important step of treating your current varicose veins, your journey doesn’t end there. Taking care of your vascular health after your varicose vein treatment helps prevent recurrence.

Board-certified phlebotomist Dr. David T. Jacobs and our South Shore Vein and Aesthetic Medicine team share seven steps to prevent varicose vein recurrence.

1. Wear your compression stockings

These stockings help improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and minimize the risk of developing new varicose veins. 

Compression stockings are available in various pressures —  measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) — to increase blood flow and prevent blood from pooling.

Dr. Jacobs will provide specific instructions, including if you need compression stockings, how often to wear them, and the strength you need.

2. Stay active

It’s no secret that exercise is good for your entire body, and your veins are no exception. Regular physical activity helps promote good circulation. 

You don’t need to overdo it to get these benefits. Walking, swimming, or gentle yoga can help. Try to get five 30-minute workouts (150 minutes total) of moderate exercise each week.

3. Elevate your legs

Don’t forget to elevate your legs above the level of your heart.  This simple act encourages blood flow back to your heart and decreases the pressure on your veins. It also helps eliminate swelling, especially if you have edema.

Try to elevate your legs for at least 15 minutes several times a day, especially after long periods of standing or sitting. You can also prop your feet up with pillows while watching TV at night.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Carrying excess weight puts more pressure on the valves in your veins, especially in your legs and feet. 

Not only does excess weight put pressure on your valves, but it can also impact your treatments. According to research published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery, having a high body mass index (BMI) can reduce the effectiveness of treatments for venous insufficiency — a major contributor to varicose veins. For this reason, weight management is often included as part of varicose vein management.

Losing weight helps prevent future varicose veins, alleviates pressure on your hips and knees, improves your mood, and reduces your risk of several obesity-related diseases. Win-win!

5. Alternate positions regularly 

Staying in one position — whether that’s sitting or standing —  for hours strains your veins and hinders proper blood flow. If your job requires standing or sitting for long hours, move around or change positions frequently. For example, a convertible standing desk can help you alternate positions while you work on your computer.

If you fly often, consider wearing compression stockings, standing up and stretching (when permitted to do so), or doing calf exercises while seated. If you drive for work, take breaks and stretch regularly. 

Tip: set a reminder on your phone or use the movement reminders on a smartwatch to help you move more throughout the day. 

6. Drink enough water each day

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying properly hydrated helps keep your blood flowing smoothly. 

Aim for 15.5 cups of fluids for men or 11.5 cups for women daily. Fluids include water, herbal tea, juice, and broth.

7. Keep your follow-up appointments

At South Shore Vein and Aesthetic Medicine, Dr. Jacobs and our team are here to help treat the varicose veins you have and help you prevent future recurrences. 

During your follow-up appointments, our team assesses your progress, addresses any concerns, and recommends preventive measures if necessary. Don’t skip these appointments — they’re an important step in preventing future issues!

Questions? If you’re concerned about varicose veins, don’t hesitate to visit us here in Rockville Centre, New York. You can reach us at 516-865-1234 or through our scheduling tool.