Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins that appear blue or purple under the skin.
Physical activity helps improve blood flow and strengthen the muscles that support the veins.
Raising your legs above heart level can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs.
Compression stockings apply pressure to the legs and help improve blood flow.
Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the veins, making varicose veins worse.
Sitting or standing for long periods of time can lead to blood pooling in the legs, which can worsen varicose veins.
Gentle massage can help improve circulation and reduce pain and swelling in the legs.
Certain herbs, such as horse chestnut and butcher's broom, have been shown to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs.