Travel Tips For People With Varicose Veins

Cold days are nearing, and the holidays are a great time to travel. Travelers should take care of their health to ensure they reach their destination and return back home safely. Whether you travel on a plane, inside a train, or via your car, your journey will involve prolonged periods of sitting or standing on your feet. 

Long hours of sitting or standing can be potentially risky for people with varicose veins and result in complications. However, it is possible to travel safely with varicose veins by taking a few steps. You can mitigate the risks by adopting a few lifestyle changes, too. To know about your treatment options, click here. 

Travel tips for people with varicose veins 

• Pull over for a break. 

Driving for long hours can lead to prolonged sitting, causing blood to pool in your legs and not flow back to your heart. You can take turns in driving. If you are driving alone, pull over every two hours to stretch your body and let your legs walk around for a bit. Sitting for too long can cut off circulation and cause various complications. If you already have varicose veins, it can lead to worsened conditions.

• Keep yourself hydrated. 

Drinking an adequate amount of water is important for the proper functioning of various body parts. One of the best ways to reduce your veins-related discomfort while traveling is by drinking enough water. Drinking at least 3.7 liters and 3.7 liters is recommended for men and women respectively. It improves your vein health by promoting blood circulation and strengthening the muscles that support your veins.

• Elevate your legs. 

Propping your legs up can make it easier for blood to flow back to your heart and prevents pooling in the legs. When you are driving on your road trip, take some time to lie down with your feet raised up in the air. Doing this for a few minutes can be beneficial. You can also prop your legs on a pillow while driving. If elevating your legs is not possible while traveling, such as when you are traveling via a plane, do so as soon as your reach your destination.

• Wear compression stockings. 

If you have varicose veins and you sit for long hours, swelling is likely to occur. Wearing compression stockings controls the swelling and keeps the blood flowing properly. It is highly recommended to wear compression stockings on a road trip, especially if you are the driver. In fact, you should wear them the entire time you remain in the car until you reach your destination.