Varicose Veins - Hot water or cold water?

Question

If someone has Varicose Veins, shou he/she shower in hot water or cold water. which one is healthier?

Answer 1

I don't think it matters. But theoretically, cold water is better, because it causes your surface blood vessels to constrict and blood to pool around your core. Hot water causes your surface blood vessels to expand, so more blood travels through them and they become thicker and more noticeable. Spider veins are also reduced in appearance this way--they are caused by repeated flushing of your skin (that is, repeated dilations of blood vessels at the surface). But this only works for the duration of the shower. You'd be better off taking only cold showers, and using the money you save from the heating costs to pay to get your varicose veins and/or spider veins removed.

Answer 2

Varicose veins are veins in the lower legs that are distended, widened, and in some cases, twisted

Tips

Avoid standing for long periods of time. This will reduce pressure on the valves in the veins in your legs. If you are pregnant of if your occupation puts a lot of stress on your legs, wear support stockings.

While standing, get on your tip-toes by lifting your heels off the floor. Do this twenty times, relax for a few minutes, then repeat. This exercise will strengthen your calf muscles and promote circulation.



Your job or hobby may be the cause of your varicose veins. If you have to stand or sit too long in one position, this may cause circulatory problems. Crossing your legs may greatly enhance your problem, too

Try changing your work or sitting conditions and take the mini-breaks mentioned above. Varicose veins did not happen overnight and alleviating them will take time, too. Be patient.



Heat dilates blood vessels so the veins are more visible after hot showers or baths. Try COOL , QUICK  showers instead of hot soaks. Cold compresses can also temporarily hide veins.



Elevating your feet whenever possible will reduce the pressure in your legs. Use a recliner or ottoman when reading or watching TV, or if you read in bed, elevate your feet with cushions or pillows.

Weight may also be a problem. Exercise and dietary changes to lose weight will be very beneficial to relieving varicose veins.

Jump rope to strengthen the leg muscles and blood vessels. Begin slowly to build up tolerance; jump one minute per session and slowly build up to 5 minutes.

Rubbing your legs with some sort of soothing lotion such as St John's wort oil, lanolin, or massage oil will relax the leg muscles and improve circulation. Gently massaging with an upward motion with your palms or fingertips and occasionally squeezing your legs will help force blood out of the veins in your legs and back to the heart.