Stress affects everyone. While no one can avoid it completely, you can control how often it affects you. Stress can aggravate any condition and exacerbate symptoms you are experiencing, including varicose veins. The following guide explains how remaining relaxed will improve your vein health. 

How Does Stress Affect Vein Health?

Stress can lead to the overproduction of the hormone cortisol, which is meant to increase your blood sugar levels temporarily and give you energy. As a result of ongoing stress, cortisol can backfire by sending messages to the body that it needs to refuel with food, even when it doesn't. This problem results in weight gain, and this additional demand on your body can damage and weaken your veins. 

Even without weight gain, your heartbeat accelerates when you start to feel stressed, putting pressure on your veins to pump blood back to your heart. While your circulation is compromised, blood may end up pooling in your legs, leading to varicose veins.  

How Can You Feel More Relaxed?

One of the most significant sources of stress today is work. Setting clear boundaries between life at work and home can help you decompress and recharge. Whether you need to speak to a supervisor about reducing your workload or take time during the day for a quick walk or meditation, making work feel more manageable will help you disconnect. 

Movement is crucial for physically shaking off any lingering stress in the body and promoting healthy circulation. Even 30 minutes of walking or riding a bike can reduce stress levels by helping you produce endorphins. A balanced diet can also lead to a balanced mood. For example, healthy eating can keep your blood sugar at a stable level, so consider meal prepping each week to avoid opting for junk food. Being mindful of how you're feeling can help you identify feelings of stress and prompt you to choose meals full of protein, whole grains, and vegetables. 

If you are experiencing discomfort because of varicose veins, turn to Advanced Varicose Vein Treatments of Manhattan for help. This center treats patients throughout New Jersey and Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx, NY. Dr. Ronald Lev personally meets with each client. His team uses the latest equipment and an extensive range of vein treatment options. Call (888) 356-8346 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about how they can help.