You know those small, colorful, wispy veins that can sometimes be visible in your legs, or maybe even on your face? Although these spider veins may look scary, they pose almost no serious threat to you, even though the veins may appear red, purple and blue – colors you’re likely not used to seeing just under your skin.
Varicose veins are similar but tend to be larger, raised or swollen.
Both types of these colorful, noticeable veins may be accompanied by pain, swelling or an itchy rash.
A backup of blood in the veins causes spider veins. This occurs when blood is pumped through the veins on the way to the heart flows back into veins with weakened or damaged valves, which allows blood to collect in the area and become visible.
Spider veins become varicose veins when the backed-up blood is of a sufficient quantity to make the veins larger.
Hormone changes, sun exposure, and injury can also cause spider veins. Those with a genetic predisposition for spider veins are more likely to get them. People who are on their feet all day – for example, hairdressers, waitstaff, or teachers – make their veins in their legs work harder to pump blood back to the heart, which increases their risk of developing spider or varicose veins.
Treatment for Spider and Varicose Veins
Solutions that can help you get rid of spider and varicose veins include:
Support stockings or pantyhose, worn under your pants or with skirts and dresses, can provide some relief if your spider or varicose veins are causing you discomfort or pain in your legs. This works because applying just enough pressure on your calves keeps blood circulating and prevents blood back up. Compression stockings can be purchased at any department store and are a low-cost approach to alleviating the symptoms of spider and varicose veins.
Lifestyle changes such as weight loss – or just finding more opportunities to stay active – can help prevent the appearance of spider and varicose veins. Taking more walks during the day helps keep your blood flowing.
Laser treatments
If the symptoms accompanying your spider or varicose veins are particularly bothersome, there are several laser treatments that can cause the veins to dissolve and become nearly nonexistent. Because some treatments are more complicated than others, and some even require anesthesia, talk to your doctor about your laser treatment options.
Call the Vein Institute & MediSpa in Kingwood, Texas, today at (281) 312-0208 to consult with our medical experts. You can also request an appointment online to discuss spider vein or varicose vein treatments that may be right for you.
