Don't Let Spider and Varicose Veins Ruin those Legs

Wearing skirts and shorts is a wonderful way of showcasing those long sexy legs you've been working on at the gym. But varicose veins, those unsightly lines that seem to crawl out under your skin could dampen even the most stunning legs.

Spider and Varicose Veins

Spider veins appear because of poor blood circulation. This accumulates in the blood vessels and appears as bulges. Varicose veins usually appear on the thighs and legs but it is not limited to these areas. This condition can be seen in any area where blood accumulates and is near the skin. Although varicose and spider veins are results of blood accumulation, varicose are large while spider veins are smaller.

Common Causes

Spider and varicose veins can be seen in both men and women. However, women are highly at risk for this condition especially during pregnancy. The additional weight of a growing baby could place huge stress on the lower body. It is also commonly seen in older people. Genetics or a family of varicose and spider veins could also increase you risk for developing this condition.

• Weight gain
• Prolonged periods of standing
• Pregnancy
• Health conditions which lead to blood clotting
• Vein disorders
• Inflammation of the veins 

Spider and varicose veins are highly visible. This could be unsightly and could affect how you carry or choose your clothes. It can be depressing and could affect a woman's confidence. Women may be forced to wear pants or thick stockings to hide these.

Some of the symptoms associated with spider and varicose veins include cramping, aches and swelling in the affected parts of the body. But the effects of unsightly veins go beyond its physical symptoms. People with spider veins also experience mental and emotional disorders as a result. It can lower your self-esteem and affect your personal relationships.

But varicose and spider veins are not inevitable. These could easily be avoided with a few tips. Below are simple ways to prevent varicose and spider veins from appearing.

• Avoid standing for long periods. Take a break and rest those legs from time to time. Even a few minutes sitting down could go a long way in resting your veins and legs.
• Wear high and low heels alternately. If your working attire requires high heels, make sure that you have low heels stored in your office.
•  Ensure proper blood flow by not wearing tight stockings or pants for long periods. Wearing these could constrict the flow of blood and disrupt normal circulation.
• Give your veins and legs a break by elevating them at night. If your job requires you to sit for long periods, crossing, standing or walking for a few minutes can help.
• Wear compression hose to prevent varicose and spider veins from appearing.

But if you find yourself with these unsightly lines, help is available. Leg vein treatments may just be what your doctor or fashion consultant ordered.

Wearing compression stockings do not only prevent spider veins but are also effective in treating it. Medical interventions for varicose treatment are laser and endovenous treatments, sclerotherapy and surgery.

Sclerotherapy is a type of treatment that uses chemicals or medications. These are then injected to the area to lighten dark colored veins. However, multiple treatments are required. The procedure is done over a period of one to one and a half months. Some people may not respond similarly to treatment because it is limited to skin color. Surgical intervention for varicose and spider veins are used to cut the supply the flow of blood to these veins or improve blood flow in these areas.

So if you ever find yourself suffering from these conditions, remember that treatments are available. However, these are also preventable. And keeping in mind simple tips on how to avoid varicose veins could keep your legs looking young and healthy.