Spider veins in the legs and ankles are red or blue web-shaped veins that appear close to the surface of the skin. Spider veins are caused by a combination of factors including sun exposure, aging, and hormonal changes. They can arise when our legs do not receive adequate circulation. Learn about spider vein removal options from a trusted vein specialist as well as ways to prevent new spider veins from forming.
Spider veins are blue or red capillaries that have been damaged and dilated. They are generally found on the thighs, calves, and ankles, just beneath the skin’s surface. The underlying reticular veins that feed the spider veins are generally connected with them. Retinal veins are difficult to see, but they must be treated.
What Causes Them?
One of the most common causes of spider veins is genetics, so you may inherit your father’s eyes and your mother’s spider veins. Spider veins usually affect several people within a family. Birth control drugs, especially those containing estrogen, are a risk factor. Pregnancy is also a risk factor, owing to the fetus’s weight and increased blood flow. Spider veins may dissolve after pregnancy for some women, but they can also be permanent. Hormonal changes that women go through are particularly risky for causing spider veins or just becoming older.
When a person sits or stands for long periods of time, the veins in the legs have to work harder to push blood up into the heart. This can also lead to spider veins. A past blood clot or vein damage may be another factor since the valves may be damaged and unable to function correctly as a result of this. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause skin damage, including damaged blood vessels and spider veins, especially on the face.
Sclerotherapy
A saline solution or detergent is injected into the vein, causing it to become inflamed and collapse during this medical treatment. The vein is no longer visible beneath the skin once it has collapsed. One injection per inch of spider vein can be expected. The operation is short and typically painless; you can consult a vascular surgeon and see what is the best solution for you. The only sensation you will have is the prick of the needle.
Redness, stinging, swelling, and bruising are some of the negative effects. These normally pass fast and shouldn’t interfere with your daily routines. Sclerotherapy is most effective in the winter when your veins are most exposed and simplest to protect. Existing spider veins are permanently removed, but new ones might grow over time. To keep your legs clear of spider veins, you may need further treatments.
Laser Therapy
If you are allergic to the saline solution used in sclerotherapy or are uncomfortable with injections, a surface laser treatment may be a better option. Strong bursts of light are delivered through the skin to the veins, where they fade and vanish. Due to the high warmth of the laser, laser therapy is frequently uncomfortable. A cooling substance is administered to the skin after the therapy, which normally lasts around 20 minutes.
Redness and swelling, skin discoloration, and, in severe situations, scarring or burns, are all possible side effects. Laser therapy should be avoided by those with certain skin colors and disorders since it might permanently discolor the skin.
Wear Compression Socks
Compression socks and hoses are intended to provide relief from swelling and help you prevent spider veins. They gently massage your legs and ankles to encourage blood flow from your legs to your heart.
Compression hoses give extra support to your legs to help with blood circulation and to keep your veins from being stretched. Compression hoses provide pressure to certain areas of your body to aid circulation. Prescription-strength gradient compression hose requires expert installation, yet they provide even more pressure than standard support pantyhose and gradient compression hose. Hoses should be worn all the time, not only when you’re wearing a dress or skirt.
Protect Your Skin
Keeping your skin in good shape protects the veins beneath it and reduces the likelihood of spider veins showing through. Apply sunscreen to your skin. The sun’s rays injure and weaken the skin, causing veins under the surface to become more visible. Use it whenever you can to prevent spider veins from forming on your face, as well as your legs and ankles. Moisturize your skin frequently. Keeping your skin from drying out improves the suppleness and look of your skin, making spider veins less likely to come through.
Be Active
Get some exercise regularly. Leg muscles assist your veins in pushing blood back to the heart against gravity. If you have varicose veins or spider veins in your legs, any activity that strengthens the muscles in your legs can help prevent the formation of new varicose veins or spider veins. If you are overweight or obese, you must lose weight. Due to the pull of gravity, more weight makes it more difficult for your veins to return blood to your heart. Losing weight may help prevent the formation of new varicose or spider veins.
Even though they are usually painless and do not lead to some major health problems, you surely don’t want to deal with spider veins since these can make you feel insecure and uncomfortable. Check out the tips mentioned and do your best to keep your health in the right shape.
