Spider veins explained: Many people confuse spider veins with varicose veins however, the two are different, not least in appearance.
Varicose veins are known for their large and bulging veins. Spider veins however get their name from the blue or red web of small veins that appear spread across the affected area. They increase with age and this is because of poor circulation of blood through the body system.
Spider veins can appear in any part of the body however they are particularly commonly found in the area behind the knee.
Spider veins explained: Causes of Spider Veins
There are many causes of spider veins that have been identified through research and laboratory tests. Causative factors include:
Heredity. Studies have indicated that if one parent suffers spider veins, the children have a higher risk of developing the condition. This is because spider veins has a genetic connection and can be easily passed from one generation to another through the family line.
Occupations. Where your daily job involves standing or sitting for long hours such as the case in hair stylists, factory workers, gatekeepers and others, you stand a higher chance of developing spider veins.
Obesity. Being overweight puts pressure on the veins in the lower limbs. This robs them of their elasticity and power to contract. When the vein muscles become weakened, the valves in them also lose their effectiveness in controlling backflow of blood and this can cause pooling of blood hence spider veins.
Hormonal influences. During pregnancy, expectant mothers experience increased hormonal discharge which accelerates the rate of blood flow in the body. This increased circulation overwhelms the blood vessels hence weakening them. This potentially causes spider veins.
Apart from the above causes, spider veins may come as a result of previous injuries, a history of blood clots and trauma.
Signs and Symptoms
People suffering from spider veins often complain of cramping or aching on the leg muscles. This is often accompanied by restlessness, tiredness and heaviness in the legs. This is due to the accumulated blood in the veins and the inability of the valves to prevent the back-flow of blood.
The appearance of small web-like purple or blue veins close to the skin surface is among the significant signs and symptoms of spider veins. The coloration of the vessels is due to the deoxygenated blood pooled in them.
In advanced cases, sufferers of spider veins experience skin ulcers and irritation close to the veins. Because of the small nature of the veins and the weakened walls, excess pressure from the pooling blood causes them to rupture hence shallow wounds. Whenever these wounds are cited, the affected person must seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid worsening of the situation.
Treatment Options for Spider Veins
People suffering from spider veins are advised to seek medical attention the moment they start feeling discomfort. Symptoms include itchiness or pain or the development of skin ulcers. There are two main categories of treatment; surgical and non-surgical procedures.
If the problem is as a result of pregnancy or medication it is likely that they will disappear of their own accord when your body settles down to normality. Otherwise they may appear unsightly (to varying degrees) but are unlikely to cause any concern and any treatment therefore for cosmetic reasons only.
Spider veins explained: Non-Surgical Treatments
There lifestyle changes you can make and action you can take right now which will help:
Varicose veins creams.
This is the preferred solution for spider veins because it is cheaper and safe compared to conventional treatment. These creams (as opposed to oral medication) are more effective because they are applied directly on the affected area. The ingredients typically consist of Aloe Vera, Vitamin A, E and K, Isopropyl Myristate, and Potassium Cetyl Phosphate. The resulting formula will work to soothe the skin and reverse any abnormality in the veins including weakened valves. It will also help keep veins in good health and hence reduce the risk of further problems.
Compression stockings.
This is a conservative approach which involves wearing of leggings and tightly fitting stockings to help fight off the painful and uncomfortable symptoms. The stockings work because they exert pressure on the muscles hence helping them to contract and push blood back to the heart. They come in different varieties including above the knee, below the knee and in pantyhose styles. They are also available in different strengths and it’s important you ask advice at the counter to make sure you get the right strength for your body.
Lifestyle changes.
Watching your weight, skin hygiene, exercising and what you eat means you can reduce the risk and impact. It doesn’t have to be drastic either … taking more walks or swimming are some of the best forms of exercise you can do.
Surgical Treatments For Spider Veins
Surgical treatments are only recommended under extreme conditions. They include litigation, stripping, and ambulatory phlebectomy. These involve tying off and removal of the affected veins.
There are just two main treatments though:
Sclerotherapy.
This involves the injection of a salt based solution directly into the affected ares which causes the veins to collapse and wither away. The blood will then automatically find an alternative route and the patch will disappear.
Laser Treatment:
By firing powerful lasers into the affected area tiny blood clots will form. These then block off the spider veins and, as above, the blood has to find an alternative route meaning that the obsoleter veins will wither and disappear.
You can read more about Surgical Treatment Of Varicose Veins . In the case of spider veins it’s unlikely that this will be a preferred option though but seek medical advice if you are concerned.
Spider Vein Cream
Spider veins explained: There are a number of over the counter treatments and creams on the market today. One of the newest editions being Venorex. It’s a professional strength varicose and spider vein cream. It’s proving really effective and building quite a reputation as both a treatment cream and a preventative defence.
You can read our Venorex review here >>> or CLICK HERE to find out all about this amazing product.
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