Spider and Varicose Veins

Spider and Varicose Veins be Gone!

By Kate M. D’Imperio © 2005

Show off those sexy legs!

Warmer days call for less clothing, new swimsuits and miles of sexy legs shown off just about everywhere. Unsightly spider veins and varicose veins often cause women to hide under long skirts and pants as opposed to displaying their legs, even during summer months. Spider veins typically appear on the legs as small reddish or bluish blood vessels that are visible through the skin. Usually raised above the skin, varicose veins are larger and dilated, sometimes causing discomfort.

Women and men alike may feel self-conscious when it comes to showing off their legs if they experience these undesirable veins. They may wonder where the veins came from, or why they’ve been troubled with them. Truth be told, one’s genes play a major role in whether a woman will develop varicose or spider veins, but factors like lifestyle, habits and hormones also play a part.

If a man or woman is born with weak vein valves, his or her vein walls may weaken and begin to disintegrate, causing unsightly veins. A surplus of hormones present in the body at times of puberty, pregnancy and menopause may also contribute to appearance of spider and varicose veins. Additionally, obesity, aging, injury to the legs and excessive time spent standing may also bring on these veins.

Because these pesky, unattractive blood vessels no longer function properly, it is possible to treat them in several ways without disrupting the body’s circulatory system.

Several treatments available for spider and varicose veins include:

Sclerotherapy – A doctor injects a solution into the troublesome veins, which causes the walls of the vein to swell and stick together. The veins then convert into scar tissue and fade over time. This procedure produces very effective results if done correctly, requires no anesthesia and may be conducted in a doctor’s office.

Laser surgery – Producing a sensation similar to a gentle snap of a rubber band, laser therapy works by aiming intense light at the spider and varicose veins. Lasers are exceptionally accurate and cause damage only to the targeted veins, causing them to disappear painlessly and without affecting any of the surrounding tissue.

Electrodesiccation – Similar to sclerotherapy, this form of treatment introduces an electric current to seal off the troublesome veins. Patients should be aware that scarring may occur.

Here are some things you can do to prevent spider and varicose veins:

• Don’t cross your legs when sitting.
• Try not to stand for a prolonged period of time.
• Wear sunscreen when you’ll be exposed to UV-rays.
• Exercise regularly. (Especially by walking and running)
• Avoid tight clothing and wear support stockings if you like.
• Do what you can to control your weight.