Written By: Emma Squillace
As we get older, many of us will develop spider veins. They often appear on the legs or face, and look like a web of small blue, red, or purple veins. Some people who have spider veins have no symptoms, but others suffer from itchiness, rash, or pain. In addition to causing uncomfortable symptoms for some, spider veins can give the appearance of being older. Many people who visit the West Medical offices for spider vein treatment are looking for a cosmetic improvement that will increase their confidence in their physical appearance.
If you do not have spider veins, there are some steps you can take to prevent them from forming. There are no guarantees, however, because there are factors out of our control like heredity and hormonal changes.
Exercise
Physical exercise can help prevent spider veins because it improves blood flow. When we sit for too long, it is harder for blood to flow through our veins and this can lead to spider veins as well as varicose veins. The exercise does not have to be extreme. Going for walks, yoga, and light cycling are all good ways to improve blood flow.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Carrying excess weight can increase your chances of developing spider veins. This is because those extra pounds put more pressure on veins. Losing weight can lower your risk factors for developing this type of visible veins. If you are trying to lose 30 or more pounds, bariatric surgery or a non-surgical procedure like a weight loss balloon can help.
Use Sunscreen
Pale-skinned people are especially at risk for spider veins if they don’t protect their skin from the sun’s rays. However, everyone, even those with dark complexions, can benefit from regular use of a strong sunscreen. Sun exposure can often be a risk factor for spider veins on your cheeks or nose. Remember, sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days! It’s been shown that up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can reach us even through cloud cover.
Take Breaks at Work
Standing for a long time and sitting for a long time, are both risk factors for developing spider veins. People who stand a lot for work like nurses, teachers, and retail workers should try to sit and put their feet up when possible. Those who sit all day for work, like office-workers, should stand or take short walks regularly throughout the workday. If you can take a phone call while standing, or go for a 10 minute walk after a meeting, those changes in your body position can help prevent spider veins. If you have to sit a lot, be particularly careful not to cross your legs. That can also put extra pressure on your veins.
These tips can help prevent, or lesson the impact of, spider veins for some people. For others, the combination of heredity, hormones, and other factors out of your control will mean you inevitably end up with some of these visible veins. If you have developed spider or varicose veins and would like to learn about your treatment options, we’d love to speak with you. To ask us a question or schedule a consultation, please call our offices at (855) 690-0565.