Spider veins are blood vessels that are swollen with blood and they are usually raised above the surface of the skin. One might ask what spider veins look like but they are easily seen with the naked eye. They usually form in a “cluster” instead of in just one vein. Often they also twist and turn and most of the time they are found in the legs.
Spider veins are smaller than varicose veins but they can be just as irritating and painful. Sometimes they can be found on the face and this is particularly aggravating to the person who suffers from them. There are a number of things that can cause spider veins. Often they are hereditary and are passed from mother to child through genes. Some occupations also contribute to the development of spider veins such as standing or walking a lot. Professions that are particularly susceptible are nurses, beauticians, and teachers.
Spider veins can also develop as a result of obesity or hormonal imbalances such as those experienced during pregnancy or menopause. Sometimes people who have taken birth control pills will also find they experience spider veins. It is estimated that as many as 60% of all adults have spider veins to some degree.
Symptoms of spider veins include pain such as an aching or cramping pain in the legs where the spider veins are located. Some people complain of being tired because it hurts to stand on their legs for very long. Other spider vein symptoms include restlessness, tingling, throbbing pain, burning, or a heaviness in the leg area. For someone who experiences this type of pain they will find that they usually will get relief when they elevate their legs. Relief can also be found by wearing support hose that provide pressure and support to the area of the veins.
Other, more bothersome spider vein symptoms are swelling of the legs, the development of ulcers, or sores, and an increase in the skin pigmentation around the area. This can be especially true around the area of the ankles. There is also the possibility that spider veins can cause a blood clot to the affected area. It this happens it is vitally important for you to consult a doctor immediately since this could possibly be life threatening.
Fortunately there are several options for people who suffer from spider vein symptoms. Often elevating the feet and legs will be all that is necessary. If this only provides temporary relief you might need to wear support hose throughout the day and into the evening. This provides support to the area and prevents the spreading of the veins.
You may also need to look at making some changes in your lifestyle. If you are overweight you should make an attempt to lose down to a more normal weight. Surprisingly a regular regimen of walking can also be beneficial to the symptoms of spider veins. Walking helps to build the muscles and enlarge the veins and allow for better blood flow. Lowering your intake of salt will help keep your legs from swelling.
If these simple treatments do not provide you relief you may need to consult your doctor to discuss medical treatments that can provide long lasting relief.
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