Spider veins are extremely noticeable, and highly embarrassing, for many people today. This type of vein is red, blue, or purple in color, which tends to be very visible on a person of any complexion. Spider veins generally appear in a type of spider web or tree branch pattern, and are most often seen on the legs. While spider veins aren’t generally harmful or painful, they often have a negative impact on self confidence. Spider veins may not always be preventable, but there are some positive changes that you can make to achieve the best odds of avoiding spider veins.
Avoiding Spider Veins: What You Can Do
There are several things that you can do to avoid developing spider veins. This can include:
- Use Sunscreen Faithfully: If you use a high SPF sunscreen whenever you’re exposed to the sun, you can not only help prevent wrinkles but also spider veins.
- Avoid Crossing Your Legs: If you sit with your legs in a crossed position for an extended period of time, the blood flow can virtually come to a halt. This can cause blood vessel damage, which can result in the development of spider veins.
- Stay Active: People who are largely sedentary or who spend extended periods standing in one position have a decrease in blood flow. Try to get up and move around at least once every half hour, even if it’s just a few steps, to avoid spider veins.
- Keep Legs Elevated: When at rest, prop your legs up. This relieves pressure and helps the blood start moving in the right direction (towards your heart.) Alleviating pressure means the veins are under less stress and therefore less likely to become spider veins.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: When you’re overweight, it puts extra pressure on the veins and this raises the chances of developing spider veins.
- Use Compression Stockings: Compression stockings can help relieve pressure and reduce the chances of new spider veins.
Call the L.A. Vein Center anytime to get spider vein help!
