Morning Mix

Actions

Spider and Varicose Veins- Causes and Treatments

Posted at 11:30 AM, Jun 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-08 11:30:22-04

Summer is almost here, and that has many of us breaking out our warm weather wardrobe. But if you have spider or varicose veins, you may not be as ready to pull out the shorts or skirts.

Varicose veins are large, raised, swollen blood vessels that twist and turn. They usually develop in the legs and can be seen through the skin.

Spider veins are a milder form of varicose veins. They are smaller and can be red, purple, or blue.

Spider veins are easily visible through the skin, as well. We treat them on the legs, but they may also appear on the face. While spider veins are not dangerous, they can make people self-conscious.

Factors that cause varicose and spider veins are age, pregnancy, obesity, lack of movement, and sun exposure.

Some ways that can help people reduce the risk of spider or varicose veins, or stop them from becoming worse are:

  • Wear sunscreen
  • Avoid high heels
  • Walk or run regularly to strengthen muscles and circulation
  • Maintain a healthy weight to allow optimal blood flow
  • Elevate legs when resting
  • Wear compression stockings.

Spectrum Health Medical Group’s Vein Center provides innovative treatment that could give you faster results with less discomfort. If you want to know more information about vein treatments, you can call them at (616) 267-8346.