Spider veins, which can occur on the legs, face or other areas of the body, are small red, blue or purple blood vessels that can be seen on the skin. Spider veins look like varicose veins but they are much smaller. In some cases, spider veins can cause pain or make the legs feel tired, restless or sore. Spider veins can be small and occur in areas where they are hardly noticed. They can also become large and unsightly. In these cases, there are some solutions for spider veins that can be tried.
Exercise
In some cases, spider veins are caused by an inherited condition and cannot be prevented. In other cases, obesity, lack of exercise, standing for long periods or habitually sitting with the legs crossed can contribute to this symptom.
The National Woman's Health Information Center suggests incorporating exercise into the day to help. Exercise such as walking can shed unwanted pounds, which will take pressure off the muscles and veins in the legs and it can improve circulation. Always check with a health care provider first to determine what level of exercise is safe and appropriate.
Elevate the Legs
At periods throughout the day and while sleeping, it may be helpful to elevate the legs above the level of the heart, according to the Cleveland Clinic. This will assist blood flow, as the muscles and veins will not have to work against gravity to pump the blood back up to the heart.
Elevating the legs is especially important if a job requires standing or sitting for prolonged periods or when there are other risk factors for spider veins present, such as being elderly, pregnant or on birth control and hormone medication.
Avoid Tight Clothing
When treating spider veins it is important to avoid wearing tight clothing. This includes girdles, control-top pantyhose, garters, belts and other items that fit too snugly. Tight clothing can restrict circulation and may contribute to the development of spider veins.
Consume Small Amounts of Bilberry
Bilberry is a fruit similar to blueberries that can be used when baking. For medicinal purposes it can also be used to make extracts and teas. It is sometimes called European blueberry, whortleberry or huckleberry. The National Center for Alternative and Complementary Therapy states that it has been used to treat venous insufficiency, which can contribute to spider veins.
While research does not support claims that this plant works, it is usually considered safe if consumed in small amounts for short periods. High doses or long-term consumption can be dangerous. Before taking bilberry, talk with a physician or pharmacist who can make recommendations on a safe dosage and check that it will not interact with any other medications that are being taken.
Compression Stockings
Normally the muscles in the legs contract in order to push the blood back up toward the heart. In addition, the veins contain valves that stop the blood from flowing in the wrong direction. If the valves become weak or damaged, there is underlying heart disease, or in cases of obesity, the blood may begin to pool. As this occurs, spider veins may develop that can eventually become varicose veins, warns the National Women's Health Information Center.
In these cases, compression stockings can create the needed pressure on the veins to get the blood moving again. Options include support pantyhose, over-the-counter compression stockings and prescription strength hose that need to be professionally fitted. A physician can help determine what type is best.
Sclerotherapy
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sclerotherapy involves injecting the affected blood vessels with a solution that causes the vessel to scar over. As the vessel heals it is less noticeable. It may take several treatments and months for the effects to be noticed. This treatment may cause burning or stinging sensations or discoloration near the site of injection, which usually goes away on its own soon after the procedure.
