Preventing Spider Veins

Spider veins, somewhat similar to varicose veins, are small bundles of veins that start spearing on the surface of the skin. These veins are blue and red in color and can appear anywhere in the body—arms, legs and even face. Spider veins look a lot like varicose veins but are much smaller and do not cause any pain.
Spider veins present no health issues. However, you might dislike them for cosmetic reasons. These days, because of the lifestyle changes, many people have spider veins and they resort to cosmetic surgery and herbal remedies and treatments. The easiest way to deal with spider veins though, is adopting a healthy lifestyle.

There are several causes of spider veins—prolonged physical activity or just standing or sitting in one place, pregnancy and genetics are some of the chief ones. It is poor blood circulation that leads to spider veins. When a lot of pressure is exerted on the veins, they start appearing through the skin. Sitting and standing for a long time also contribute to this.

There are other lifestyle choices that cause spider veins. Wearing high heeled shoes, obesity, excessive exposure to sunlight, tight clothing, and birth control pills also cause spider veins. In addition to that, spider veins could also be the cause of side effects of a medicine that you have been taking. A little bit of adjustment in your lifestyle can ensure that you never have to go through the distress of having spider veins. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Heat and sun can build up pressure in the veins causing Spider veins. If you have no choice but to be in the sun, wear a good sun block or a sun screen with a SPF of at least 20. If you like taking long relaxing baths, do it with caution. Immersing your legs in hot water for a long period of time can also cause spider veins.

Wear well fitting clothes that are comfortable and allow free blood circulation. Even tight fitting shoes should be avoided. Keep doing some physical activity. Sitting or standing in one place for too long is also not good. Try to eat a balanced diet so that you maintain a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy weight will not only prevent spider veins but will also keep you away from many lifestyle diseases. Improve leg strength by going on brisk walks, cycling or just exercising regularly. While resting, keep your legs elevated to help release the pressure on the veins. While sitting, try not to cross your legs.