What are spider and varicose veins?
Spider veins are small, thread-like veins that are close to the surface of the skin and look blue, purple or red. They can measure between 0.5 and 3 millimeters in diameter and commonly develop in the legs, face and often around the ankles.
Varicose veins are larger than spider veins and can look like a tangled rope under the skin. They grow in size over time due to the weakening of a blood vessels wall and can appear swollen or clustered. Varicose veins can measure 3 millimeters or larger in diameter and commonly develop in the legs and pelvic area.
What causes spider and varicose veins?
Although there is no exact cause of these veins, there are several factors that can lead to developing them:
- Genetics/history of blood clots
- Age
- Sun exposure
- Vein injury
- Prolonged standing/sitting with legs crossed
- Being overweight
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control and hormone replacement therapy)
- Wearing tight clothes or undergarments
Are there symptoms?
Typically, symptoms may include:
- Swollen leg(s)
- Muscle cramps
- Aching, burning, throbbing or heaviness in the legs
- Discoloration of the skin (can be brown-colored)
- Inflammation of the skin
- Painful clots in the vein (phlebitis)
- Ulcerations
- Bleeding from varicose veins
Are they preventable?
Although statistics show that 60% of women and men suffer from some form of vein disorder, you can still take steps to improve your health and well-being before treatment becomes necessary:
- Exercise by walking, dancing, jogging, cycling or swimming to help improve circulation by strengthening the leg muscles that push blood up the vein.
- Sit with the legs elevated. When on a long trip, get out of the car every hour and walk around.
- Maintain an appropriate body weight.
- Wear prescribed therapeutic support stockings if you're pregnant, sit/stand frequently or are confined to bed after an illness or surgery.
- Use adequate sun protection on your face and neck.
- Wear low heeled shoes and the appropriate athletic shoes when exercising to help reduce the possibilities of injury to the calf muscles.
How do I know if my veins need treatment?
Dr. Mackay and his skilled team will assist you in setting up a free screening consultation ultrasound at one of their two convenient locations. A medical history will be taken and a non-invasive and pain-free ultrasound will be taken of your legs to further determine if you are at-risk. |
