How to prevent varicose and spider veins

Varicose and spider veins can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. As many as 40-45 percent of men and 50-55 percent of women suffer from venous insufficiency. Varicose veins typically appear in the legs and affect people over the age of 50 more than any other group. Those that have a family history of vein trouble are at an increased risk for developing these issues.

A number of conditions can cause varicose or spider veins to appear. The most common cause is the veins weakening as people age. Hormonal changes or pregnancy can also cause changes in the structure of the veins, increasing your risk of developing this condition. Those that are obese or do not move often may have trouble pumping an adequate amount of blood to the legs, causing varicose veins over time. Fair-skinned people are also at risk for damaging the veins due to excess sun exposure.

Understanding how varicose veins develop is key to preventing them in the future. Those that are at a high risk for developing this condition can reduce their chances of having to deal with developing spider veins. Those already showing signs of developing this condition can reduce some of their symptoms by following adequate prevention methods.

Controlling your weight will help ensure that there is not too much pressure on the legs. A great way to do this is to exercise regularly. Not only will walking or running help keep your weight down, but it can help improve the strength of your legs, veins and circulation. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time without moving. Shift your weight from one foot to the other when standing and try to take a short walk every 30 minutes to relieve pressure. Wearing supportive shoes that take excess weight off your lower extremities can help ease varicose vein pain. When you use the muscles in your legs, it forces blood through the veins, delivering the necessary amount to the heart and lungs. ENot only does exercise improve blood flow, but it can also help naturally balance hormones and lower blood pressure.When resting, elevate your legs to reduce the risk of swelling.

Wearing elastic stockings can provide damaged legs with additional support. Compression stockings improve circulation by putting pressure on surface arteries and veins. Compression ultimately helps the vein valves function properly, allowing blood to flow freely from your limbs to your heart, and back again. Compression stockings help both in preparing your legs before treatment, and also to help your legs recover after your procedure to prevent additional swelling.

Avoid wearing tight clothing and waistbands that may restrict blood flow and cause swelling. When it comes to sleeping, it can be helpful to sleep with pillows under your legs to keep them elevated, ultimately assisting with circulation issues. When the legs are propped up above the level of the heart, chronic swelling can be decreased.

Eating a diet that is low in salt and high in fiber can reduce constipation which can cause varicose veins. Salty foods, or foods containing too much sodium, can increase swelling which puts more pressure on veins. Foods that are highly processed and contain sugar or caffeine, can contribute to arterial damage and hormonal imbalances.

Even with these preventative measures, venous insufficiency is a progressive disorder. Painful symptoms, if left alone, can become worse without treatment. Some forms of vein disease can even lead to more serious health concerns such as: infections, ulcers, injury due to numbness, and blood clots. Only a phlebologist (vein specialist) can determine what stage your venous insufficiency has reached.

One of the most successful treatments for painful, achy varicose veins is endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). EVLT uses a thin laser fiber to seal malfunctioning veins shut, allowing healthier veins to then take over. Over time, the treated veins are absorbed by the body and disappear. Used in conjunction with ultrasound technology, EVLT allows the doctor to find the broken valves in your veins without having to use surgical processes. EVLT relieves painful symptoms almost immediately after the 15 minute procedure is complete. Compression stockings are used before, and after treatment to assist in the quick recovery process. Over the years, EVLT has become the gold standard of vein treatment because it allows patients to continue with their busy, active lives. EVLT alleviates even the most unbearable symptoms: leg swelling, heaviness, cramps, burning/itching, dull aches, numbness, skin discoloration, and non-healing wounds.

We also offer a treatment called sclerotherapy, which is designed to treat spider veins, reticular veins, and small varicose veins. Using ultrasound technology, the physician locates the problematic vein. Then, with a tiny needle, the doctor injects the vein with a salt solution that irritates the walls of the vein so that it swells and seals shut. Over time, the vein will become scar tissue, be reabsorbed into the body, and healthier veins will take over.

Since venous insufficiency is a serious medical condition, treatment of varicose veins are covered by Medicare, most insurance plans, and Medicaid. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact

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