How to Get Rid of Spider Veins

Do you hate showing off your legs because they're covered in unsightly spider veins? If so, there are several things you can do, ranging from making small changes in your daily habits to having surgery to get rid of this potentially embarrassing condition. Mahalo's guide on how to get rid of spider veins will show you how to do just that.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional financial advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.

• Spider veins appear as blue, purple or red web-like patterns across the skin and tend to occur on the legs and sometimes the face. They are usually caused because of poor circulation which then leads to broken or dilated capillaries. If you have developed spider veins suddenly, or find them painful, be sure to see your doctor, since this could be the first sign of a serious medical condition. However, spider veins are usually more of a cosmetic than medical issue.

(Creative Commons photo by DerrickT)

• If you have already developed spider veins, there is no non-surgical way to get rid of them quickly. The suggestions provided below will help prevent spider veins, help stop the condition from worsening and may improve it slightly. Since spider veins are most often caused by poor circulation, developing habits that improve circulation will help inhibit them.

1. Exercise regularly
2. Avoid sitting with your legs crossed
3. Stop wearing high heels, or do so less often
4. Elevate your legs when possible
5. Massage the afflicted areas
6. Maintain a healthy weight
7. Avoid standing in the same position for extended periods
8. Wear elastic compression stockings

• If you are looking for more immediate and visible results, speak to your doctor about medical treatments such as:

1. Sclerotherapy: A mild chemical solution is injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and, ultimately, fade
2. Laser surgery: Laser light is directed at the vein, causing it to fade
3. Phlebectomy, ligation and vein stripping are surgical methods through which the veins are either closed or removed completely

• Spider veins on the legs are usually caused by poor circulation, so virtually anything you can do to improve the flow of blood to and through your legs will help prevent them and impede their growth. If your spider veins are extreme, or if you want to get rid of them quickly, discuss the medical options with your doctor.

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