Varicose Veins and Spider Veins treatment can be challenging. When you realize blue/purple veins that are either large or tiny on your lower leg, then you might be suffering from varicose or spider veins. They are often common as we grow old. But that’s not the only factor that causes them. There are various factors that you won’t believe can cause these conditions. All of which you will find out in this article.
Spider veins and varicose veins are often associated with discomfort, pain and lack of confidence. Through their appearance on the lower legs, it always forces affected persons to change their dressing code and feel ashamed to expose their lower legs.
Therefore, if you are affected by these conditions, you need not worry, in this article, you will be able to self diagnose effectively and also treat yourself. Moreover, you will get enlightened on the various causes of these conditions that you can avoid. There are various forms of treatments available in the market, with each accompanied by different expenses and requirements. the major modes of treatments include medical, home remedies, use of varicose veins creams, varicose veins patches and also a blue light tool for varicose.
What are varicose veins and spider veins?
Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins that are overfilled by blood. They often appear on the surface of the legs skin as bluish cords. The swelling of the veins often needs treatment as it can become very itchy and painful. At times it can affect the performance of the legs. In extreme cases, the veins can rapture or even worse, developing into ulcerations on the leg skin.
Spider veins are smaller compared to varicose veins. They appear as threads of veins and red in colour. They can be seen under the surface of the skin on the legs or face, but they cause no swelling. They have a spider web shape hence the name or may look like a tree.
Causes
Valves in the blood vessels serve to maintain the flow in one direction. In situations where the valves are damaged or weak, the blood pools in the vein. And in the subsequent supply of the blood into the vein, the pressure builds and causes a swell on the vessel. And since the veins have less muscle to support intense pressure of the blood, they become varicose.
Varicose veins occur in the legs. They are far from the heart and experiences maximum gravity that makes the upward flow of blood difficult. There are certain factors which contribute to this condition. Some of them include sex, age, pregnancy, obesity, history of a family, sitting or standing for long hours, and menopause.
- Pregnancy
During pregnancy, there is an increase both in weight and blood of the mother due to the growing fetus. This, in turn, causes an increase in pressure on the legs as it supports the body weight. As the fetus grows, more and more pressure of both blood and weight exerts intense pressure on the legs veins. This results in the swelling of the veins resulting in varicose and spider veins.
- Sex
Females are more susceptible to both spider and varicose veins than males. This increases their chances of suffering from this condition. The main contributing factor is the hormonal changes that are more frequent in females than males. This can be due to menopause, pre-menstruation, pregnancy and much more. The presence of these hormones in the blood tends to cause relaxation of the veins wall. A relaxed wall is more prone to swelling when there is an increase in blood pressure. The treatments for hormones such as pills for controlling birth raise the chances of suffering from varicose veins.
- Obesity
Being overweight increases the susceptibility of this condition to a person. The excess weight exerts pressure on the veins, which in turn increases the pressure of the blood. And since the veins have less muscular support, they bulge or swell due to blood pressure. And this results in spider and varicose veins.
- History of the family
In certain cases, the condition can be inherited through genes. Thus, if there is a parent with the condition, there is a high likelihood of the offspring’s getting it too.
- Sitting or standing for long hours
Sitting or standing for long hours affects the normal blood flow. For instance, when you remain standing for a longer period, there is an intense pressure exerted on the legs. This pressure also applies to the veins causing swelling. While when sited for long hours, it results in muscle cramps that interfere with blood flow. These two conditions make one susceptible to varicose veins.
- Age
As one age, the body tissues begin to wear out. This includes the valves the control the blood flow in the legs. With time, the valves begin having gaps or become weaker. As a result, there is blood backflow that pools in the veins rather than flowing towards the heart.
- Menopause
Menopause in women increases their chances of suffering from this condition. At this stage, they are prone to gaining weight, which forms the first factor of causing vein swelling. Second, they experience high hormonal production as well as wearing of tissues due to age. Therefore, at menopause, there are higher chances of a female getting this condition.
Symptoms
- The veins have a blue or dark purple color
- Around the affected area, the skin loses color
- Itchy and dry skin that has a thin appearance on the varicose veins
- The ankle and feet swell
- Generally, the legs become achy and feel heavier than usual.
- Throbbing or burning feeling in your legs.
- Experiencing muscle cramps, which are more severe at night.
- Highly visible veins which are twisted and enlarged.
- In certain cases, there is bleeding or ulcerations on the affected part of the leg.
Complications
Suffering from varicose veins without treatment has the potential to cause the following health complications in the body.
Bleeding the swelling veins close to the skin surface may occasionally burst. This is considering the skin at the swelling section is fragile. Therefore, they may burst due to intense pressure or external causes such as scratch. In such a situation, you will need to seek medical attention immediately.
Clotting of blood apart from visible swelling of veins on the skin surface, occasionally, it may occur deep within the skin. In such situations, the swelling may persist for a longer period, resulting into pain and aching of the leg. In such a case, it indicates the occurrence of blood clots (thrombophlebitis) which require immediate medical attention.
Ulcerations due to longer exposure to varicose veins, ulcers may begin to form. They often occur close to the ankle and they are very painful. It usually begins as a discolouration on the skin then followed by an ulcer development. You should seek medical attention in case it occurs.
TREATMENT
Varicose Vein Creams
This is the simplest and less intricate solution to treat varicose veins and spider veins. Also known as topical solutions, varicose vein creams are applied directly on top of the affected area. For effectiveness, the application is done regularly on the area affected.
Some of these creams are applied as the normal lotion and they are immediately absorbed by the skin. Other types have to be massaged for optimal absorption and effectiveness in the affected region.
Varicose vein creams are manufactured in various forms. Each type of cream exhibits different scents, the volume of oil, and texture which caters for different types of skins.
How does it work?
After application of varicose vein cream on the affected area, it is quickly absorbed deep into the tissue. The cream works by reducing the inflammation of the veins. This is by strengthening and toning up of the affected vein walls and valves. Through this, the normal blood circulation is regained and the pools of blood in the vein pushed towards the heart.
Additionally, the creams have anti-inflammatory extracts that reduce the swells after a short period of time. Also has a property that stimulates tissue regeneration both on the affected vein and blistered skin. Therefore, the cream works in treating both deep varicose veins as well as those exposed on the skin surface.
Through the use of the cream, you get to avoid surgical treatments which can be quite painful and expensive. Last but not least, the use of creams guarantees the rejuvenation of the worn-out and discolored skin as a result of these conditions.
Varicose Veins patches
Varicose veins patches are perfect options for both varicose veins and spider veins. The patches are compost of herbal essence which is natural and they are an effective form of treatment. For those who are sensitive towards oil and cream treatment, these are great options. As the patch has a sticky surface which you place directly on top of the affected area. For the safety of users, the patch has a surface which is breathable for the comfort of the skin. Also, it contains antibacterial property to prevent any infection as well as anti-allergy property for those with skin allergies.
How varicose vein patches work
The active ingredients with the properties to treat the inflammation and rejuvenate the worn-out skin are placed on the sticky surface. When you stick the patch on the affected area, the active ingredients immediately get absorbed deep in the skin. They work by relieving the pain and inflammation of the affected veins. Additionally, they promote the active circulation of blood from the legs towards the heart. Last but not least, they serve to remove all the toxins that are accumulating around the area affected.
Varicose veins oil therapy
Essential oils are natural remedies for both spider and varicose veins. They serve to boost the circulation of the blood and therefore reduce the swollen veins. Also, they are effective in calming down the pain as a result of these conditions. Lavender oil is the most common of the essential oils. It’s often applied in aromatherapy to calm down pain and inflammation. As per the findings of Ann Arbor Institute of Massage Therapy below are essential oils that are best in boosting blood circulation, calming pain and have anti-inflammatory properties.
| Essential oil to boost circulation | Anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties |
| Cypress | ginger |
| Rose | chamomile |
| Lemon | spearmint |
| Tangerine | peppermint |
| Grapefruit | myrrh |
| Sage | frankincense |
| Helichrysum | vetiver |
Blue light tool for varicose
Apart from the pain and discomfort that spider veins and varicose veins cause, they can also ruin your style of dressing. When they occur on your leg, they cause discoloration and swellings that requires one to wear clothing that covers up the affected area.
But with a Blue light tool for varicose, all your worries are covered, this tool is an efficient treatment option. It gets rids of the swellings and skin discoloration within a short period of time. Therefore, allowing you to dress up in shorts and short dresses with confidence
How does it work?
Blue light tool for varicose is a tool with a special formulation that naturally treats the swellings of the veins. It uses a stable heat of 42 degrees together with Bio microcurrent to effectively treat the veins. It works by promoting detoxification of the lymph, reducing pain and diminishing the inflammation.
It’s powerful enough to combat against varicose veins and spider veins on the legs. The application of this device shows positive results after a few uses on the affected area. Also, it’s applicable to other parts of the body such as the face, cheeks, and nose in fighting against acne.
Home remedies
Moving
Avoid long periods of sitting or standing in one position. If your occupation requires long durations of standing or sitting, aim at moving around from time to time. Also changing the sitting posture comes in handy in ensuring efficient blood flow. Additionally, restrict yourself from crossing legs while sitting down. It may feel comfortable, but it actually restricts the flow of blood. This can greatly contribute to blood circulation complications in the legs.
Massage
Use a moisturizer or massaging oils to massage around the areas affected gently. Through gentle massage, the blood flow is boosted enabling quick recovery. Moreover, this will have optimal effects in case there are deep tissue varicose veins. However, since the affected veins are fragile, avoid direct massage on them. This may rapture or increase damage to the affected veins. Instead, massage around them, and the effect will be transmitted indirectly to them.
Elevating the legs
Elevating the legs reduces the gravity exerting an opposing pressure to blood flow while standing. This is done by elevating both your legs at the same level as the heart or slightly above. This will boost blood circulation and improve the rate of recovery. Moreover, through legs elevation, rather than gravity opposing blood flow to the heart, it instead helps in the smooth flow of blood to the heart.
Avoid tight clothing
Tight cloth especially the pants, applies pressure on the blood vessels. This restricts the blood circulation and contributes to complications in blood flow. Considering the veins have little muscle, excess pressure results into bulging. Therefore, it’s imperative to wear non-restrictive clothes for smooth blood circulation. Additionally, avoid high heels; they have a restriction to blood flow. Consider flat shoes, they are a great option for legs with varicose veins. They help in the healing process.
Herbal remedies
As per the findings of the National Institute of Health, consuming the seed extract of grapes (Vitis vinifera) come in handy. It helps lower legs swelling reduction when you take it orally. Additionally, it reduces chronic venous symptoms. However, when you are on medication for blood thinning, avoid this remedy. Through its interaction with this medication, the seed extract of grapes increases the chances of bleeding.
- Consume more Flavonoids
Through taking meals with Flavonoids, you improve the rate of shrinking varicose veins. Flavonoids come in handy in boosting blood circulation in the body. Through efficient blood circulation, the chances of venous pooling are very low. Therefore, apart from using it as a remedy for treating varicose veins, it’s a great option to protect yourself from contracting it. Additionally, they help in reducing the arterial blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessel. And through this, there is a reduction in varicose veins.
The main foods that will supply your body with Flavonoids include vegetables (bell pepper, onions, broccoli, and spinach); fruits (cherries, grapes, citrus fruits, blueberries, and apples) others (garlic and cocoa).
- Changing diets
Intake of foods rich in sodium or salt increases the body absorption and retention of water. This greatly contributes to the swelling of the lower legs. You should, therefore, cut down on such foods. Alternatively, consuming foods rich in potassium boosts the body ability to reduce water uptake and retention.
Foods that will supply you with enough potassium include:
- Fish such as tuna and salmon
- Leafy vegetables
- Potatoes
- White beans and lentils
- Pistachio and almond nuts
Additionally consuming foods rich in fiber are great in preventing valve damage. Through fiber intake, you prevent constipation; this, in turn, reduces strain that damages further the valves when helping yourself in the latrine.
Foods that will supply you with enough fiber include:
- Whole-grain types of foods
- Seeds, legumes, and nuts
- Flaxseed, wheat, and oats
- Extracts from plants
According to studies in 2006, the extract from horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) is useful in people with chronic venous insufficiency (Varicose vein main causative agent). It works by calming down leg pain, itchiness, and heaviness.
Another study review from a report in 2010 indicates that extracts from Butcher’s broom (Ruscus aculeatus) and sea pine (Pinus maritime) have a potential to reduce the swelling on leg (edema) which is often linked to varicose veins.
NOTE: you should dilute the extract from plants in carrier oils first before application in the affected area or before using it in an aromatherapy diffuser.
- Compression stocking
They are made from a medical point of view. The pressure they exact on your leg is just enough to boost blood flow from the legs to the heart. They come in handy when you need to reduce the varicose veins and also the pain associated with it.
According to 2018 study on the use of compression stocking, the report indicates a positive result after a week. The compression stockings relieved the aching and pain that accompanies varicose veins. In this case, stockings had a compression pressure of 18 – 21 mmHg.
Thus, apart from using various remedies in treating your varicose vein, having a compression stocking is a good option. It works with any sort of treatment.
Exercise
Exercise should be done on a regular basis. Through routine exercise, you boost the blood circulation in the veins. And through blood circulation, the pool of blood in the vein is pushed along and reduces with time. Additionally, through the exercises, you lower the pressure of blood which is part of the main cause of varicose veins.
However, during the exercises, ensure you do low impact workouts on your calf muscle without straining them. They are more effective in boosting the circulation of blood in the pooling veins. Some of these exercises include yoga, cycling, walking, and swimming.
Exercises are also essential to people with overweight. It enables them to lose the excess weight that exerts pressure on their legs veins. Therefore, cutting down on weight reduces swelling, heaviness, and discomfort. Moreover, overweight is also part of the major causes of varicose veins.
Medical Treatments
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is another type of medical treatment that is carried out by a physician. In certain instances, it serves to complement Sclerotherapy. When the two medical procedures are carried out together, the result is outstanding. The treatment works best when you need treatment for spider veins or varicose veins that are tiny.
Laser therapy comes in handy to people who have a phobia for needles. This treatment works through using a beam of light. The affected vessel is heated until it all disintegrates and fades off. However this treatment also has side effects and they include skin discoloration, swelling, redness on the treated zone and blisters.
Sclerotherapy
When home remedies are not promising in the treatment of the varicose veins, then medical procedures from a professional is what you may need. Sclerotherapy comes in handy in the treatment of both the spider and varicose veins. It is professionally done by a physician. The medical procedure for this form of treatment relies on the size and location of the affected veins. It is an effective method and is often applied for cosmetic purposes.
During the treatment process, there is no administration of anesthesia; instead, a liquid solution will be administered directly into your vein that is affected. Through this, the vein collapses and disintegrates. For optimal outcome, you will have to take several sessions.
But despite the promising results, there are side effects that you may encounter as a result of this treatment. Some of the effects include swelling, bruising, bleeding, skin discoloration and infection.
Endo-venous laser
Endo-venous treatment is the least invasive when it comes to surgical procedures. It basically involves the use of laser light. The light gets released into the affected vein through a fiber which is thin. The laser light serves to slim the swollen vein. The success rate of this surgical procedure is rated at 98% with the process often carried out under light or local sedation. When Endo-venous is compared to ligation and stripping, it has a faster recovery with less pain.
Vein surgery
When the varicose veins are severe and no other remedy can apply for treatment, surgery is the last resort. There are various kinds of surgical processes that the medical practitioner will explain to you. Through this, you will have a choice on which among them you will prefer.
Among the surgical procedures are ligation and stripping of the vein. Ligation involves tying the vein which is affected, while Stripping involves removing the vein surgically through an incision made on the skin.
The procedure is done after administration of anesthesia under general, local or spinal option. And it is often carried out in a hospital. Recovery from the procedure takes a couple of weeks and in most cases, you have to spend a night in the medical centre. Potential risks from vein surgery include bleeding, infections, scarring, and injury of a nerve or blood clot in the deep vein.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Similar to Endo-venous surgery, Radiofrequency Ablation is also the least invasive when it comes to surgical procedure for treatment. Rather than heating the affected vein using a beam of light, this particular procedure uses radiofrequency energy. The energy is channelled into the vein using a catheter. The impact is similar to the vein contracts from its initial swelling state. Also, when compared to ligation and stripping surgical procedures, Radiofrequency Ablation offers a faster recovery with less pain.
CONCLUSION
The above methods of treatments are effective in ensuring you get treated. But due to the difference in genetic makeup among people, it’s not often that the method you choose will work for you. Therefore, you can shift among the various treatments to find out which one suit you best, for example trying out varicose veins patches or varicose veins cream. They require the least skills and they are inexpensive compared to other methods. Thus they allow you to buy both types for tryouts. But if you need quick results for cosmetic reasons Blue light tool for varicose device is what you will need.