What Can I Do to Prevent Spider Veins?
- Posted on: Aug 15 2021
Spider veins are not nearly as concerning as varicose veins. At least that is what a lot of people believe. While varicose veins do create more uncomfortable symptoms than their smaller counterparts, the frustration that spider veins can cause should not be diminished. We certainly don’t think that a person with spider veins should accept them because they “aren’t as bad” as varicose veins. Of course, not! In our NYC dermatology office, we provide treatment for both types of problematic veins.
People with spider veins or a history of spider veins in their family may want to know what they can do to prevent this problem from occurring or getting worse. While it is not possible to completely eliminate risks, there are strategies that can work to reduce venous pressure in the legs and promote optimal venous circulation. Supporting these two goals is pretty easy. Five tips we recommend include:
- Move. This seems like a simple enough tactic. Many people we meet already have a regular workout routine. This can work against them, actually. When one works out daily, they may believe they are getting enough movement in their life. For fitness, this may be true. For vascular health, probably not. Going for a long walk in the morning cannot offset the risks of spending the next 8 hours sitting at a desk. The legs need movement. Sit for no longer than an hour without getting up and moving for about 5 minutes.
- Elevate. There are several benefits to elevating the legs. Some people do this every night before bed to promote better sleep! Elevating the legs can look different for everyone. One might watch television in a recliner or with their feet on an ottoman. One may lie on the floor and place their bent legs on a chair or sofa. One may even lie on the floor and put the length of the backs of their legs up a wall. All of these postures work to reduce venous pressure and help blood exit the legs more efficiently.
- Wear the right shoes. High heels are getting a bad rap for increasing the risk of spider and varicose veins. The problem with high heels is that they create a foot and leg position that increases the pressure in leg veins. Where there is more pressure, there is less flow.
- Wear sunscreen. If a person applies sunscreen at all, it is usually on areas like the face, shoulders, chest, and arms. If a person applies sunscreen at all, it is also usually when they plan to be outdoors for hours. The thing about sunscreen and spider veins (and other sun damage) is that it needs to be worn every day on all exposed areas, even the legs.
- Sit with good posture. Crossing the legs and sitting cross-legged may feel comfortable but it is not good for circulation. These postures increase venous pressure and are known to cause spider veins. Just look at the back or side of a person’s knees and you may see clusters of visible veins!
We offer proven vein treatments in our NYC office. Call 212.391.8600 today to schedule your consultation.
Posted in: Leg Vein Removal
