7 Natural Ways to Prevent Spider Veins
Spider veins are just like varicose veins only smaller. They appear like a spider web or a tree branch close to the surface of the skin and can be blue, purple or red. There are several factors that can lead to the development of spider veins such as obesity, contraceptives, blood clots, family predisposition, hormonal imbalances or even sitting or standing for long periods of time. Spider veins usually develop in the legs and sometimes on other body parts and can be itchy, painful or cause the area to swell.
In this article we will discuss a few natural ways that you can use to prevent the development of spider veins. These can also help alleviate the pain, inflammation or discomfort if you already have the spider veins:
1.Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen will help to protect your skin from the sun. This will ensure that your blood vessels remain constricted below the skin surface; it is therefore a great way of preventing spider veins from developing especially on the face. Sunscreen also protects the skin from harmful UV rays that can damage your skin and therefore leave the blood vessels exposed.
2.Exercise
Regular exercise greatly improves the blood circulation within your body. Your exercises should be focused more on the legs such as walking and jogging. This will also increase your leg strength to be able to carry your body weight. Regular exercise also helps greatly in maintaining a healthy body weight; which also prevents the formation of spider veins because there is not too much pressure being exerted on the legs.
3.Avoid sitting or standing for too long
Sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time puts a lot of pressure on your legs which can lead to development of spider veins. When sitting avoid the habit of crossing your legs as that limits the circulation of blood to your legs. If you have to sit down for an extended period of time, ensure that after about every 30 minutes you stand up and take short walks. If you must stand for longer periods of time, maybe due to the nature of your profession, shift the weight of your body from one leg to the other every few minutes.
4.Elevate your legs
When resting or at least 3 times every day, elevate your legs so that they are above the level of your heart. This will relieve pressure from your legs as the blood vessels will transport blood to your much easily. Practicing this trick on a regular basis will help prevent the formation of spider veins on your legs.
5.Wear Stockings
If you are particularly at risk of developing varicose veins or spider veins due to a number of factors, you should wear elastic stockings. For therapeutic effects, get prescription high pressure socks, however they have to be fitted by a trained professional. It is advisable that you avoid wearing tight clothes or boots that may constrict your groin, waist or legs.
6.Avoid high heels
Wearing high heeled shoes for long periods of time increases the pressure on your legs and limits circulation of blood and can lead to development of spider veins. Instead wear low heeled shoes which are not only comfortable for long periods, they also help in toning the calf muscles and improve blood circulation to your legs. Furthermore, it is easier to move around with low heeled shoes without putting too much pressure on your legs.
Consuming foods that contain spices such as cayenne pepper, turmeric, garlic, ginger and onions greatly improves blood circulation. Some of these spices also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease the swelling caused by spider veins. Additionally, you should consider going for low-salt diets as they also help alleviate any swellings caused by varicose veins or spider veins. Also consider eating foods rich in fiber such as fresh fruits, whole grains and vegetables as they reduce constipation which in some cases contributes to the development of spider or varicose veins.
Although not all spider veins can be prevented, following the above easy practices will greatly limit the likelihood of developing spider veins. These methods can also be helpful in alleviating any itches, swelling or pain that is associated with varicose veins or spider veins. However if your symptoms are persistent, you can always seek help at a professional vein treatment center like www.usaveinclinics.com.