Varicose veins are larger blood vessels that have become swollen and twisted, and excel in the skin as conduits through which blood circulates. Although they can appear anywhere on the body, do it more often on the legs and ankles. They can cause pain and cramps, poor circulation and swelling in the affected area.

The spiders are small, twisted blood vessels that are visible through the skin. They have a reddish, purple or blue and appear more frequently in the legs. Its name derives precisely from the aspect that adopted in the form of spider web.

How and why are they made?

The leg veins are responsible for carrying blood from the legs to the heart and for that use a mix of road and pumps that push the blood flow.

There are two different venous systems in the legs, the superficial system, which has thinner walls and is surrounded by more compliant tissues, and deep, which houses 90% of the blood of the lower extremities and has thicker walls.

Chronic venous insufficiency is suffering from some people in a state of difficulty of the blood return causes increased pressure in the veins and helps blood circulation in the opposite direction than usual, ie the passage of blood from the system deep to the surface. As a result of varicose veins are formed, permanent and pathological expansions in the veins, and spider veins, which correspond to the dilation of small superficial vessels. This is the most common vascular disease, affects 25% of the adult population and 50% of those over 50 years. In women, are five times more common in men.

Risk Factors

Among the risk factors that favor its appearance are:

    * Overweight
    * Pregnancy
    * Sedentary lifestyle
    * Work long hours standing
    * Family history of varicose veins and spider veins.

Treatment and prevention

Spider veins and varicose veins are the manifestation of a chronic disease and its progression can hardly be avoided. Much of varicose veins and spider veins need not be treated unless complications lead to ulcers, bleeding, phlebitis, meaning inflammation of a vein that can be accompanied by thrombosis, atrophy or in the case erase desired for aesthetic reasons.

The stripping is one of the most successful methods, but also can be eliminated with intravenous injections, surgery or laser treatments.

It may be useful also to combat the inconvenience they cause varicose veins, take some preventive measures such as wearing compression stockings, which improve circulation and relieve pain and discomfort in the legs (can be found in pharmacies), losing weight and walk regularly.

If you notice some swelling, you can opt for a low-salt diet to reduce water retention. Keep your legs up on a pillow above heart level is another measure of relief, and avoid tight clothing or footwear with a heel than three centimeters.

How do I know if I have surgery varicose veins?

Much of varicose veins need not be treated unless complications lead to ulcers, bleeding, phlebitis, or because they wish to remove for aesthetic reasons. However, it is advisable to consult the specialist who will help you make a decision.