Spider veins are thin red or blue lines on the surface of the skin that look like tree branches or spider webs.
Here’s what they mean and what you should do.
Also known as telangiectasias or angioectasias, they are small, dilated blood vessels that affect the legs, hands, and face (chin, cheeks, and nose).
Why do they appear?Spider veins signal weak or damaged valves in the veins.
These valves deteriorate due to poor blood circulation, heredity, age, history of blood clots, hormonal changes in the body, taking birth control pills, sitting or standing for extended periods, wearing tight-fitting clothes, constipation, and too much exposure to harmful UV sun rays.
Although they signal lacking health and lifestyle choices, they are usually harmless.
They can be accompanied by pain, throbbing, swelling, itching, rashes, and restless legs.
However, they are a cosmetic problem than a health concern.
How to get rid of them
They can be removed with surgical procedures. However, natural remedies, simple lifestyle changes, and time, can remove underlying causes and reduce their appearance, and prevent a recurrence.
Here are five things your body is telling you.
Drink ginger tea
Ginger breaks down the protein fibrin which builds up around injured veins. It also improves blood circulation helping repair valves.
To make ginger tea
Simmer fresh ginger root pieces in water for 10 minutes. Add honey and enjoy it two or three times daily.
Rub apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar reduces inflammation and improves blood circulation and flow.
Add raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar to a cloth until it is saturated. Place the cloth on the affected area for 20 minutes. Repeat the process at least twice a day for a couple of days.
Get a massage
Another easy way to improve circulation is routine massages. They can reduce pain and inflammation and reduce the appearance of spider veins.
For spider veins massages, use extra-virgin coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil because of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They are also fast penetrative oils that reach far deep into the skin.
Place the oil of your choice in a microwave to warm it slightly. Apply it to the affected area and gently massage the area for 10 minutes. Do this at least thrice daily.
Elevate the affected body part
Elevation is a good option for spider veins because it takes the pressure off the affected veins and boosts blood circulation.
If the spider veins are on your legs, place a pillow under them and lie on your back for 15 minutes throughout the day. You can also sleep like that.
For spider veins on your hands, elevate your hands by placing them on a stack of pillows for 15 minutes, several times a day.
For facial spider veins, sleep on your back and make sure your head is elevated a few inches higher than your body using a soft pillow.
Simple exercise
Get moderate exercise daily to help improve your blood circulation and boost your veins’ strength.
- A 30-minute walk at least five times a week.
- Walk around for 10 minutes after every two hours or three hours of sitting.
- Raise yourself on the balls of your feet and slowly lower yourself to strengthen your calf muscles. Do this for at least 15 minutes a few times daily.
Other exercises you can include in your daily routine include jogging, climbing stairs, and swimming.
Remember, if you’re taking medication for cardiovascular issues or any other condition, consult your doctor before using these remedies.
