In recent years, a plethora of creams and lotions have come into the marketplace claiming to "cure" or "eliminate" veins without surgical procedures, targeting those afraid of surgery in general and stating they are safe for mothers-to-be.
Pregnancy, obesity, hormonal changes, and prolonged standing are just a few of the common causes of varicose and spider veins. They can also be brought about by age, or by heredity. Even skin injuries and sun exposure can put you at risk. All these vulnerabilities make it hard to avoid developing varicose and spider veins. In fact, almost 40 million Americans suffer from vein disorders each year.
More common in women than in men, varicoseveins occur in the weaker, more superficial veins in the leg, and develop when the veins fail to function properly. The blood traveling through the veins then begins to pool, causing the veins to become enlarged and twisted. Varicose veins are not only a cosmetic problem; they can be a symptom of a more serious ailment, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other circulatory disorders.
Spider veins are a milder form of varicose veins, whereby bluish, reddish veins that look like spider webs are visible just under the surface of the skin. They are caused by the slowing down of blood circulation, and are usually found on the face, legs, and thighs. Improving blood flow to the area and strengthening the veins can help to prevent spider veins.
"First of all, there isn't a true cure for varicose or spider veins," said Michael Orcutt, MD, FACS, RPVI, Centers for Advanced Vein Care of Montana.
"In today's world, surgical treatment ofvaricose and spider veins is minimally invasive and practically pain free with little recovery time," Dr. Orcutt explained. "Surgical treatment and/or treatments with lasers are really the only way of ridding yourself of unsightly veins."
Lotions and creams often have natural ingredients like Vitamin K, Vitamin P, flavonoids, and bioflavonoids. Applying the lotions in a massaging fashion could also stimulate blood flow and circulation. The vitamins found in the lotions and creams can help to rehabilitate the skin, aid the healing of bruises and scarring, and could potentially even fade stretch marks.
“Moisturizing the skin along with massaging can increase circulation, and that is not a bad thing, however there isn’t a magic potion to cure vascular defects,” said Dr. Orcutt.
It’s Not Your Grandma’s Support Hose Anymore : Compression Stocking Therapy
Venous disease is one of the most common health problems effecting more than 40 million Americans each year. The condition includes varicose veins, spider veins, and/or deep vein thrombosis.
Today, there are numerous outpatient and minimally invasive, virtually pain-free surgical treatment options available using lasers and radio frequencies to eradicate swollen and twisted veins. Compression therapy is often used before or after surgery for patient comfort and treatment.
Compression stockings can prevent vein problems from occurring, relieve venous symptoms such as leg swelling, fatigue or achiness and decrease the likelihood of a blood clot.
Gradient compression stockings provide a range of pressure against the leg. The pressure is highest at the foot and ankle, and gradually decreases as the garment rises up the leg. This makes it easier for the body to pump blood up towards the heart and more difficult for gravity to pull blood downward.
Patients wearing compression stockings frequently report that their symptoms are significantly improved. Recent studies also indicate that compression can help to prevent the recurrence of varicose veins.
Compression stockings require a prescription and can be purchased at many pharmacies, medical supply, and specialty stores. Your doctor will recommend the best style for your needs. Compression stockings are now made as knee-highs, thigh-highs, or in a “pantyhose” style. These days, compression stockings are fashionable, comfortable, and come in a wide variety of styles and colors.
Though modern compression stockings usually look like socks or tights, putting them on can be a challenge. Here are some tips:
• A good fit is absolutely essential and can be obtained through a professional fitter whom will help measure your leg, including circumference.
• Different brands vary in size and length, so try them on if you can.
• Never roll the stockings like a sock, which can create a tourniquet-like effect.
• Do not wear compression garments to bed, unless instructed to by a medical provider.
There are many benefits to graduated compression therapy, including reduced risk factors for deep vein thrombosis, but be sure to consult your physician. Compression is not appropriate for all patients and may adversely affect some patients with peripheral arterial disease.
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