- SUNDAY, July 20 (HealthDay News) — Spider and varicose veins in
women can be caused by a number of factors, including hormone
fluctuations, wearing high-heeled shoes, age, heat, obesity and type of
occupation, says the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS).

In 2005, U.S. dermasurgeons (doctors who specialize in skin and
vein-related conditions) performed almost 300,000 vein-related procedures,
of which 86 percent involved female patients, according to the ASDS.

“Due to some predisposed conditions, varicose and spider veins may be
inevitable for some people. However, there are many preventative measures
and medical techniques available to diminish the appearance and pain
associated with these vein conditions,” Dr. Robert Weiss, president-elect
of the ASDS, said in a news release from the society.

He offered the following advice:

• Listen to your body. Varicose and spider veins tend to be a cosmetic
  concern, but they can lead to problems such as fatigue, night cramps, leg
  swelling and itching around certain veins. If you experience any of these
  symptoms, consult a dermasurgeon.
• Keep active. Moving your legs boosts blood circulation, which reduces
  pressure and blood pooling.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce/prevent excess pressure on your
  legs that can cause veins to surface.
• Wear compression stockings to elevate pressure to the veins. Avoid
  restrictive clothing that can restrict circulation in the waist, legs and
  groin area and lead to spider and varicose veins.
• Don't stand or sit for long periods of time. This can place pressure
  on veins. Changing position every 30 minutes will help blood flow and keep
  veins healthy. Flex your calf muscles frequently while sitting at your
  desk or on long car trips. This will help promote blood circulation in
  your legs.
• Don't subject your legs to excessive heat. Soaking in a hot bath or
  hot tub increases vein swelling and leads to blood pooling.
• If you do develop spider or varicose veins, speak to a dermasurgeon
  about which treatment option is the best for you.

More information

The U.S. National Women's Health Information Center has more about spider and
varicose veins.