How Can Spider Veins In The Legs Be Treated?

Posted on Fri, 24 Nov 2023

Question: I developed spider veins in my ankles when I was pregnant with my first child 40 years ago. I am 61. After my second child, I also noticed that when I would stand or sit with my feet hanging free, my feet would turn purple. They have progressively gotten much worse over the years and now the spider veins completely cover my ankles and are showing in the tops and bottoms of my feet. For the past few years, I have had spells when my feet and especially my toes get really cold and turn almost black. I can prop my feet and legs up and the purple/black goes away. Most nights I have to sleep in thermal socks to keep my feet warm. Sometimes I have to use a heating pad on them. Also, several years ago I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I won't wear sandels in warm weather because I am so embarrassed about my ankles and feet. What can I do

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

Seems to be vascular insufficiency

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

I have gone through your complaints and according to me you seem to be having some vascular insufficiency either in the arteries or veins.

You should go for arterial and venous colour doppler test to find out the exact cause of your complaints.

Meanwhile, avoid hanging of legs for long, wear compression stockings, keep your legs elevated while lying down by keeping a pillow underneath, keep your feet warm and avoid smoking.

Besides, there are certain medicines like calcium dobesilate and pentoxyphylline that work well in such cases but these are prescription drugs and you need to see the doctor in person to get them.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Asmeet Kaur Sawhney, Dermatologist

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad