Every more or less educated person knows that spider veins may be indicative of more serious underlying problems prevalent in the human body (such as increased venous pressure). That's why before starting the spider veins treatment doctors prefer to make an overall check-up. It's necessary to mention that spider veins are known as tiny blood vessels of a diameter of less than 2 mm. It's a common knowledge that spider veins can appear in various human body parts - particularly on the human face, ankles and legs. As a rule, spider veins form web-like netting on the skin surface. It goes without saying that spider veins are a quite unattractive nuisance; and when they become larger in size they bring discomfort to the person: he or she usually feels heaviness in legs, itching and night cramps. Varicose veins have a close nature. These are filled with blood and permanently distended veins, which are located on the skin surface of legs. They are also known to cause such discomfort as swelling, heaviness, throbbing, night cramps and various long-term complications including bleeding and ulcerations. For both mentioned types of veins heredity is considered to be the main cause. However, the risk of having spider veins can also be increased for pregnant women or women taking birth control pills. So, another cause of spider veins is hormonal changes; when the woman takes birth control pills the hormone called estrogen is likely to weaken her vein walls. Speaking about the spider veins description, it's relevant to note that lack of exercise and obesity weaken the leg veins system as well and therefore cause spider veins occurrence. Be aware that the risk of spider veins development increases for both men and women as they become older. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent spider veins development and alleviate their symptoms. It is known as a conservative approach. The most common conservative treatment type is simple wearing certain stockings with compression. The development of both varicose and spider veins can be slowed down by regular exercises which are likely to promote healthy circulation within the so-called "second heart". As a matter of fact, "the second heart" is known as a system of muscles, valves and veins in foot and calf, which work together as a pump and move towards the human heart against gravity. Diet and lifestyle changes, various dietary supplements (for example, vitamins E and C) and other alternatives can compliment and augment the effect of the above-mentioned conservative approach. Thus, following the above measures can be the best protection from spider veins development and spread (especially for people, who are at great risk because of heredity). On the other hand, if the person already suffers from varicose or spider veins there several possible treatments options used in modern medical practice (including surgical and non-surgical options such as sclerotherapy and laser therapy).