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Unsightly varicose and spider veins are generally thought of as a cosmetic concern. However, the condition can lead to serious health problems and, according to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, may require surgical intervention. Varicose and spider veins are much more prevalent in women than men, and can be caused by fluctuations in hormone levels, high-heeled shoes, age, heat, and obesity. Some people are more predisposed than others to develop the condition. Certain measures can be taken to help prevent the development of varicose and spider veins, such as: keeping active, which boosts blood circulation in the legs, maintaining a healthy body weight, changing positions every 30 minutes to promote blood flow, flexing the calf muscles when sitting for long stretches of time, avoiding clothing that restricts circulation in the waist, legs, and groin area, and refraining from subjecting legs to prolonged excessive heat. Varicose and spider veins can lead to fatigue, night cramps, leg swelling, and itching. If such veins do develop, a dermasurgeon (a surgeon specializing in skin conditions) can offer a number of treatment options. Almost 300,000 procedures were performed on varicose and spider veins in 2005 by dermasurgeons in the US.

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