Spider Veins
Understanding Spider Veins and Treatments
Learn about spider veins and venous disease below; it can help you understand what you are experiencing, however, for an accurate diagnosis and consultation it is best to see a professional. We believe the more you know helps you understand the process and heal better.
Spider Veins May Be a Symptom of Venous Disease
Spider veins are small, thin blood blue vessels that almost look like a small spider’s web that has sprouted underneath the skin. These are usually harmless but are signs of poor circulation. They usually appear on the legs or thighs. But they also can appear on the face, forearms or hands. Women most often get these, especially women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills. Heredity also plays a big role in influencing if you get this. Please remember that having spider veins removed can have positive cosmetic benefits too.
Spider Vein Symptoms
Besides their appearance, spider veins usually don’t cause any physical symptoms. They can cause minor discomfort or burning sensation. Additionally, remember spider veins can be connected to the larger issue of venous disease.
Diagnosing Spider Veins
A doctor will perform a physical exam on you to determine if you have spider veins and venous disease. The physician also may order duplex ultrasonography. This test uses sound waves to determine how your blood moves through your veins. Read more below to see what the different treatments for spider veins and venous disease look like.
Cosmetic Benefits for Spider Vein Removal
Although spider veins can be a sign of a serious condition, they also can just be unsightly. If you’re embarrassed by your spider veins and find that you’re holding yourself back or don’t feel comfortable exposing your legs, you may benefit from having your spider veins removed. If you have spider veins on your face and find that you are constantly applying makeup to cover them up, treatment might also be right for you. If you’re healthy and spider veins are negatively affecting your life, you should consider removal with a simple procedure below so you can feel more comfortable in your own skin. Learn more about spider vein aesthetic procedures.
What Treatment for Spider Veins Is Best for Me?
Lifestyle Changes as a Treatment for Spider Veins
Exercises like running or walking can help aid in circulation.
Sclerotherapy as a Treatment for Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy is the most common way to treat spider veins. During this inpatient procedure, a doctor will inject you with a mixture of salt, fatty acids, and glycerin that will help collapse the vein. You may experience some bruising, however, there is no downtime at all. This does not require any kind of surgical procedure.
Foam Sclerotherapy as a Treatment for Spider Veins
During foam sclerotherapy, the foam is injected into the veins to help collapse them. This method can take longer to see results. It’s also typically used on larger veins.
Laser Therapy as a Treatment for Spider Veins
This method works by injecting light into the vein to make it fade and then disappear. The advantage here is that no needles or incisions are used. It can cause bruising, itching, swelling, and a change in skin tone. This also isn’t as effective as sclerotherapy.
Addressing Your Questions About Spider Veins
If you’ve never had a venous condition before, you likely have lots of questions about spider veins and their treatment. Fortunately, Arizona Vein & Laser Institute is here to give you the information you need. We can discuss what causes spider veins, how to minimize them, and which other side effects could indicate a deeper problem. Learn more about this condition via our FAQs:
Are Spider Veins Dangerous?
Spider veins are usually not a cause for concern and do not lead to complications or more serious health issues in most cases. They are generally considered harmless and do not require treatment. However, consulting a vein specialist is always a good idea, as this condition could be an early sign of chronic venous insufficiency.
It’s worth noting that although spider veins are not dangerous to your overall health, many people feel they are a cosmetic concern. If you are bothered by the appearance of spider veins, ask about minimally invasive procedures that can effectively remove them.
What Causes Spider Veins to Worsen and Spread?
While spider veins on the legs might begin in just one area, they can begin to spread to other areas. Although their spread is not usually cause for concern, understanding why they worsen can be helpful. Here are some possible reasons:
- Weakened Veins: As more veins weaken over time, additional spider veins can form. This is typically due to uncontrollable factors, such as aging, hormonal changes, and genetics.
- Blood Pressure Increase: Higher blood pressure in the veins can contribute to the worsening and spreading of spider veins. Conditions including obesity and pregnancy may contribute to high blood pressure and, thus, more spider veins.
- Injuries: Previous trauma or injury to the skin can lead to the development and progression of spider veins. This includes injuries such as cuts, bruises, or burns that affect the veins’ integrity.
- Sun Exposure: UV rays from the sun sometimes damage the skin and blood vessels, potentially leading to the formation and expansion of spider veins.
Are Spider Vein Treatments Painful?
Spider vein treatment is generally not considered to be painful. Most of our patients report minimal discomfort or no pain during procedures like endovenous laser treatment. Nevertheless, keep in mind that individual experiences may vary, and some people have different perceptions of pain. If you’re worried about discomfort during spider vein treatment, don’t hesitate to talk to our caring professionals.
Are Spider Vein Treatments Safe?
Spider vein removal strategies are considered safe. Most patients tolerate these medical procedures well and require little recovery time after the fact. But like any medical procedure, we encourage you to take some precautions to avoid infection and speed healing. We often recommend the following measures in the days after treatment:
- Staying active
- Keeping the affected area dry
- Wearing compression stockings as directed
- Making follow-up appointments with your provider
Can Spider Veins Return After Treatment?
After treating spider veins, the affected veins will not return. However, the body constantly forms new blood vessels, which means new spider veins can develop over time. When you consult with Arizona Vein & Laser Institute, we can discuss strategies for managing the recurrence of spider veins.
Customer Reviews
The staff is AWESOME.. They easy my worries and makes me feel at easy and comfortable every time. Dr. Sharma… takes the time with you.. he listens and understand.. most doctors try’s to hurry you up. But not him or his staff.
Excellent staff and service. Everyone is very friendly. I am very confident in Dr. Sharma's skills as a surgeon. I have been visiting them for over a year to remove varicose veins. I had many large protruding veins in both legs, now I have none and legs look good.
When I initially started my legs were constantly sore and heavy and I had a hard time standing long and walking was tiring. Now I can walk or stand with no issues. I definitely recommend them!