Spider veins appear as tiny, red, purple, or blue veins that can be visible on your skin surface. They are referred to as spider veins because they form clusters that look like a spider web. Spider veins Warner Robins can develop in any body part but primarily affect the legs. If your spider veins are not causing any discomfort, you do not need treatment.
However, you can seek medical care for aesthetic goals. In some cases, your spider veins can cause pain, itching, burning, and tenderness, so you need medical attention. Spider veins can also develop extensive areas or more prominent varicose veins, which can signify a vascular condition.
Risk factors
Obesity: Excess weight puts extra pressure on your leg veins leading to spider veins.
Age: Spider veins can affect anyone at any age, but they progress with time. They are more prone in older age because there are high chances of wear and tear on your vein valves.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, your blood volume nearly doubles, leading to enlarged veins, which can cause spider veins.
Genetics: You have a high chance of developing spider veins if your family has the condition history.
Lifestyle factors: Sitting or standing for long periods restricts blood flow in your veins and can lead to blood pooling, causing spider veins.
Gender: Women experience hormone changes during pregnancy and menopause, increasing the chances of developing spider veins.
Treatment
Compression stockings or socks
Compression stockings or socks are fitting support hoses that help when your spider veins cause pain or discomfort. They reduce swelling and keep blood from pooling in your veins. The stockings create gentle pressure on your leg, improving blood flow in your spider veins. You can purchase these socks in surgical stores and some pharmacies.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy helps improve the appearance of your spider veins. The procedure involves your doctor injecting a special detergent into the affected vein. The chemical irritates your vein, making it collapse. The vein will disappear within three to six weeks. Sclerotherapy eliminates pain and discomfort in spider veins.
Endovenous laser ablation
The endovenous laser ablation procedure involves your doctor inserting a small laser fiber into the affected vein. The doctor makes a tiny cut near the vein and puts the small catheter. A device in the catheter heats up inside your vessel, and laser pulses cause the vein to collapse. Endovenous laser ablation is a safe procedure with no complications.
Radiofrequency occlusion
Radiofrequency occlusion is an outpatient procedure and sometimes under local anesthesia. Your doctor inserts a small catheter into your affected vein. The catheter will deliver radiofrequency energy to the wall of your vein, making it heat up, collapse, and seal shut.
Lifestyle changes
Reducing excess weight, good skin hygiene, and taking walks can help treat spider veins. You can also avoid standing or sitting for extended periods, crossing your legs at your knees or ankles, and wearing heels for long periods. Physical activities that move your legs can help improve blood flow and muscle tone.
Whether your spider veins are causing discomfort or not, your doctor will use the treatment procedure that best suits you. Schedule your appointment at Middle Georgia Vascular Surgery Center & Vein Solutions for spider veins treatment to fulfill your aesthetic goal.