Spider Veins Treatment

Spider veins are formed by the dilatation of a small group of blood vessels close to the skin surface. Commonly found on the face and legs they are not a health hazard but may cause dull aching in the legs after prolonged standing or towards the end of the day. If such symptoms occur it may be an indicator of more severe underlying venous disease

CAUSE

Slightly more common in women. May be associated with coexisting varicose veins. May cause fatigue, night cramps, leg swelling or itching

Exact cause is unknown. Contributing factors may be

• Heredity
• Pregnancy
• Ageing
• Trauma
• Hormonal influence
• Sun damage

POINTS TO BEAR IN MIND

• Keep active: this will help in blood circulation and prevent pooling of blood
• Maintain a healthy weight: this will help reduce excess pressure on legs
• Wear compression stockings: properly fitted ones to ensure the proper distribution of pressure on the legs so as to direct blood to the heart
• Avoid standing/sitting for long periods of time: change of position is advised every 30 mins or so. Toes should be raised while sitting or standing to exercise the calf muscles. In case of long journeys or plane trips it is advisable to walk for a few minutes and exercise the calf muscles
• Avoid hot tubs: will caused dilatation of the veins and make it worse
• Avoid restrictive clothing: around the waist and lower extremities

TREATMENT

• Sclerotherapy
• Laser

FAQS

1. Who can be treated?

Veins which look thin and thread like are more likely to respond to laser treatment. In case of a doubt whether spider or varicose a venous Doppler study will confirm the varicose nature. Varicose veins can be treated by laser too but the procedure is different.

2. Is it painful?

Application of numbing cream 1-2 hours before the procedure makes it very comfortable

3. How much time for the veins to disappear?

Small veins will disappear in a week. A little larger ones will take approximately 2-3 weeks