Spider veins may be smaller than varicose veins, but they can be just as embarrassing and frustrating. Many people today — about half of all women and almost as many men — suffer from spider veins. To find the best solution for spider veins, you first need to know more about them. Here is the essential info on spider veins.
Why do Spider Veins Develop?
Spider veins develop if blood pools up in veins within a small area. If the vein valves are weak, the blood may start to flow down rather than up. When the blood backs up in the small superficial veins just beneath the skin, a pattern of spider veins may emerge. The reason for this blood back up may include:
- Prolonged periods of inactivity or standing for very long periods
- Genetics: If an immediate family member has spider veins, you’re more likely to have them too
- Extra weight: Extra weight puts pressure on the veins, which weakens them
- Hormonal changes: This can include hormone surges or drops, for example those that happen in pregnancy or menopause
- Sun exposure: Too much sun can worsen spider veins
What is the Treatment for Spider Veins?
Spider veins are treated in several different ways. At L.A. Vein Center, patients have enjoyed great success with minimally invasive treatments like sclerotherapy and laser therapy. In sclerotherapy, Dr. Lee uses a very fine needle is used to inject a sclerosing agent into the superficial blood vessels. This substance causes a controlled damage to the blood vessel walls, which will result in the gradual closure of the vein. Laser therapy may be combined with sclerotherapy. This type of therapy offers a more comfortable treatment and longer lasting results. Spider veins can be effectively treated in a series of out patient appointments at the L.A. Vein Center. Since the procedures are minimally invasive, there is little to no recovery time required.
