Spider veins and varicose veins are common conditions that affect many adults. These abnormally enlarged vessels, which affect women more often than men, appear most often on the legs and become more prevalent with age. These unsightly veins can be easily treated and eliminated. There are a variety of different risk factors that increase the chances of a person getting spider veins and varicose veins.
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes (as during pregnancy or menopause—or if you’re taking birth control pills or other hormones)
- Excess weight
- Pressure and repetition associated with crossing legs when sitting
- Aging
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Sclerotherapy: Is a liquid solution that is injected directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the veins, causing them to seal shut. This stops the flow of blood, forcing blood to be rerouted to healthier veins. The vein is reabsorbed into the body and fades within several weeks. Typically 10 to 30 veins can be treated in one session and sometimes the same vein needs to be treated more than once to get long-term results. Follow-up sessions are required to treat additional veins.
Laser treatment: A laser beam is targeted at the blood vessel and the heat from the laser coagulates the blood inside, causing it to collapse and seal up—without damaging nearby skin, vessels, or tissue. Over several weeks, the vein will shrink and disappear. One to five sessions, spaced four weeks apart, is typically required. For those individuals who do not like needles, this provides an alternative option.
