Varicose and Spider Veins

Varicose and spider veins are common in both men and women and are considered a general sign of aging. They are a sign that your veins are not functioning properly and it is generally advisable to treat them in order to prevent them from getting worse.

Varicose veins are very swollen and raised above the surface of the skin. They are sometimes dark green, purple or blue in color, and can look like twisted or bulging rope. They are often found on the backs of the calves or on the inside of the leg, anywhere from the groin to the ankle.

Spider veins are similar to varicose veins, but they are smaller, are often red or blue in color, and are closer to the surface of the skin than varicose veins. Spider veins can be found on both the legs and the face and can be found in clusters or spread out over larger areas.  

The cause of varicose and spider veins is not clearly understood but may be related to

• family history of varicose and spider veins or blood clots
• hormonal changes during pregnancy
• The use of birth control pills or hormonal replacement therapy
• Being overweight
• Prolonged standing or sitting
• Tight clothing

In addition to being unattractive, varicose and spider veins can be a source of discomfort for many patients. They can cause swelling of ankles and feet and legs may ache or feel tired and heavy and leg muscles may throb or cramp. Varicose and spider veins do not generally improve without treatment, and usually increase and become larger over time.

Sclerotherapy

One of the most common procedures for removing unwanted varicose and spider veins is sclerotherapy, a process in which a solution known as a sclerosing agent is injected into the vein using a very fine needle. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to stick together and collapse, eventually turning into scar tissue and disappearing. This process causes a gradual fading of the treated vessels over a period of several weeks to several months. For best results patients are required to wear compression stockings for several weeks after their treatment. Compression stockings are specialized hosiery designed to increase blood circulation and improve circulatory problems in the legs. Compression stockings are available by a prescription provided at your first appointment and Dermetics offers convenient measurement and delivery of compression stockings at the beginning of your treatment.

The majority of patients who are treated with sclerotherapy will see significant improvement and many will be cleared of their spider or varicose veins. The number of treatments required will vary from patient to patient depending on the extent of the varicose and spider veins. Most patients require an average of 3 – 4 treatments. Common side effects are bruising, tenderness or firmness of treated veins and skin pigment changes. These side effects are generally temporary and can usually be minimized with proper use of compression stockings.

If you are bothered by varicose or spider veins we can help. Contact us to schedule a consultation!