Eliminate Spider Veins with Sclerotherapy

Published on: February 13, 2014

Spider veins can be unsightly, as well as being uncomfortable or even painful. There are a vast array of factors which can contribute to the appearance of spider veins, often making it difficult to determine a particular cause for each individual. Fortunately, there is a reliable, safe and effective method of treatment available to those who are suffering from the appearance of spider veins.

What Are Spider Veins?

Unlike bulging and swollen varicose veins, spider veins are close to the surface and tend to be much smaller. They’re typically blue or red in color, and cause short, jagged lines to appear on the skin. Spider veins commonly affect the legs and the face, and are more commonly experienced by women than by men. Pregnancy, sun exposure, hormonal changes and increasing age can all play a role in the formation and appearance of spider veins, and people who have family members with vein problems are at a higher risk for developing spider veins.

Are Spider Veins Dangerous?

Spider veins can be uncomfortable or even slightly painful, and can cause emotional distress if they’re very noticeable. Most of the time, they’re not dangerous to your physical health. In some cases, however, spider veins may be an indicator of circulatory issues deep within the vein, quite far beneath the surface of the skin. In these cases, they may lead to blood clots, pain, swelling and skin ulcers.

How are Spider Veins Treated?

Sclerotherapy is a tried and true method of eliminating both varicose veins and spider veins. In fact, it’s been in wide use in North America since the 1930s. During a sclerotherapy procedure, the affected veins will be injected directly with a solution which irritates the lining of the vessel. Sessions usually last for fifteen to thirty minutes, and may need to be repeated several times in order to be fully effective.

If you’re suffering from spider veins and varicose veins, contact a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in your area to decide whether or not you’re a good candidate for sclerotherapy.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Jodi E. Ganz, Olansky Dermatology Associates

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