Spider veins occur when the blood vessels get twisted, causing the veins to appear through the skin. They are painless in most cases and do not pose a significant health threat. Your provider at Vascular Specialists can eliminate spider veins Evergreen Park by applying the latest tools and techniques. Below is what you need to know about spider veins.
Why do spider veins appear on the legs?
The principal cause of spider veins is damage to the blood vessels. The veins in your legs have valves that pump blood back to the heart. Since the legs carry most of the body’s weight, leg veins are the most affected.
If the stress on the valves is persistent, spider veins will appear eventually. You may be at risk of spider veins and varicose veins if you sit or stand for long periods without a break. The habit increases the pressure on the valves pumping blood from your legs.
Aging is also a factor that increases your risk of spider veins. The older you are the less supple the blood vessels. The blood vessel’s valves are more susceptible to damage at an advanced age.
The following factors could also raise your risk of varicose veins:
- Previous cases of vein damage
- Hormonal imbalances resulting from menopause treatment
- A family history of spider veins
- Pregnancy
Can you prevent varicose veins and spider veins?
You cannot completely prevent varicose or spider veins, especially if there is a family history of the condition. But you can take several steps to limit the risk of developing or worsening the symptoms.
Exercise strengthens the muscles and veins in your legs. It facilitates blood circulation, preventing blood from accumulating around the valves. Managing your weight reduces the strain that could damage blood vessels.
You can also reduce your risk by taking breaks after standing for long periods. Raise your legs when seated to allow blood vessels to pump blood to your heart.
How are spider veins diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will consider your family history during the diagnosis. Most cases can be diagnosed with a visual exam of the blood vessels in your legs. Questions about your symptoms can provide insights crucial during treatment.
Sometimes your doctor will request further tests for an accurate diagnosis. It may involve performing an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create an image of your veins.
Spider veins treatment options
Your spider veins are treated according to your symptoms and diagnostic results. Mild cases can be treated with compression stockings to support the blood vessels in your legs.
Sclerotherapy is the principal treatment method for moderate to severe symptoms of spider veins. It involves injecting the affected blood vessels with a chemical solution. The chemical solution is designed to seal the target veins and stop blood flow.
The solution seals the vein forcing the blood to find other pathways. The body absorbs the affected blood vessels. You can expect the vein to fade after a few weeks of sclerotherapy treatment.
To eliminate unsightly veins on your legs, call Vascular Specialists or schedule an appointment online.
