Spider veins, also referred to as thread or broken veins, are small dilated or damaged blood vessels located in the outer layer of the skin (dermis), making them visible as thin, blue and purple lines. Anyone at any age can get spider veins, however, for the most part spider veins are hereditary, meaning that if a close blood relation has them, you might too. There are some conditions and lifestyle factors that increase your risk of developing spider veins; they include hormonal conditions, use of oral birth control, prolonged sun exposure and those who are required to stand for long periods, for example, hairdressers, cashiers, nurses and teachers.
With increasing research and technological advancements, there are a variety of vein treatments to choose, depending on the severity of your condition. If you have spider veins, here are some treatments to discuss with your vein care specialist.
Compression Stockings
Those living with the pain of spider veins may consider wearing compression stockings. And while these stockings don’t make the veins go away, they do offer relief by assisting the leg to pump blood back to the heart.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a quick, in-office procedure doctors use to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. This procedures, which has little discomfort and requires no anesthetic, involves injecting small volumes of sclerosing agent – a solution comprised of saline or saltwater solution – into the affected vein. This irritates the blood vessels and causes the lining of the vein to shrink and seal shut, eventually dissolving and then eliminating the vein completely. Blood then naturally reroutes to other healthier veins. Following the procedure, your doctor may recommend compression stockings to encourage blood flow in the area; in some instances treatment may require repeating for maximum results.
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
Endovenous Laser Therapy involves inserting a thin laser fiber into the damaged vein through a small puncture above the area where the symptoms are visible. Through this fiber, the doctor delivers laser energy, causing the vein to close as the laser gradually is removed. This in-office procedure is quick – it can be performed during a typical lunch hour. Plus there is no down or recovery time – and patients are encouraged to walk immediately after the procedure.
Harmony Laser Therapy
Harmony Laser Therapy is a safe and effective treatment used to eliminate superficial leg veins, including spider veins. Harmony Laser Therapy incorporates pulsed light energy to the targeted areas, where it is then absorbed. The hemoglobin in your blood then absorbs the pulsed energy from the laser, causing the damaged vein to collapse. As no injections or chemicals are used, this low-risk procedure offers little to no side effects and does not cause damage or injury to nearby healthy tissue and skin.
The Vein Institute & MediSpa in Kingwood, Texas
If you have spider veins that are making you self-conscious and you would like to know more about the treatments on offer, call The Vein Institute & MediSpa in Kingwood, Texas, today. Our board-certified physician Raymond Little specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vein disorders.
Here, at The Vein Institute & MediSpa, we use advanced, minimally invasive methods whenever possible to treat and improve the appearance of veins. Call us at (281) 312-0208 to request an appointment, or use our online form to request an appointment.
