Spider veins are discolored clusters that are just beneath the surface of the skin. For many people they are the cause of much concern because of their unsightly appearance. Depending on the type, it is possible to remove spider veins and rid yourself of those ugly clusters of dark blue veins that appear on your legs and face.
Because spider veins are located near the surface of the skin spider vein removal is not as involved as varicose veins that can run much deeper under the skin. Often laser removal is recommended because it is non-invasive and there is very little pain during the procedure.
If laser is your choice for removal of spider veins you may need several treatments to fully clear the area. If you have medical insurance you should first check with them to see if this procedure is covered and how many treatments you are allowed. Laser treatment for the removal of spider veins can often replace the surgical techniques that are also available.
Laser therapy can be used in the treatment of varicose veins as well as spider veins. Many doctors prefer this method to remove spider veins because there are no chemicals or medications involved.
Another popular procedure to remove spider veins is called sclerotherapy. This is a procedure where the doctor injects a sclerosing agent into the vein. The sclerosing agent irritates the inside of the vein and the vein will swell together. Once this happens there is not more blood supply to the vein and it will gradually dissolve into the body.
Sclerotherapy can be performed in the doctor’s office and you can go home after the procedure. A fine needle is used to inject the substance directly into the vein and very little pain, if any, is felt. Your doctor can inject several veins with just one office visit and you will be able to return to normal life within a few days.
After sclerotherapy treatment for spider vein removal you may experience some soreness at the injection site. This is usually not severe and does not require any type of narcotic pain killer. You doctor may recommend that you keep your feet elevated for a few hours and he may also recommend support hose to help keep the area from swelling. Support hose will also help spider veins from recurring.
After sclerotherapy there may be some side effects such as inflammation to the area or an adverse reaction to the chemical that is injected into the vein. This is rare and should not prevent you from seeking treatment. Discuss these concerns with your doctor and he should be able to put your mind to rest. If an allergic reaction occurs it usually happens rather quickly and your doctor will be there to treat the reaction effectively.
Other side effects may include an irregularity in pigmentation at the area where the veins are located. In many cases this is only a temporary situation and will disappear in a couple of weeks. In other cases this discoloration may be permanent.
There are plenty of doctors who are able to help you deal with those unsightly spider veins and their removal. If you are experiencing spider veins and you are concerned with their appearance you should discuss those concerns with your health care professional.
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