Spider veins are small, dilated veins close to the skin’s surface, measuring about 0.3 to 1.0 millimeters. They can appear red, blue, purple, or green and are medically known as telangiectasia.
These veins can form anywhere on the body, though they are most commonly seen on the face and legs. Larger superficial veins, known as reticular veins, may contribute to the development of spider veins.
Request an AppointmentReticular Veins
Reticular veins measure 1 to 2 millimeters in size and are often visible on the skin’s surface, appearing greenish. While they seem superficial, these veins are actually located in the subdermal area and are often associated with spider veins. Reticular veins transmit high pressure from deeper sources to the visible spider vein complex.
The most common pattern of spider veins is found on the lateral aspect of the thigh, linked to high pressure in the lateral reticular vein. Effective treatment should target not only the spider veins but also the underlying reticular veins.
FAQ’s About Spider Veins
Why do I have spider veins?
Spider veins affect up to 80% of the population and result from increased venous pressure in the skin circulation. This isn’t the same as high blood pressure; rather, it’s elevated pressure in the veins due to malfunctioning valves at certain points. Contributing factors can include genetics, pregnancy, deeper venous reflux, or trauma.
Why do spider veins keep coming back?
Spider veins can reoccur for various reasons, often linked to an underlying cause. They result from the dilation of cutaneous veins, which may happen due to hormonal changes or increased pressure from venous circulation.
If the root cause of spider veins isn’t adequately addressed, they can easily return. Perforating veins may also contribute to their formation. Even with proper treatment, recurrence is always a possibility, as the body tends to reform spider veins after they’ve appeared. Factors like pregnancy, which increases venous pressure, and genetic susceptibility are significant contributors to the development of spider veins.
What is the best treatment for spider veins?
Treatment for spider veins varies based on their size and underlying cause. In most cases, sclerotherapy is the preferred method. For very small spider veins, laser treatment is typically used. Reticular veins and “feeder veins” that supply spider veins generally require sclerotherapy as well. Additional therapies may be incorporated to enhance treatment outcomes, including ohmic thermolysis, laser therapy, and micro-surgical techniques.
Can I exercise after treatment?
If you exercise, you should not wear tight shorts or do exercise that increases venous pressure such as leg presses, etc. Mild exercise can be started within a few days of treatment.
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy refers to the injection of a solution into the vein to cause eventual internal scarring of the vein. Sclerotherapy has been used for years and both large and small veins can be treated. After injection, it may take a few weeks to a few months for the vein to go away. Repeated injections may be necessary to treat all of the diseased veins.
Will my spider veins that are treated come back?
If the source of the spider veins is identified and treated, then there is a good chance that the veins will not come back. However, you can always form new veins in a different location.
Do I have to wear compression stockings after my treatment?
Some studies have shown that wearing stockings provides comfort and may speed the resolution of the treated veins. However, all doctors do not agree with this.
Is spider vein treatment painful?
There is minor discomfort with all forms of treatment. Sometimes doctors cool the skin with ice, cooling air or a cooling spray to minimize discomfort. Most patients tolerate the procedure very well without skin cooling.
Can I go back to work after treatment?
Yes.
What can I use after treatment to help with healing?
Look for an all-natural product that can help soothe the skin and promote healing. Dermaka is an all-natural plant-based product that decreases bruising and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Sclerotherapy is a procedure in which your provider injects a solution directly into spider veins or small varicose veins, causing the vein walls to collapse and be reabsorbed by the surrounding tissue.
Smaller veins typically dissolve within 3 to 4 weeks, while larger veins may take 3 to 4 months. Patients report an 87% satisfaction rate with the results, although some may require multiple treatments depending on the size and complexity of their veins.
Patients often seek sclerotherapy for cosmetic enhancement of the affected area, but many also experience relief from symptoms such as pain, swelling, cramping, and burning in the region of the veins.
The treatment typically lasts between 45 to 90 minutes. During the procedure, the provider uses vision, touch, and often a vein light to identify treatable veins and ensure accurate injections. Afterward, the site will be bandaged, and compression garments will be applied to keep the medication localized, reduce complications, and help compress the treated veins for better outcomes.
Compression garments should be worn for 3 to 7 days, depending on the size and number of veins treated, and may then be used periodically to prevent the development of new spider or varicose veins.
Patients are encouraged to walk immediately after the procedure and can engage in light exercise within 24 hours. However, it’s advisable to avoid heavy exercise, sunbathing, hot tubs, saunas, pools, baths, and lakes for 3 days post-treatment.
While rare, potential side effects may include anaphylaxis or allergic reactions to the medication, “burns” or ulcers at injection sites, localized pain, and bleeding or bruising. Localized clotting is expected, but very rarely, clots may enter the deep vein system. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, or cough up blood.
Sclerotherapy is contraindicated during pregnancy, in individuals with known allergies to the medication, those with acute blood clots, or those with known bleeding disorders.