Varicose and spider veins not only cause discomfort, but they can cause complications like open sores or blood clots. On top of the complications, they affect your appearance. Minimally invasive treatments can remove or minimize leg veins. Symptoms are likely to diminish, like fatigue and pain.
What Causes Leg Veins
Varicose veins and spider veins are developed when small, one-way valves in the veins weaken. In healthy veins, the valves force blood in only one direction – back to your heart. As the valve weakens, some blood flows in the opposite direction and builds up in the vein. The blood puts extra pressure on the walls of the vein. As the pressure continues to build up, the walls weaken and bulge. Over time, varicose or spider veins become visible. Some people are at higher risk of developing these types of veins. It is known to be hereditary, so if you have blood relatives with them, you are at higher risk. If you sit or stand for long periods of time, you could be at higher risk level. Age and pregnancy can also cause the veins to weaken. Spider veins can be caused by hormonal changes, an injury, or even sunlight.
How are Veins Treated
There are many varied treatments for spider and varicose veins.
Self Care
- Elevate your legs
- Exercise
- Get up and walk every 30 minutes
- Take a break from standing every 30 minutes
- Avoid hot baths for long periods of time
These tips will not get rid of existing veins but can help prevent new ones.
Sclerotherapy
Dermatologists have made improvements to sclerotherapy, making it safer and achieving better results. It is the most common treatment for small varicose and spider veins.
What to expect during treatment:
- Injection of a chemical into veins
- After injections, your dermatologist may massage the area
- A compression sock is placed on the legs
- After observation, you will be released to go home
- You will be required to walk daily and wear the socks as directed. Most patients wear the stockings for 2-3 weeks.
- You can return to work and most activities the day after the procedure.
Spider veins disappear in 3-6 weeks most of the time and varicose veins 3-4 months. Two or three treatments may be needed to achieve the best results.
Compression Stockings
These stockings apply pressure to help the blood flow to the heart. The steady pressure lessens swelling in the legs and reduces the risk of blood clots. The veins will still be visible. A dermatologist can let you know the proper size of stockings and the right amount of pressure needed.
Laser Treatments
Spider veins and small varicose veins can be treated with lasers, where the dermatologist directs the laser light at the vein. Larger veins will darken and disappear after 1-3 months. Small spider veins may disappear immediately after the treatment. Three or more treatments may be required to clear the veins completely.
Compression stockings may be required for a short time. Most patients return to normal activities the day after the treatment but should avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours. It is crucial to protect the treated region from the sun for 3-4 weeks. This will help dark spots from appearing.
West Virginia Vein Removal
The results will depend largely on the person performing the leg vein treatment. Rejuvenation Laser & Skin Center has experienced technicians skilled in laser procedures. Contact Rejuv, where we bring the best in skin care treatments to our clients in West Virginia.