Varicose and spider veins are more than just a cosmetic issue. These veins can lead to serious health problems, and it’s best to have them treated. Sclerotherapy is an effective treatment that can eliminate these unsightly veins. Below, you can read more about the cause and symptoms of varicose and spider veins as well as how sclerotherapy works.
What Causes Varicose and Spider Veins?
Varicose and spider veins, while different in name, have the same cause. Basically, your veins have one job: to carry blood back to the heart. As such, veins contains little one-way valves that allow blood to travel in only one direction. However, this valve can become damaged, allowing blood to move in the wrong direction where it will sometimes begin to pool in the vein. This build-up of pressure damages the vein wall, causing it to bulge. As more blood pools, the bulge becomes larger until it can be seen just under the skin.
What Is the Difference Between Varicose and Spider Veins?
Although they are very similar in cause, there are some subtle differences between varicose and spider veins. First, varicose veins can be several different colors, including appearing red, blue, or skin-colored. Spider veins, on the other hand, usually only appear to be red. Spider veins also will not bulge out of the skin like varicose veins do.
Who Is At Risk for Varicose and Spider Veins?
Women generally are more prone to developing both varicose and spider veins; although, men can also develop them too. There are several factors that increase your risk for developing varicose and spider veins, including a family history, age, and if you stand for long periods of time. Being overweight, pregnant, or taking hormonal birth control can also increase your chances of having varicose and spider veins.
What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?
Normally, spider veins don’t cause any symptoms; however, varicose veins can cause discomfort and can lead to serious medical conditions. Varicose veins can cause swelling in the legs as well as throbbing pain and even itchiness. If you’re symptoms get better when you sit and elevate your legs, then it’s definitely time to have your varicose veins treated.
Sclerotherapy Effectively Treats Varicose and Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy is the most effective treatment for getting rid of varicose and spider veins. This treatment is non-invasive and non-surgical with little downtime. For the procedure, our practitioner will inject a chemical in the affected vein. This chemical will cause the vein wall to swell and seal shut. From there, your body will naturally get rid of that dead vein. After your treatment, you may need to wear compression socks, and you should see your spider and varicose veins disappear within a couple weeks.
Most people make excellent candidates for sclerotherapy at O’Donnell Vein & Laser. To learn more about this effective treatment, visit one of our locations in Annapolis or Easton. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
