Varicose Veins and Spider Veins - What You Need to Know About Vein Care

Varicose veins are swollen and twisted blood vessels near the surface of the skin. They may not cause serious medical problems, but they can be uncomfortable and some people seek treatment to reduce discomfort or for cosmetic reasons for more details contact Center for Advanced Vein Care.

A number of factors can lead to varicose and spider veins. These include: Gender: Women are more likely to have this condition because of changes in hormones during pregnancy, while taking the birth control pill and as they age (menopause). Lifestyle: Long periods of standing or sitting decrease circulation. Wearing tight clothing around the waist and legs can restrict blood flow. Other health conditions such as severe constipation and certain tumors can increase pressure on the blood vessels.

The goal of varicose and spider vein treatments is to close diseased veins so that blood is naturally rerouted through healthy veins. This helps relieve symptoms and improves appearance, but it also prevents the problems from recurring.

Several approaches are available for treating varicose and spider veins, depending on the size and location of the affected veins. Most of these procedures are done as outpatient surgeries and patients generally go home the same day.

Before the procedure, doctors numb the area with local anesthetic. They can also use ultrasound imaging of the veins to determine if there is a blood clot.

For small varicose veins or spider veins, a doctor injects a chemical into the vein to scar and close it. This is called sclerotherapy. In this procedure, the damaged vein gradually fades and eventually disappears. This treatment is often performed by dermatologists.

Another type of therapy for varicose veins is radiofrequency ablation. In this procedure, a doctor makes a small incision near the target vein, usually above or below the knee. They then insert a thin tube, called a catheter, into the vein. The catheter is positioned at the top of the targeted vein and is connected to a device that emits short bursts of energy. The heat causes the walls of the vein to collapse and seal shut. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and does not require a hospital stay.

Surgical removal of varicose veins is rarely necessary, but it can be recommended to help with severe pain or if complications develop such as ulcers or skin discoloration. This is done through a series of incisions in the leg, and usually requires general anesthesia. It can lead to bruising, bleeding and swelling. It is possible to develop a blood clot after this surgery, which can be dangerous. A few weeks after the operation, you may need to wear compression stockings.