Spider veins and varicose veins are essentially the same. The differing sizes are what separates the two.
Varicose veins are large, swollen red or purplish blood vessels that contour and twist with the movement of the individual. The veins are visible through the skin and typically occur in the legs but may also form in other parts of the body.
While similar in color to varicose veins, spider veins are smaller veins that are also visible through the skin. They are found on the surface of the legs, face, and/or chest.
Many factors may predispose an individual to varicose and spider veins. Some of these factors include heredity, obesity, hormonal replacement and birth control, standing for long durations, a history of blood clots, and conditions that may cause pressure on the abdomen.Varicose and spider veins occur most often in women and may increase in frequency with age. It is estimated that up to 60 percent of adults suffer from varicose and/or spider veins to some degree.
Improving Symptoms with Sclerotherapy and Other Varicose Veins Treatments
Patients who suffer from varicose veins usually complain of pain and discomfort, cramping, and aching in the legs. Other symptoms include throbbing, burning, restlessness, tingling, or a sense of heaviness. Some patients may also develop darkening of the skin, large sores or ulcers in the legs, and swelling. Occasionally, thrombophlebitis, a condition that leads to blood clots, forms blockages in the veins.
Many who suffer from these symptoms are most concerned with how to get rid of varicose veins and spider veins. Spider and varicose veins treatments include many options including:
- Wearing support hose: Wearing support stockings is considered one of the more conservative options. These products can be purchased at many pharmaceutical stores.
- Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy is an inexpensive outpatient procedure that involves a saline solution or highly concentrated salt detergent being injected directly into the varicose veins. The treatment causes the vein to gradually decrease in size over the duration of three to six weeks.
- Lifestyle changes: Because obesity may be a cause of varicose and spider veins, it is suggested that making certain lifestyle changes like eating well and exercising may help relieve discomfort associated with varicose veins.
- Endovenous laser treatment: With this treatment, a small fiber is inserted into the vein and releases small laser pulses directly inside the vein, causing it to collapse. This is usually performed as an outpatient procedure while the patient is under local anesthesia for comfort.
Where to Go for Varicose Veins Treatments
It is important to remember that not all patients with varicose veins need treatment. If you do need yours treated, however, you have plenty of options. At Divine Laser & Spa, we can help you get rid of that spider-web look with affordable laser vein removal. Contact us today for more information.
