Spider veins are small blue or red veins appear very close to the surface of the skin and are frequently seen on the legs. Other places where spider veins may be seen include the face, chest and abdomen. While these veins may be solitary, they may appear as a network of tiny veins resembling a spider web, which is where this condition got its name.
Causes of Spider Veins
There are a number of possible causes of spider veins, including:
- Heredity – If one of your parents or siblings has spider veins, you have an increased chance of getting spider veins yourself.
- Backup of blood, similar to varicose veins, caused by faulty valves inside larger and deeper veins that are no longer able to move blood back to the heart as efficiently.
- Jobs that involve excessive amounts of standing, which places additional pressure on those lower leg veins.
- Hormonal changes common during puberty, pregnancy and menopause.
- Sun damage or other types of trauma or injury to the skin.
- Prior vein treatments.
Symptoms of Spider Veins
Spider veins are not usually accompanied by symptoms, making them more of a cosmetic concern. However, some patients report experiencing burning, itching or aching in the area where the veins appear. The symptoms typically worsen after the patient stands or sits for prolonged periods of time, and are sometimes increased just prior to menstruation.
Diagnosis of Spider Veins
While spider veins may appear to be an isolated problem, there could be an underlying issue with a deeper vein below the skin surface, which can only be detected by ultrasound. It is important to make this determination prior to initiating therapy, as impaired deeper veins need to be addressed prior to treating spider veins (or spider vein procedures could have suboptimal results). Thus a thorough evaluation of the veins should be made by a vein expert prior to considering treatment options.
Treatment of Spider Veins
Whether you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms with your spider veins, or simply want to be more confident putting on shorts or bathing suits, Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center can help. We offer a wide range of treatments for spider veins, including sclerotherapy, external laser, and VeinGogh, allowing us to customize treatment to your specific needs and concerns.
Contact Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center at (310) 986-6500 and make an appointment today to say goodbye to spider veins today!
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