Spider Veins | Varicose Veins MD Care

Spider Veins

Spider Veins

Millions of men and women can be bothered by spider veins, also known as telangiectasias- small yet unsightly clusters of red, blue or purple veins that most commonly appear on the face, thighs, calves and ankles. In fact, it's estimated that at least half of the adult female population is affected with this common cosmetic problem.

Spider Veins Vs. Varicose Veins

Spider veins are similar to varicose veins, but are generally smaller than their larger and bulging counterparts. Spider veins are closer to the surface of the skin than varicose veins and occur around the legs and also on the face. Spider veins can cause leg discomfort, but they do not lead to complications. However, spider veins treatment must not be postponed to avoid more veins from appearing, which will require more treatment in the long run.

Causes of Spider Veins

A number of factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including heredity factors, pregnancy and other events that cause hormonal shifts, weight gain. Occupations or activities that require prolonged exposure to environmental elements or prolonged sitting and standing can also exacerbate the problem. There are several factors that make people susceptible to spider veins, such as:

Hereditary
Occupations that involve a lot standing
Blood clot history
Hormonal influences (puberty, pregnancy and menopause)
Use of birth control pills
Trauma or injury to the skin
Conditions that cause increased pressure in the abdomen such as constipation and tight garments like girdles
Extreme UV exposure

Symptoms of Spider Veins

Red or bluish-purple blood vessels appear around the legs or thighs, sometimes on the face, forearms or hands. Spider veins usually do not cause any symptoms, but rarely may cause a mild dull discomfort or tingling/burning sensation.

Spider Veins Treatment

The number of treatments required to achieve a successful result will depend on the severity and long standing nature of the problem area. If more than one treatment is required (which is typical), treated spider veins will appear lighter after each treatment. Patients should be aware that the procedure treats only those veins that are currently visible; it does nothing to permanently alter the venous system or prevent new veins from surfacing in the future.

Today, many plastic surgeons and specialist practitioners are treating spider veins with minimally invasive treatments such as:

Our Huntington Beach Vein Surgeon, Dr. Yasser Salem, received specialty training that keeps him on the leading edge of diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for the treatment of vein disease. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.

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