Spider veins and varicose veins can range from unsightly to unbearable. Their treatment does not have to be. Wear and tear, family history, and several other factors can contribute to their development, which means there are different treatments to consider as well. Which treatment is right for you? While the majority of spider veins treatments are non-invasive, some are more non-invasive than others, and all depend on what your specific case entails.
Spider veins and varicose veins are twisted, dilated veins that are usually found throughout your legs. Risk factors include family history of venous disease, pregnancy, prolonged standing, sitting, or activity that causes strain to the vessels, and more. Some symptoms are mild enough to be a cosmetic nuisance, while other symptoms cause serious aches and pains through the skin. Since the symptoms vary, let us take a look at two common treatments.
The most non-invasive treatment you can get for your spider veins is conservative therapy. This is perfect for individuals with little to no pain due to their spider or varicose veins. Conservative therapy boils down to a self-care treatment you can do from the comfort of your home to help treat a variety of vein issues. The most common home treatment you may see involves compression stockings. They effectively compress the veins to keep them collapsed beneath the skin. This empties the blood and pushes more through the body’s venous system, reducing pressure and leg swelling. Doctors can prescribe various sizes, from knee to thigh-high, and various strengths, depending on the severity of the presenting spider veins.
Conservative therapy can also include: elevating affected legs, avoiding standing or straining legs for prolonged periods of time, daily walks and leg-related workouts, anti-inflammatory medications, unrestrictive clothing, and healthy changes in habits and diets. Each method can be highly effective, but depend on the severity of the affected area. If conservative therapy treatments do not work, it may be time to consider a different solution for relief and peace of mind.
Sclerotherapy is often a preferred treatment method for spider veins and smaller varicose veins. A solution, or foam, is injected into the affected area, making the vein scar. The blood naturally reroutes to healthier, neighboring veins, while the affected vein collapses and is absorbed into the body, fading away over time. This is an effective treatment for cosmetic purposes, but also improves symptoms of more severe vein cases, reducing aching, swelling, burning, and cramps. Injected sites will sometimes experience temporary bruising, small sores, redness and swelling, darkened skin, and small red blood vessels appearing around the area.
Doctors perform exams and examine medical history before proceeding with the treatment, as well as evaluate the affected veins for underlying disease. They will only perform the procedure if they are sure your health and family history suit the treatment. The whole process takes about an hour to complete. Walking is an essential part of recovering to keep the blood flowing, and your doctor will prescribe stockings or bandages for about two weeks to keep the treated veins compressed. While patients can return to daily activities, strenuous activity such as exercise or prolonged walking should be avoided.
Your spider or varicose vein case can be of a cosmetic or discomforting nature, but you are entitled to relief and treatment. If you are unsure if conservative therapy could be right for you, or if you are interested in learning more about sclerotherapy for spider veins, reach out to one of the many experts at BASS Vein Center for assistance with these decisions.
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