Spider veins also referred to as thread veins, are the tiny, damaged veins that appear in the form of thin lines, branches, or webs on the surface of the face or legs. They can be red, purple, or blue in color and are normally not harmful or painful but, some people prefer to eliminate them for cosmetic reasons. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments that can help treat spider veins and minimize their appearance. Read on to learn more about the effective spider vein treatment options offered by Dr. Atur Kasha in El Paso.
Causes of Spider Veins
Veins naturally function by carrying blood back to the heart. They also contain a one-way valve that prevents the backflow of blood by immediately closing once blood flows through it. If this valve becomes damaged or weakens, blood will start flowing backward, causing it to begin accumulating inside the vein. Over time, this pool of blood will cause the vein to bulge, resulting in spider veins.
Moreover, spider veins that occur on the face result from sun damage or excessive pressure that often causes tiny blood vessels in the face to burst.
Spider Veins Vs. Varicose Veins
Spider veins and varicose veins are different forms of venous insufficiency, a medical condition. Spider veins are usually small, blue, purple, or red-colored thin lines that may appear slightly raised or flat. In contrast, varicose veins are much deeper and larger than spider veins. They are red or flesh-colored veins that usually appear twisted or lumpy. They have symptoms like:
- Swelling of the ankles or legs.
- Bleeding.
- Pain.
- Itching.
- An achy feeling in the legs.
Spider Vein Treatment Options
Fortunately, Dr. Kasha and his highly experienced team have come up with numerous treatment options for your spider vein problem that include:
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Lifestyle Changes
We will recommend lifestyle modifications such as exercising on a regular basis, creating a weight loss program, wearing compression stockings, and others to help prevent your spider veins from recurring.
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Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation involves using radio waves to close these damaged underlying veins, forcing your blood to pass through healthier veins.
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Laser Treatment
Laser treatments utilize light energy to help your body eliminate small and medium-sized spider veins.
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Sclerotherapy
During Sclerotherapy, Dr. Kasha will inject your spider veins with a special solution to cause them to shrink and disappear over time.
Spider Vein Prevention
The following are some easy-to-follow self-care guidelines that will help prevent your spider veins from reappearing or from worsening:
- Maintain a healthy weight. This helps keep your blood flowing normally.
- Use protective hats or apply sunscreen on the face daily to prevent exposing your veins to the harmful rays of the sun.
- Minimize standing or sitting for long periods without breaks.
- Avoid the extended use of saunas and hot tubs, as this can cause your veins to swell.
- Avoiding wearing tight clothing for extended periods as this could interfere with your normal blood flow.
- If spider veins cases are common in your family, consider using compression stockings.
Conclusion
Though usually not an immediate cause for concern, spider veins can negatively affect your self-esteem and damage your natural gorgeous complexion. Therefore, upon the appearance, make sure to consult with Dr. Atur Kasha, DO, board-certified general surgeon, and his team of medical experts at Desert West Vein &Surgery Center in El Paso, Texas. For a free consultation about your spider veins treatment options, make an appointment online or over the phone.
