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Treatment of Spider VeinsTreatment of Spider Veins

Spider VeinsSpider Veins

Small blue or purple veins just

beneath the skin

Affect millions of Americans

Typically progressive

Often inherited

Affect ankles, calves, thighs,

nose

SymptomsSymptoms

Visual - Small blue or purple

veins can be seen just beneath

the surface of the skin

Stinging

Itching

CausesCauses

Heredity Excessive body weight Prolonged standing or sitting Pregnancy Hormonal changes Advancing Age Injury or trauma to vein Sun exposure

Treatment OptionsTreatment Options

Conservative Treatment

Sclerotherapy

Laser Treatment / Double-Injury Technique

Conservative TreatmentConservative Treatment

Weight loss

Exercise

Elevation

Compression stockings

Compression Stockings Prevent pooling of blood in veins

Promotes healthy blood flow by compressing veins

Ideally worn during long-periods of standing or sitting

Reduces discomfort and progression

Expensive

Hot

Difficult to put on

Sclerotherapy Alone Most popular treatment Tiny needles FDA-approved medication Irritates lining of vein, causing

it to collapse Two to four 20 minute sessions Minimal discomfort Can cause discoloration or

staining of skin

Laser & Sclerotherapy Treatment“Double-Injury Technique”

By using laser first, vein is damaged, allowing small amount of solution in the vein.

Decreased risk of skin staining Faster resolution than

sclerotherapy alone

Recovery Period?Recovery Period?

Walking encouraged day of procedure

Return to normal activities next day

Strenuous exercise (running or step aerobics

e.g.) after three weeks

Return to work next day

SummarySummary Spider veins cause discomfort and

embarrassment Exercise, weight loss, elevation and

compression stockings may alleviate symptoms Current treatment options have significantly

improved over recent years Laser vein therapy and Sclerotherapy are

effective treatment options Low risk and minimal associated recovery