Spider and Varicose Veins
 Both
spider veins and varicose veins are enlarged, dilated, superficial
blood vessels that can appear red or blue. They can occur together
or separately.
- Spider veins are smaller in size and commonly appear
on the legs and face. They are about the width of a large hair
and may appear as a single vein or in a matted, branched or webbed
pattern. Spider veins are commonly treated with laser light or
sclerotherapy.
- Varicose veins are larger and may be raised above the
surface of the skin. These may cause pain or discomfort most commonly
described as a throbbing or burning sensation. Varicose veins
can be treated with sclerotherapy, intravascular laser or radiofrequency.
In some cases, unwanted veins are treated surgically by either
tying them off or removing them.
Causes
The exact cause of dilated blood vessels is not known. Researchers
do know that they occur in women more commonly than in men. Possible
causes may be:
- A family history of spider and/or varicose veins
- Female hormones released in puberty, by birth control pills,
hormone replacement therapy or pregnancy
- An injury
- Wearing tight hosiery or girdles
- Sun exposure
- Other spider or varicose veins
Treatment for unwanted veins is between 50% and 90% effective,
depending on the patient and the veins being treated. Because spider
vein treatment is usually done for cosmetic reasons, most insurance
providers do not cover it. Insurance may, however, cover all or
some if the treatment costs for larger veins if there is a medical
reason for their treatment.
Reduce Your Risk
Because some causes, such as heredity, are out of our control,
the appearance of unwanted veins can't be completely prevented.
That aside, research suggests that the following steps may minimize
their appearance:
- Wearing support hose
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet
- Using sunscreen, especially on the face
- Avoiding high heels
For more information or for a cosmetic consultation, please
call 401-444-3489.
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