Spider veins, clinically called telangiectasias, refer to blood vessels in the top surface of the skin that become abnormally dilated. They get their name from the web of blue or red veins that frequently spread across your legs. These veins occur most commonly on the legs, but they may also appear on the face, arms, chest, and back. There are many different spider vein causes.
This is a common problem for people in Burnaby, Coquitlam, Vancouver, Port Moody, and elsewhere, and studies have shown that nearly 84 percent of the people have spider veins on their right leg itself. These veins can be aesthetically displeasing for some, but they can also cause symptoms such as itching, burning, heaviness, and fatigue in the affected areas.
Who Suffers From Spider Veins?
Small pre-existing veins become enlarged and dilate. These veins may be stimulated by several factors such as hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, and estrogen-based medications. This problem is more common in women than men. Although the exact cause of spider veins is unknown, some spider vein causes comprise of:
- Genetic factors
- Occupations that require long hours of standing, such as factory workers, teachers, and nurses
- Obesity and being overweight
- Fluctuations in hormones
- Hormonal replacement therapy
- Blood clotting history
- Use of birth control pills
- Trauma or skin injury
- UV light exposure
- Previous vein surgery is also one factor
Besides the patchwork of red and blue veins that one can see through the skin, people with this problem may experience swelling, tiredness, or a feeling of heaviness in their legs.
Reduce Your Risk of Spider Veins
You may not completely prevent these veins from appearing, but you can lower your risk with the following measures:
Ease Leg Pressure
Try to reduce the pressure on your legs by controlling your weight and avoid standing for long durations.
Ensure Regular Flow of Blood
Increase the leg circulation and strengthen the muscles of your leg by running or walking.
Get Support
If you often stand for a long time, use lightweight compression stockings. These stockings help in managing several symptoms.
Lift Your Feet
Raising your legs is another effective treatment.
Treatment for Spider Veins
If you are sick and tired of your veins, you owe it to yourself to learn more about your spider vein treatment options. Some of the treatments that can offer the desired results are:
Sclerotherapy
This is one of the more widespread treatments of this condition. During the treatment, a special solution is injected into the vein, causing it to close.
Laser Treatment
Although many people opt for sclerotherapy, you could treat the smaller, reddish, fine veins with laser treatment.
Treating Your Spider Veins
Spider veins are largely a cosmetic problem, and you could leave it untreated if it does not bother you. However, if you are not happy with their appearance or if they are painful, come to Lougheed Laser Centre in Burnaby for professional spider vein treatment. Contact us today to book an appointment and get started.
