Are you worried that you’re developing an unsightly and embarrassing spider vein?
Popular culture has us believing that spider veins are dangerous and could cause one to spontaneously faint or die.
Spider veins are a common phenomenon, most commonly seen in women. The condition isn’t serious and in most cases, can be readily treated. The best way to know if you have a spider vein is to know what it is and what issues might arise.
Read on for more information.
What is a Spider Vein?
Spider veins are a type of varicose vein caused by an increase in blood pressure in the legs. The veins become visible through the skin, looking like thin, web-like lines in shades of red, blue, or purple. They are seen most often in the legs and ankles, but can also occur in other areas of the body.
Spider veins occur when valves in the veins weaken and do not prevent the back-flow of blood. This causes the veins to become enlarged, pooled with blood, and visible through the surface of the skin. Spider veins are often painless, but can cause aching, heaviness, and discomfort especially when standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Are Spider Veins Dangerous?
Spider veins, though they are visible, they are typically painless and not considered dangerous. However, this doesn’t mean they can be ignored. Though they’re harmless, they can still point to underlying health issues.
Conditions leading to spider veins include:
- obesity
- high blood pressure
- varicose veins
Plus, all of these underlying conditions may be very serious, so it’s important to seek medical advice if you suspect any of them. Furthermore, some people may experience skin discoloration alongside spider veins, which could cause potential discomfort.
In very rare cases, spider veins may be a sign of deep vein thrombosis, which may lead to serious issues such as organ damage. Regardless, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor if you are worried about spider veins to assess the potential health threats, and of course for advice on treatments and prevention.
How to Deal With Spider Veins
A vascular surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders that involve the:
- arteries
- veins
- lymphatic system
One common disorder a vascular surgeon can help you with is spider veins. A spider vein, also known as telangiectasias, is a small reddish-purplish vein that can appear anywhere on the body, including the:
- legs
- face
- trunk
To treat spider veins, the vascular surgeon typically uses sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a chemical into the affected area to make the damaged vein collapse and disappear. A vascular surgeon may also use laser technology to reduce or eliminate the appearance of spider veins.
With either sclerotherapy or laser treatments, a vascular surgeon can help remove spider veins and give you better-looking and feeling skin. If you think you need help from a surgeon, find a vascular surgeon here.
Learn How to Deal With a Spider Vein
Spider veins can be highly concerning for many people, but thankfully there are treatments available. To experience quick and long-lasting results, it is recommended to contact a vein specialist and undergo a personalized treatment plan.
Be sure to do proper research and talk to the professionals that know best. Don’t hesitate to take control of your well-being, take the first step towards getting rid of your spider veins today!
