4 Treatments For Varicose And Spider Veins

Varicose veins and spider veins are common, especially as you get older. Varicose veins are usually big, bulky blue veins that bulge from under your skin. Spider veins are small, thin purplish lines that form along the skin. They can be bothersome, but extreme varicose veins can be painful and dangerous. Luckily, there are many treatments for varicose and spider veins.

Lifestyle Changes

The cheapest way to improve your condition is with lifestyle changes. If you are overweight, losing weight can go a long way in treating varicose and spider veins naturally. It may also help new ones from forming. One of the best exercises (even if you aren't overweight) for varicose and spider veins is walking. Another good option is to get support stockings for varicose veins. These don't really fix the problem, but they are a great way to relieve pain.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is an established treatment commonly used to get rid of spider veins and some small varicose veins. During the procedure, you are awake, and you typically do not need to have the area numbed. A small amount of concentrated saline solution is injected into the vein. Eventually, this causes it to die and disappear. This procedure is so simple and fast that you can even have it done during your lunch break from work.

Laser Treatments

Lasers are being used for just about everything in the world of cosmetic procedures, and varicose veins are no different. Endovenous laser treatment uses a laser fiber that is inserted into the vein. The lasers shine into the vein, eventually causing it to collapse. It's another outpatient treatment, but you may need an anesthetic. Surface lasers are also available. They work to destroy the veins from above the skin, so there are no needles. The lasers can cause some mild discomfort.

Surgery

Non-surgical treatment usually works well for spider veins and small varicose veins, but for larger ones, you may need surgery. One type of surgery involves tying off the vein, but in other cases, an entire segment of the vein may need to be removed. For large surface veins, your doctor may recommend ambulatory phlebectomy, which uses small incisions that do not require stitches. Surgery may require local or general anesthesia, but patients usually can leave the hospital the same day as the surgery.  

Varicose veins and spider veins can cause many people stress and anxiety over their appearance. Luckily, there are many ways to remove or destroy these veins. If you would like more information regarding varicose or spider vein treatments, contact a provider like The Surgical Clinic.


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