Have you been considering a spider vein removal procedure? You’re probably wondering whether the red, blue, and purple tree-like branches are dangerous to your health. The good news is they’re usually not. Spider veins are the mildest manifestation of venous reflux disease. We’ll teach you all about what causes spider veins, how to prevent them, and vein treatments available.
Things to Know before Spider Vein Removal
Spider vein causes
Spider veins are extremely common, especially on the thighs, calves, and ankles. Thin, red lines similar to these surface on the facial area, too, but they are not the same. Veins that appear on the face are usually dilated capillaries. Doctors still don’t know the exact cause of spider veins, but these factors might make you more likely to develop them:
- Hormonal shifts
- Obesity or weight gain
- Long amounts of time in one position
- Different kinds of prescriptions
Women run a higher risk for spider veins. About 50% of women ages 40 to 50 have venous reflux (spider vein or varicose veins), while 75% of women ages 60 to 70 do, compared to only 25% of men ages 30 to 40 and 50% of men 70 and over.
Spider vein prevention
Although some hereditary makeup might make a spider vein removal procedure inevitable as you age, there are ways to slow down progression. Prevent spider veins by:
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Keeping a healthy weight
- Avoiding high heels
- Uncrossing legs
- Taking breaks to stretch and move after sitting or standing for a long time
People who have already developed venous insufficiency benefit from wearing compression stockings and elevating their legs for 30-minute increments throughout the day.
Spider vein treatment
There’s good news: spider vein treatment is available. But there’s also bad news, some insurance companies may not cover the procedure until your venous insufficiency proves to be medical instead of cosmetic. If veins start to bleed, swell, or itch they could be considered a medical condition.
Spider vein treatment options include:
- Sclerotherapy: An irritant solution is shot into the vein causing it to swell, then it seals itself shut
- Laser and Intense Pulsed Light: A spider vein removal laser is used to send heat to the vein and minimize damaged tissue
Ready for Spider Vein Removal?
Are you ready to take your body back from unsightly spider veins? Set up your free consultation with Las Vegas Vein Center.