Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are small, thin veins in the skin that usually appear pink or red in color and affect millions of people. They will often occur in clusters, which can give them the appearance of a bruise. They most commonly occur on the legs, but spider veins can also occur other places on the body, particularly on the face, around the nose. Spider veins can affect individuals of all ages. However, they tend to be more common, and get worse as we age.
Spider veins are related to varicose veins in the sense that they both represent a type of venous insufficiency. However, spider veins are most commonly a cosmetic issue, whereas the larger varicose veins are more frequently associated with physical symptoms such as leg pain, leg fatigue and other problems.
Spider veins tend to occur in groups with multiple veins. They are often numerous and can be unsightly. In other situations, spider veins can bleed. Bleeding is often a result of the spider veins being nicked while shaving. In other cases, the bleeding may be spontaneous. Bleeding from spider veins is far less common than cosmetic concerns. However, when it does occur, the bleeding can be significant. This is especially true in individuals who take blood thinning medication for other unrelated problems. Fortunately, there are a variety of excellent treatment options available.
One of the longest used treatments for spider veins is called sclerotherapy. A medication called a sclerosing agent is injected into the clusters of veins during sclerotherapy. In the past, saline was the most common sclerosing agent used. Today, at Shore Vascular & Vein Center, we have replaced saline with a newer agent known as Asclera. The main advantage to Asclera is that it is much more comfortable for patients. With the older saline injections, people would experience a burning sensation during the injections. With the newer Asclera that we use, there is almost no pain at all.
We also are one of a very few centers in our region to offer the Excel V laser. Excel V is a specialized award winning laser that is specifically designed to treat vascular conditions like spider veins. The laser can be used anywhere on the body, including the face. It is also an excellent treatment for port wine stain birth marks, rosacea and numerous other vascular conditions.
We also offer a treatment call VeinGogh. During VeinGogh treatment, energy is delivered directly into the vein through a tiny needle. VeinGogh can be very effective in treating spider veins on the face and legs. However, the Excel V laser has largely replaced it in our office.
Regardless of the method used, spider vein treatment requires time, patience and repetition. Multiple spider vein treatments are commonly needed and they are typically spread apart by a few weeks. Every patient’s condition is different. The total amount of treatments needed are impossible to state in an article such as this. Our doctor will thoroughly examine your situation, discuss the various treatment options, and give you a realistic expectation of how long the process should take in your particular case.
At Shore Vascular & Vein Center in Somers Point, New Jersey, we specialize in the most advanced treatments of vascular disease, including spider veins. Our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Jeffrey Gosin, M.D performs all treatments. We proudly serve Atlantic County, Cape May County, Ocean County and the surround southern N.J. areas. Call (609) 927-VEIN (8346) for a consultation or visit us on the web at GetGreatLegs.com.
