Millions of people notice the appearance of tiny purple lines on their legs. They are one of the most common conditions that we see at Shore Vascular & Vein Center. Some people only notice a few of them scattered over the legs. In other people there are many dense dark purple lines. These finding are what we commonly call spider veins.
What Spider Veins Are
They are also known by the more technical term, telengiectasias. Spider veins are related to varicose veins. Both spider veins and varicose veins are considered forms of venous insufficiency. Spider veins are the mildest form of this condition. They are abnormally dilated (enlarged) veins within the skin, whereas varicose veins are larger dilated veins that usually lie a bit deeper, in the tissues beneath the skin.
Causes and Concern
For most people, spider veins are a cosmetic concern. They cause dark lines and spots on the legs that frequently look like bruises. Some people with spider veins may experience localized discomfort such as burning or itching. Also, in certain cases, spider veins can cause bleeding that is described as perfuse. Spider veins can occur anywhere on the legs, but two of the most common locations are the inside of the thighs and around the ankles.
Spider veins are mostly caused by genetic reasons. While they may be somewhat more common in people who spend a lot of time up on their legs, such as for work, there really isn’t anything that prevents them. The good news, however is that there are various treatment options available that are safe, effective and easy to have performed.
Treatments
One of the most common treatments for spider veins is sclerotherapy. During sclerotherapy, a medication is injected through a tiny needle directly into the vein. Since the veins are right on the skin surface, the medication can be seen flowing through the vein, confirming that it is placed throughout the veins being treated. This causes the tiny veins to collapse. They are then absorbed by the body over time. There is minimal discomfort associated with sclerotherapy and people return to the usual activities immediately. There are a few specific instructions that are explained by the doctor. Individuals are also instructed to wear compression stocking for a few days.
Another common treatment for spider veins is laser. A specific type of laser energy is delivered into the veins which causes them to collapse. The body then absorbs the veins over time, eliminating or lessening the appearance.
Shore Vascular and Vein Center
At Shore Vascular & Vein Center, all procedures are performed by Dr. Jeffrey Gosin, a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon with over 20 year of experience with thousands of successful vein treatment procedures. We treat varicose and spider veins with minimally invasive procedures, such as ClosureFast (Venefit), sclerotherapy, microphlebectomy, Excel V laser, and other treatments. We specialize in the latest state-of-the-art techniques.
If you are experiencing the discomfort or appearance of unsightly varicose veins or spider veins, treatment is easier than you might realize. Shore Vascular & Vein Center and Aesthetic Laser Center is the premiere center for the treatment of vascular conditions, serving individuals in Atlantic County, Cape May County, Cumberland County, Ocean County and the surrounding areas in southern New Jersey. Call (609) 927-VEIN (8346) to schedule a consultation or visit us on the web at www.GetGreatLegs.com.
