Plus, Find Out How to Get Rid of Spider Veins in Pittsburgh, PA
Spider veins are small, red or purple blood vessels that are not typically raised, but are visible through the skin. They are very common on the thighs and legs, but can appear on the face, and usually form in clusters.
Spider veins are very common; more than 50% of women will have them, and the risk increases as you age. They don’t usually cause any pain or other symptoms.
The presence of these veins can make you feel less confident in your appearance, and you can take steps to treat them when they appear.
Are They the Same as Varicose Veins?
No, spider veins and varicose veins are not the same. Fortunately, spider veins are often more benign than varicose veins.
Varicose veins are veins that have become abnormally swollen and large. Varicose veins are generally the result of valves within the veins becoming defective and insufficient. Varicose veins are sometimes bluish-green in color. They often protrude from the surface of the skin and frequently have a serpentine or ropy appearance.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Although spider veins aren’t inherently dangerous, they can be an early sign of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a type of vein disease.
Spider veins are caused by unhealthy valves inside feeder veins, which leads to blood flowing backwards instead of upwards towards the heart. As a result, some veins become dead ends and no longer function as they should, allowing blood to pool and become visible under the surface of the skin. Spider veins are caused by one or a variety of the following factors: lifestyle, heredity, history of blood clots, prolonged standing, and hormones among others.
Can I Prevent Spider Veins?
You may be able to help prevent getting spider veins by wearing compression stockings and exercising. However, in some cases, they are not avoidable due to your genetics or other health factors.
You can try to:
- Avoid sitting and standing for too long at one time.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Tight clothing can interfere with normal blood circulation.
- Get regular exercise.
- Flex your feet and ankles and elevate your legs. This helps support blood flow.
- Maintain a healthy weight, which can limit the pressure put on your blood vessel walls.
Keep in mind, however, that there is no way to change your genetic predisposition to developing spider veins. Fortunately, if you have them, you can get help from professionals who specialize in treatment!
What Is the Best Spider Vein Treatment in Pittsburgh?
Before you can get spider vein treatment, you will meet with one of our medical providers for a consultation. At your appointment, the medical provider will review your medical history and family history. Then, they’ll examine your legs to determine if your spider veins can be appropriately treated cosmetically or if they are a part of a deeper vein issue.
If the provider determines spider vein treatment is right for you, we will help you book an appointment to begin your treatment sessions. Typically, multiple treatment sessions are needed to get desired results.
Can I Get Rid of Spider Veins for Good?
Although sclerotherapy is very effective, new spider veins may pop up at any time.
Next Steps for Spider Vein Treatment
If you suspect you have spider veins, particularly on your legs or face, it’s important that you contact a licensed medical provider who specializes in treating them. In the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, area, you have a reputable option.
You’ll need to attend a consultation appointment, during which time your provider will create a treatment plan tailored to your concerns.
After your consultation, you’ll set up a series of appointments for your spider vein treatments, after which you’ll soon return to your most confident self!