What are varicose and spider veins?

Varicose and spider veins are abnormal veins that have become twisted and enlarged. Although the term generally refers to veins in the legs, varicose and spider veins can occur elsewhere in the body.

What causes varicose and spider veins?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the appearance of varicose and spider veins. In some cases, the veins are caused by weak valves which create poor blood flow. This leads to the appearance of varicose veins. Genetic makeup can also be a cause of varicose veins, especially in women. Other risk factors that contribute to varicose veins are obesity, prolonged standing or seating, and pregnancy.

Who gets varicose and spider veins?
Both men and women can be prone to varicose or spider veins and they may occur at any age. Varicose and spider veins are often more common amongst women, especially during childbearing years. The risk of getting varicose and spider veins increases as people age.

What are the symptoms of varicose and spider veins?
Most people who suffer from varicose and spider veins don't show any major physical symptoms. Apart from being affected by the cosmetic effect of unsightly veins, there are many people who experience few other physical symptoms. Varicose veins can be more traumatic than spider veins with symptoms including aching, itching, cramping, inflammation, and fatigue in the affected areas. Some people complain of dull pain and a pressure sensation in the area where the varicose veins are present, while others experience more severe symptoms including thrombophlebitis, bleeding and even ulceration of the skin.

Are there any treatments available for varicose and spider veins?
Yes. For mild treatment, wearing of compression stockings is recommended. Elevating the affected leg while sitting or sleeping can also help alleviate the symptoms. For those affected by the more visible or uncomfortable effects of varicose and spider veins sclerotherapy or laser therapy is recommended. These are non-surgical procedures, which can permanently remove the unwanted veins.

Is treatment for varicose or spider veins always necessary?
If varicose and spider veins don’t produce any physical symptoms that make it hard for the individual to live a normal life, it is not always necessary. When the varicose or spider veins produce severe symptoms, such as ulcers on the skin, thrombophlebitis and bleeding, treatment should always be considered.

Are the available treatment for varicose and spider veins painful?
Sclerotherapy and laser therapy are virtually painless treatments for varicose and spider veins. These procedures can even be conducted right in the doctor's clinic, and can be completed within a day’s treatment. Lengthy hospital stays and pain are unnecessary.

Can varicose and spider veins be prevented?
Regular exercise helps to improve blood circulation and tone your leg muscles which can act as a preventative measure against varicose and spider veins. It also helps in keeping your weight down, which causes less pressure and strain on the veins. You can also help to prevent varicose and spider veins by changing positions or shifting weight frequently when standing or sitting. If sitting, crossed legs should be avoided, as should the wearing of tight clothes. For pregnant women, varicose or spider veins can be by avoided sleeping on your left side. This measure helps to keep the weight of the foetus off the major vein.

Can varicose and spider veins be dangerous?
Usually varicose and spider veins are harmless and their main issue is cosmetic. However, if leg pain, rapid heartbeat, or fever is experienced this could be the indication of a blood clot in the vein which can be potentially dangerous and medical treatment should be sought.

Are there any other known risks related to varicose and spider veins?
Small spider and unsightly veins can cause stinging and aching. However, they are not cause for serious health complications. Larger varicose veins can pose more risk to an individual’s overall wellbeing as they pose the potential risk of clotting, pigmentation, lipodermatoscleroris (woody-leg), leg ulcers and bleeding.

If you have more questions regarding varicose and spider veins and the available treatments please contact us. Ashbury is a centre dedicated to helping you with your cosmetic needs. We are more than happy to answer all your questions regarding any problems you may have with varicose and spider veins.