Did you know that about 60% of people develop unsightly spider veins throughout their lifetime? Spider veins may not cause serious medical complications, but they may make you self-conscious about showing your skin.
At Hamptons Vein & Vascular in Rutherford and Westfield, New Jersey, we understand the frustration unattractive spider veins can bring. Rashmi Sharma, MD, and our entire care team are dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. That’s why we offer comprehensive treatment to help you get rid of unwanted spider veins.
Before getting treated, there are some things you should know. Read on to learn more!
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are the small, damaged veins that show through the surface of your skin. While these red, blue, or purple veins aren’t indicators of illness and don’t often cause discomfort, their appearance can bring self-consciousness or embarrassment.
These damaged veins result when the valves that help your veins function stop working correctly. This causes the blood to pool instead of flow in the right direction. Over time, the vein can begin to bulge, causing the spider vein to spread.
Spider veins can happen anywhere, but are most commonly seen on your face and legs. In some instances, spider veins are a sign of another problem with your veins. They can also result from prolonged swelling due to injury or sun damage to the skin, which can cause blood vessels to burst.
How can I get rid of spider veins?
At Hamptons Vein & Vascular, Dr. Sharma helps you say goodbye to spider veins with a procedure called sclerotherapy. The treatment involves injecting a solution into the vein using tiny needles. The solution causes irritation in the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse. Over time, the blood clots and the small blood vessel becomes scar tissue.
Sclerotherapy is an in-office procedure and doesn’t require any anesthesia. You can start walking immediately after treatment, and you can expect to see results within a few weeks.
What should I do before getting treatment?
Before getting sclerotherapy for spider veins, it’s important to discuss any questions and concerns with Dr. Sharma. After reviewing your medical history and physical exam, and depending on which veins are involved, Dr. Sharma may do an ultrasound.
If you’re a smoker, Dr. Sharma may ask you to stop in the days before and after treatment, as smoking may impair healing. It’s also a good idea to avoid alcohol on the day of your appointment.
It’s important to inform Dr. Sharma if you take estrogen or hormone-based birth control as these can affect blood clotting. To reduce the risk of bruising, don’t take aspirin or other medications like ibuprofen or supplements for several days before and after sclerotherapy. Dr. Sharma will also talk to you about other medications you take and make any needed adjustments.
The day of spider vein treatment
On the day of your sclerotherapy procedure, be sure to eat a snack or light meal 1.5-2 hours before your appointment. Don’t use creams, lotions, or oils on your legs beginning the night before and continuing the day of your treatment.
Finally, be sure to dress comfortably. Loose-fitting pants, shorts, or a long skirt or dress will make it easy to stay as comfortable as possible.
If you’re ready to say goodbye to spider veins or to learn more about your treatment options, contact the Hamptons Vein & Vascular office nearest you today!