Spider Vein Information
If you are an
adult woman, chances are 50/50 that you now have or will
eventually get unsightly spider veins. These small, thin
veins - red, blue, or purple in color - lie close to the
surface of the skin and usually appear on the thighs,
calves, and ankles.
A number of
different factors cause development of spider veins,
including heredity, pregnancy, and other events that cause
hormonal shifts. Weight gains, occupations or activities
that require prolonged standing or sitting, and the use of
some medications also contribute to spider veins.
The good news
is that today spider veins are easier than ever to eliminate
with a proven simple procedure called sclerotherapy. This
procedure calls for veins to be injected with a sclerosing
solution, causing them to collapse and fade from view. The
procedure can also be successful at remedying symptoms
associated with spider veins such as burning, aching,
swelling, and night cramps.
As effective
as it is sclerotherapy can not promise that every affected
vein will disappear completely as a result of one treatment.
After each session, the veins should appear lighter. Usually
two to three sessions are required to achieve the best
results.
Lasting only
15 to 45 minutes, a typical sclerotherapy session is
relatively quick. After the skin over your spider veins is
cleansed with an antiseptic solution, sclerosing solution is
placed into the veins. The procedure is virtually painless.
The needle
that is used for sclerotherapy is so thin and the sclerosing
solution is so mild that pain is minimal. A cotton ball and
compression tape are applied to each area. In addition to
compression tape that is applied during the procedure,
tight-fitting compression hose are worn for 48 hours to
promote healing. You need to wait a month before you have
your second series of injections in the same sites. After
each treatment, further improvement is noticed.
Most patients
are extremely satisfied with the improved appearance of
their legs after sclerotherapy. Skin appears younger, clear,
and healthier. If, like so many women, you have been forced
to wear long skirts and slacks to hide your spider veins,
you will love the opportunity to change your wardrobe. Even
though sclerotherapy can't prevent new spider veins from
emerging, touchups or full treatments for new veins as they
surface maintains your new look.
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