Spider veins can occur when the valves in your veins stop working properly. Spider veins are small varicose veins that appear in web-like red and blue patterns on your legs, often changing their appearance. While most often these veins are small enough not to cause pain or swelling, they can distort the appearance of your legs, often making you uncomfortable in clothing that shows them off.
Who Is at Risk for Spider Veins?
While anyone can develop spider veins, spider veins are most common in women and even more prevalent in women who have had children. You also could be at a higher risk if you are overweight, spend a lot of time on your feet, or have a family history of varicose veins.
When Should You Get Spider Vein Treatment?
Since spider veins do not often cause pain, you can schedule treatment at a time when it is most convenient to you. While spider veins do not necessarily turn into painful varicose veins, if you have other risk factors or a family history of varicose veins, you may want to schedule a consultation when you first notice your spider veins. Spider vein treatment is typically an outpatient procedure and requires little downtime afterward, though it can take one to two months to fully recover from treatment.
Sclerotherapy
The treatment most commonly used for spider veins is sclerotherapy, which involves treatment with injections. A solution is injected directly into the affected vein. The compound in the injection will begin to irritate the vein, eventually causing it to collapse and then fade. You may require multi-injections for the process to be completed. After surgery, you can expect bruising and will need to wear compression socks or stockings for some time, but you should be able to resume regular activity within a day or two. So, if getting off work is difficult, it may be best to plan the procedure right before the weekend.
Laser Treatment
Another option for spider vein treatment is laser treatment. This process uses an intense beam of light that is strong enough to obliterate the vein through the skin. Multiple laser sessions may be needed and sometimes may be combined with sclerotherapy. The recovery time is similar for both processes.
What Time of Year is Best for Spider Vein Treatment?
Depending on the severity of your spider veins and how much area they cover, you may need multiple treatments to address the issue. In more severe cases, the treatment processes can take anywhere between four to six months for your legs to return to a more normal appearance. If you have a trip planned for a warmer climate or want to hit the beach in the summer but are worried about bruising, it may be best to schedule your treatment to begin in early fall or six months before your scheduled trip. Most patients also prefer treatment in the fall and winter months since the compression socks and stockings can be warm, making them uncomfortable in the hotter months.
Get Your Varicose Veins Treated at Tri-City Vein
Don’t let the appearance of your spider veins keep you out of shorts. Why not take care of the problem and get back to looking and feeling your best by scheduling an appointment with an expert phlebologist at Tri-City Vein in Phoenix, Arizona. At Tri-City Vein, we provide many vein treatment options designed to cure a broad range of venous disorders, including spider veins. Meet our vein physicians in Phoenix to discuss one of our simple, proven procedures that are guaranteed to work on your vein concerns. Contact us today at (480) 835-6100 to schedule your consultation.
