Spider Veins

Blood circulation is one of your body’s critical functions, but sometimes things go wrong, and spider veins may result. The good news is that the Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics team effectively reduces spider veins at their offices in Covington and Hammond, Louisiana. Recent technological advances mean treatments like sclerotherapy and laser therapy are safer and more effective than ever. Call Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics today for a spider vein assessment or schedule a consultation via the online booking form.

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are gnarled, bulging veins that most often appear in the legs, though they could affect any part of your body. They can be skin-colored but are frequently red, blue, or purple, forming twisted coils that may be tender to the touch.

Most people with spider veins see them primarily as a cosmetic concern — they just don’t like the way their legs look with spider veins. However, spider veins can also make your legs ache and feel heavy, especially after standing or walking. You may have burning sensations, itchiness, and trouble sleeping because of your discomfort.

Whether you have problems like these or wish to remove spider veins for cosmetic reasons, Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics can help.

What causes spider veins?

Spider veins develop when blood doesn’t flow as it should. They can be a sign of chronic venous insufficiency, a condition where the valves in your veins don’t work properly. These valves open to allow blood to travel toward your heart, then close to stop it from going back the wrong way. If the valves weaken, blood can pool, creating prominent varicose veins.

Spending extended time standing and walking can weaken the valves, especially if you have excess body weight or smoke. You’re also more likely to have spider veins if other family members do. Women, especially from middle age onward, are more prone to spider veins than men.

If you have spider veins, you must consult with a doctor who can determine if you have chronic venous insufficiency or another underlying medical concern. The Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics team will evaluate your veins and medical history before making treatment recommendations.

What treatments are available for spider veins?

It’s usually possible to destroy or remove spider veins without adversely affecting your circulation. Several in-office treatments are available, including:

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a fluid (sclerosant) directly into the vein. The fluid scars the vein’s interior, closing it off, so within a few weeks, the treated vein shrinks, and its appearance fades. In time, your body absorbs the vein’s remains. Some veins may require several treatments for optimal results. Sclerotherapy is safe and doesn’t require anesthesia.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy is usually most successful for smaller varicose veins. With this high-tech approach, your provider administers light pulses into the target vein. Noninvasive laser therapy is a popular choice due to its high success rate and the limited downtime required afterward.

Call Soine Dermatology & Aesthetics today or book an appointment online to benefit from the team’s extensive spider vein treatment experience.