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- Akron Dermatology
- 157 West Cedar St.
- Suite 101
- Akron, Ohio 44307-2551
- Tel: 330-535-7100
- Fax: fax 330-535-2600
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Spider and Varicose Veins
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are small blood vessels that have become dilated and appear on the surface of the skin. They are most commonly found on the legs but can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, breasts, and hands. Although on rare occasions, they can indicate a venous disorder, they are generally harmless.
They appear as thin, threadlike lines or clusters that are pink, red, blue, or purple in color.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged or swollen blood vessels that are caused by weakened walls in the veins. Unlike spider veins, they may be associated with other disorders, such as thrombosis or venous clots, venous stasis ulcers or swollen, tender veins.
What causes spider and varicose veins?
While experts don’t know the exact cause of spider and varicose veins, pregnancy, family history, and hormonal factors are all suspected contributors.
What are the available treatments for spider and varicose veins?
The most common treatment for spider veins is sclerotherapy, which is outlined in the next section. Other treatments include:
- Laser treatments, including intense pulsed light (IPL) and high-intensity lasers.
- Electrodessication, during which veins are sealed off with an electrical current.
- Surgical ligation, during which a vascular surgeon makes an incision in the skin and either ties off or removes the damaged blood vessel.
- Radiofrequency ablation, which is progressively replacing surgical ligation because it can be performed with a local anesthetic on an outpatient basis
- Ambulatory phlebectomy, which involves removal of damaged veins through a series of tiny incisions along the enlarged vein’s path, under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis
Some dermasurgeons may combine procedures for optimal results, depending on the patient’s preferences and lifestyle.
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is widely considered the most effective treatment for spider and varicose leg veins. It can usually be performed on an outpatient basis with very little scarring or side effects.
During sclerotherapy, a solution containing saline and other chemicals is injected into the vein with a very small needle. The solution causes the vein to close or collapse, greatly reducing or even eliminating its appearance. Sclerotherapy may require multiple treatments of one to three injections per vein (more than one vein can be treated at a time in one session).
After the procedure, the patient usually must wear bandages and support hose and avoid vigorous exercise and contact sports for up to several weeks. However, walking and moderate exercise are recommended.
Side effects are minor and include slight swelling and bruising, discoloration, mild soreness, and redness, all at the injection site.
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Last updated December 10th, 2009.
This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of your physician or health care professional. Communicate promptly with your physician or other health care professional with any health-related questions or concerns.
Be sure to follow specific instructions given to you by your physician or health care professional.
Additional Resources
- Overview
- Treatment Summary
- Before & After
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