What are spider veins?

Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that are seen on the surface of the skin. They are often purple, blue or red in color and are typically located on the legs and face. Spider veins are generally considered to be a cosmetic problem, but these veins can cause symptoms such as pain and itching.

What causes spider veins?

Spider veins form when already existing veins become enlarged and dilated due to abnormal blood flow. The appearance of spider veins may be stimulated by hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy and hormone-containing medications. Due to heredity, some people are predisposed to develop abnormal veins and it is not possible to prevent their formation. In some cases, the presence of spider veins can indicate problems in the larger veins that lie deeper beneath the skin.

How are spider veins treated?

The treatment of choice for spider veins is sclerotherapy. This technique involves the injection of a mild chemical solution into the diseased veins. The sclerosing agent causes the inner lining of the vein to become irritated, collapse and seal closed. The treated vein disappears as it is gradually absorbed by the body. The injections are relatively painless and only small, very fine needles are used. Anesthesia and sedation are not needed, as this procedure can be performed in the office.

Laser therapy is an alternative treatment for spider veins for patients that are non-responsive to sclerotherapy or who experience matting from sclerotherapy. The characteristics of each individual vein determine the operating settings of the laser. This technique is also performed in the office with minimal patient discomfort.