Varicose Veins
Vein Treatments
Click on either of these two links to go to that section of this page:
Varicose Veins
Spider Veins
Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins are enlarged veins that are swollen and raised above the surface of the skin and are commonly found on the back of calves or on the inside of the leg. The cause of this condition is the weakening of veins pumping blood back to the heart that causes blood to leak back into the vein and collect there.
Over time, varicose veins enlarge and severe pooling of blood in the veins can slow return of blood to the heart. The result is a increased possibility of blood clots that can travel from the legs to the lungs, where they can block the heart and lungs from functioning. Other problems associated with untreated varicose veins include sores, skin ulcers, ongoing irritation, swelling, and painful rashes of the legs.
"It's generally caused by venus valve dysfunction, and many people believe when they see the vein, they say 'well, this looks ugly', but they do not take care of them, especially men. And what happens over time, because of the venus congestion, you develope what is called stasis dermatitus around the ankle, and that can progress to the venus ulcer."
Varicose Vein Treatments
To address varicose veins, there are several medical procedures available.
Sclerotherapy
uses an injection of solution to irritate the lining of a blood vessel, causing it to swell and stick together. Over time, the vein fades into scar tissue.
The venus closure technique (endovenous laser or endovenous radiofrequency) allow closure of the vein with a minimally invasive technique.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
may also be used when varicose veins are too large for scleropathy.
Spider Veins
Spider Veins are small dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin or mucous membranes, measuring between 0.5 and 1 millimeter in diameter.
They can develop anywhere on the body but are commonly seen on the face around the nose, cheeks, and chin.
They can also develop on the legs, although when they occur on the legs, they often have underlying venous reflux or "hidden varicose veins"
Spider Vein Treatments:
Leg Veins
A common treatment for spider veins is sclerotherapy. In this in-office procedure, veins are injected with a solution which causes them to collapse and fade from view. The procedure typically improves not only the cosmetic appearance but associated symptoms as well. A few sessions may be required to obtain maximum benefit.
Face Neck & Chest Veins
Electro-cautery is a minimally invasive technique used in the treatment of spider veins, fine telangiectasia, small cherry angiomas. Most patients find the treatment to be quick, with minimal discomfort.
More Information
There is a brilliant app you can download - SIGVARIS Phlebo-App
It has the following:
- Virtual human body with pumping heart and blood flow in arteries and veins
- Anatomical location of the most important veins in phlebology
- Video clips on how venous diseases develop
- Explanatory text boxes on venous diseases
It may help you learn more about vein health.
