Varicose Veins

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are large, swollen blood vessels that develop in the legs. They can twist and turn, presenting a jagged appearance. Their smaller counterparts, spider veins, typically appear in the legs or face. 

These similarly jagged veins can be red, purple, or blue. Both varicose veins and spider veins are highly visible through the skin.

What causes varicose veins?

Many women experience varicose and spider veins as they age. Some of the most common causes include:

• Genetics
• Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause
• Obesity
• Hormonal contraception such as birth control pills
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Constipation
• Tumors
• Blood clots

Unfortunately, spider and varicose veins are often the results of your occupation. Careers that require plenty of standing — nursing, teaching, factory work, hair styling, etc. — increase your risk of developing highly visible veins in the legs.

What is the treatment for varicose veins?

Dr. Albaugh recommends several spider and varicose vein treatments to minimize the appearance of bulging veins:

Diet and exercise

Inactivity and weight gain both contribute to large, painful leg veins. A balanced diet and regular exercise, such as walking, can minimize the appearance of spider and varicose veins. This is a conservative approach that also reduces chronic leg pain caused by enlarged veins.

Compression socks

Compression socks promote circulation in the legs and prevent varicose veins from worsening. The consistent pressure of the socks reduces leg pain and directs blood flow back to the heart, reducing pain overall.

Sclerotherapy

While conservative treatments can reduce leg pain and minimize the appearance of varicose veins, they don’t provide dramatic results. For smooth legs that are clear of bulging veins, Dr. Albaugh recommends sclerotherapy.

With sclerotherapy, Dr. Albaugh inserts a small needle directly into the vein and injects a highly concentrated saline solution that causes the vein to gradually disappear over time. 

The process takes anywhere from three to six weeks, during which time your legs should start to feel lighter and less painful.

Both spider and varicose veins are painful and uncomfortable. That’s why Dr. Albaugh provides targeted sclerotherapy at Visage Ventura Medi-Spa. Call or book an appointment online today to learn more.