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Spider veins are clusters of small blood vessels that sit close to the surface of the skin, often occurring on the face and legs. Colored red, purple, or blue, these skin blemishes are considered unsightly by many people who experience them. If you are embarrassed by your spider veins, rest easy, as there are solutions available.

The Causes of Spider Veins

Spider veins are due to a structural abnormality in the blood vessels. If a vein’s valve becomes defective, a back-flow of blood occurs, allowing it to gather and build pressure in the vein, thereby weakening the vessel walls. Spider veins are the result. They are very common in adults, although more frequent in women.

There are some preventativespider veins steps you can take to help avoid spider veins, including exercising regularly, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and maintaining a healthy weight. That said, genetic factors are also a cause, so there is no surefire preventative measure.

How They Are Treated

Sclerotherapy is usually considered the gold standard of spider vein treatment. With this medical procedure, a liquid solution is injected directly into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and later fade away. This can be done at a doctor’s office, as no anesthesia is required.

More recently, physicians have started turning to lasers to nix spider veins. If you’re not a fan of needles, this option is ideal for you. It works by focusing a beam of light on the affected vessels and then heating and damaging them until they fade. For both lasers and sclerotherapy, multiple sessions are required for best results.

Where to Get Help

If you’re thinking of eliminating these blemishes, see a trained medical professional. You want to rule out any underlying health reason for this vein abnormality. Also, the tools needed for effective treatment can cause serious damage if used incorrectly.

 

For an experienced doctor who can handle everything from spider vein removal to Botox® and microdermabrasion, contact Lauren A. Daman, MD, PC. Located in Hartford, CT, this dermatology office provides personalized care that will put you at ease. Dr. Daman and her team provide both medical and cosmetic treatments that have patients looking and feeling their best. Find out more about their services online. For an appointment, call (860) 246-3533 today.

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