FACTS

Many people suffer from varicose and spider veins. They may present as a cosmetic problem or they may be symptomatic (i.e. pain, throbbing, fatigue, burning, etc.). Usually they are a "medical problem" not a cosmetic one. Appearing innocent at first they will usually worsen and if not treated promptly can have serious consequences.

What are Varicose & Spider Veins?

Varicose veins are the unsightly, enlarged and distended veins bulging above the surface of the skin with a tortuous appearance. Spider veins are the tiny veins that appear red, blue or purple on the surface of the skin. Typically they only represent the symptom and are the tip of the iceberg.

What are the causes?

Heredity, hormonal changes, puberty, pregnancy, menopause, birth control pills and hormone replacement can cause defects in the one-way valves of the veins creating a build up of pressure. Obesity, aging, injury, prolonged standing and sitting are also culprits.

What are the symptoms?

Decreased energy levels, chronically tired and heavy feeling legs, pain (dull & aching) from prolonged standing or sitting, swollen ankles, tingling, numbness, burning, cramping and itching are some of the symptoms. Discoloration of the skin and ulcers of the legs are a manifestation of very advanced disease and are the result of blood leaking into the surrounding tissue.

A word of caution! If you have continuous pain in one or both legs, a deep vein thrombosis (blood clot) needs to be considered. You should contact your
physician at once.

Pregnancy

Treatment before, between and after pregnancy makes future pregnancies much more comfortable, improves self-image and slows the progression of new varicose veins. Many complaints of tiredness, restlessness, and heaviness in the legs, muscle cramps during the night, swollen feet and new onset or worsening varicose veins all impair the pregnant woman's well being. Although the pregnant woman is not a candidate for sclerotherapy, she would benefit greatly from special compression stockings.

Blood Clots

There is an increased incidence of blood clots on flights, especially long ones. In fact, the 4th leading cause of death is pulmonary embolus due to blood clots. Compression stockings and mobility will help.

Facial Veins

Laser is a safe and effective way to remove hyperpigmentation and vascularity - especially on the face, neck and chest. Our clinic utilizes different lasers for the best results. Click here for more information (please note: you will be taken to our Spa Med site).

What Can I Expect?

After sclerotherapy, the vessels disappear over a period of months. Immediate resumption of normal activity is the norm, including walking, low impact exercise, swimming, or cycling. Some discomfort may occur, but it is usually minimal.

What if veins go untreated?

It is recommended to treat varicose veins at an early age, even in the teens, especially if there is a prominent family history. Only a small percentage of patients have isolated varicose and spider veins not due to any other cause, whereas the majority will eventually notice a worsening of their condition. The larger veins are at increased risk for clots and skin ulcerations.