What causes spider & varicose veins?

Varicose veins develop from faulty valves in your veins and weakened vein walls. Normally, the one-way valves in these veins keep the blood flowing efficiently against gravity up toward the heart. When these valves do not function properly blood begins to pool, pressure builds up, and the veins become weakened, enlarged and twisted. Some people may be more likely than others to develop varicose veins because of heredity (genetics) and the aging process. Varicose veins may also result from conditions that increase pressure on the leg veins, such as being overweight, pregnancy or standing for long periods of time.

What are the symptoms?

If you have varicose veins, your legs may feel heavy, tired, achy and painful. Symptoms may worsen after standing or sitting for long periods of time. Some people may not experience these symptoms, but may be concerned about the appearance of the veins. Varicose veins can also cause skin color changes, dry, thinned skin, inflammation, open sores (ulcers), or bleeding after a minor injury. With varicose veins, a blood clot or inflammation may develop in a small vein near the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are common and are usually not a sign of a serious medical problem. However, in some cases, varicose veins can signal a blockage in the deeper veins, called deep vein thrombosis, which requires evaluation and possibly treatment.

How are varicose veins diagnosed?

Your doctor will examine your legs and feet. Varicose veins are easy to see, especially when standing. The doctor will also check for tender areas, swelling, skin color changes, ulcers and other signs of skin breakdown. Additional testing, including Ultrasound and Duplex Ultrasound may also be needed if you are considering varicose vein surgery or other vein treatments.

How many treatments will I need?

Each patient’s individual treatment needs are different. Treatment will depend on the number, size and location of the incompetent veins, as well as how fast you heal. The level of cosmetic results you desire is also a factor. After an initial consultation we can give you a rough estimate of the number of treatments you will need.

Does the laser work for leg veins?

No existing thru-the-skin lasers can offer consistent, satisfactory results in the treatment of spider veins on the legs. Such lasers can help in special situations, especially in combination with other methods of treatment like sclerotherapy. Only facial veins can be effectively treated with lasers. Over the past 5 years, lasers have been used endovenously (from inside the vein) to treat large varicose veins with great success. This procedure is known as endovenous laser treatment.

Who gets spider and varicose veins?

Women experience higher incidences of vein problems than men and men are less likely to seek treatment. When traditional surgical ligation and stripping was the only treatment option for patients with large vein problems, more women than men opted for treatment. However, with new minimally invasive procedures, more men are opting for large vein procedures than in the past.

Can the veins that are visible on other areas of my body be treated?

Aging, weather, and sun exposure can make hand veins more pronounced. Dilated hand veins can easily be treated with sclerotherapy. Many women also tend to have visible breast veins, especially after breast augmentation. Breast veins can also be treated with sclerotherapy.

Once treated, will varicose veins reappear?

If you have a history of developing varicose or spider veins new veins may reappear in the same or in other areas of the body. Additional treatments may be necessary for new veins every few years.

Will my insurance cover treatment?

The treatments and procedures performed for varicose veins are covered by most insurance plans and medicare, when deemed medically necessary and not cosmetic alone. Spider veins are most often considered cosmetic and are not often covered. Each insurance plan’s coverage is different and only upon receiving the treatment authorization request will they make the final decision on coverage. Our staff will assist you in securing coverage, when available, from your insurance company. We also have interest free payment plans available for qualified applicants. Click here for more information and an application. You will need to enter ID #12385 to apply for financing.