Spider Veins
Patients will often complain that they feel embarrassed to wear shorts or a bathing suit because of unsightly spider (varicose veins) on the legs.
What are spider veins?
Varicose veins are snarled, bluish-purple lines that rise above the surface of the skin. These enlarged veins are most commonly found in your legs and feet. That’s because standing and walking upright increases the pressure in the veins of your lower body.
For many people, varicose veins and spider veins is simply a cosmetic concern. But for other people, varicose veins can cause aching pain and discomfort. Additionally, varicose veins may also signal a higher risk of other circulatory problems.
Spider vein causes
Causes of varicose veins can include age and pregnancy.
Spider vein symptoms
Varicose veins usually don’t cause any pain. Varicose veins may also form in other places on your legs, from your groin to your ankle. Common signs of spider veins include:
- Veins that are dark purple or blue in color.
- Veins that appear twisted and bulging.
Spider vein diagnosis
To diagnose varicose veins, Dr. Shideler will perform a physical exam, including looking at your legs while you’re standing to check for swelling. He will also ask you to describe any pain and aching in your legs.
Some patients require an ultrasound test to see if the valves in your veins are functioning normally or if there’s any evidence of a blood clot.
Spider vein treatments
Although spider veins are usually harmless, though they can sometimes cause aching, burning or pain when standing or sitting for long periods of time.
If you experience symptoms or are concerned about the appearance of spider veins, sclerotherapy is available to remove spider veins. In this procedure, your doctor injects the veins with a solution that scars and closes those veins. This causes blood to reroute through healthier veins.
Treated spider veins will fade in a few weeks. Sclerotherapy is a well-proven procedure and has been in use since the 1930s. Laser surgery is also available. Dr. Shideler has performed sclerotherapy on spider veins for over 20 years. Shideler Dermatology and Skin Care Center also offers the newest lasers for safe and effective vein removal. Call 317.846.2396 today and schedule a consultation to learn more.