If you have a lot of spider veins on your legs and do not like wearing shorts, this can be frustrating. This is especially true when it is very hot outside. Fortunately, there are treatments available to get rid of these veins, three of which are listed below. You can then start showing off your legs this summer.
Sclerotherapy
One treatment available that is not as invasive as other types is known as sclerotherapy. This therapy can be done in the doctor's office as it does not require anesthesia. During the treatment, the doctor injects sclerosing agents, which is a type of chemicals, into the spider veins. These chemicals cause the spider vein to close, and this causes the blood to be directed to another area of your legs. With no blood, the spider veins cannot appear. You will notice an immediate difference, but as time goes by, you will see more and more spider veins diminish.
This treatment can be done in different areas of your body, such as the calves, thighs, feet, ankles, and face. New spider veins will not grow back in the same areas. Side effects include redness to the injected area, swelling, and bruising.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is also available but may not work as well as sclerotherapy. This is because over time, you can still get spider veins in the area that was treated. During this treatment, the doctor uses a special device to aim strong lights into the spider veins. This is much less invasive and less painful as no injections are made.
Laser surgery will make the spider veins slowly fade but will never completely disappear. How long it takes for the veins to fade depends on how many spider veins you have. Some common side effects include bruising, swelling, redness, and itching.
Self-Treatment
Self-treatment will not cause your current spider veins to fade or disappear but can help prevent new spider veins from appearing.
One important thing you should do is to improve the circulation in your legs. This includes doing special exercises, which your doctor can suggest. You will also be asked to elevate your legs above your heart for specific periods. If you have a job where you sit down for much of the day, get up from your chair and walk for 20 to 30 minutes. If you stand a lot during the day, sit down every 20 to 30 minutes to give your legs a rest. If you take a bath, do not have the water too hot as this can cause the veins to be more visible.
The doctor may suggest that you wear compression stockings. These stockings apply pressure to your legs, which helps move black up your legs and to your heart. These stockings can also help if you have swelling in ankles and/or lower legs.
Talk with your doctor about these treatment options and they can give you much more information.