The circulatory system moves blood throughout the body, and veins play a crucial role in that process. Yet still, you likely have some visible veins you'd like to eliminate. For some people, the appearance of veins on their skin can be a source of anxiety and insecurity. There are several reasons why people have visible veins, but the good news is that there are also several ways to get rid of them. The team at Edgebrook Dermatology in Rockford can help treat your veins.
What Causes Spider and Varicose Veins?
Spider veins and varicose veins develop from damaged valves that prevent blood from flowing normally. Many other things can damage your valves, but your risk of varicose veins and spider veins is higher if you have a family history of the issue. One of the most common causes is genetics. If your close relatives have visible veins, that means you are more likely to develop them yourself. Other risk factors include hormones, age, pregnancy, lifestyle, and weight.
If you are concerned about spider or varicose veins, talk to our dermatologist. She can help you identify the cause and find the best treatment option for you.
Are Visible Veins a Health Concern?
Visible veins can be a cause for concern for many people. While they may not be harmful to your health, they can be a sign of underlying medical conditions. Watch out for symptoms such as leg swelling, muscle cramps, itching, and tingling when you notice darker or bulging veins.
If you have visible veins and are concerned about the health implications, it is essential to talk to your doctor. They can perform a physical examination and order tests to rule out any underlying conditions.
In most cases, visible veins are harmless and do not require treatment. However, if they are causing you pain or discomfort, or you simply dislike the way they look, several therapies can help. These include vein surgery, laser therapy, and sclerotherapy. If you are concerned about the appearance of visible veins, talk to our team to find out what treatment options are available.
YAG Laser Treatment for Visible Veins
This laser targets broken capillaries that are directly at the surface of the skin, such as cherry angiomas and spider veins. These are most commonly the "red" veins. We find these anywhere on the body, but especially our more sun-exposed areas, such as the face, chest, and arms. This laser "zaps" or constricts broken capillaries with a heat frequency. Full resolution of the veins can take anywhere between 2 and 6 total treatment sessions, depending on the severity and stubbornness of the vein. These treatments are fast, typically painless (a quick rubber-band snapping sensation as the laser pulsates), and require little to no downtime. Because we're using a heat a the surface of the skin, most patients do not have to worry about healing from any cuts, wounds, blistered, cauterized or damaged skin tissue! Expect a little redness and soreness following treatment and avoid sun exposure.
Sclerotherapy for Spider and Varicose Veins
Sclerotherapy is the method of vein removal that involves an injection of a solution to dissolve veins and redirect blood flow. This is most commonly used on the lower body, such as the legs, ankles, and feet. Sclerotherapy is used for the more "purple" veins that typically sit directly underneath the skin. Our office can only focus on spider veins that are mild enough for laser therapy. If your veins are severe enough to require sclerotherapy or surgical intervention, we advise patients seek attention from the Northern Illinois Vein Clinic in Rockford.
Talk to Our Dermatologist About Treating Visible Veins
If you're considering treatment for visible veins in Rockford, contact our office at (815) 229-9333 to schedule a consultation. We can help you understand your options and choose the best treatment for you.