Spider Veins

Posted: October 15, 2018

Our blood does so much for us. It brings our cells oxygen and helps keep our skin beautiful and glowing. As the pathway for blood, our veins are important in keeping our bodies working as they should. Our veins are easy to ignore when they’re working properly. It’s when our veins start acting up that we take notice. Keep reading to learn more about spider veins and how we can help treat them.

Spider Veins vs. Varicose Veins

Many people confuse spider veins with varicose veins, but they are different in how they look. Both issues are fairly common, and come along with age in many people. Spider veins are those purplish or bluish veins that are visible underneath the skin, twisting and turning like little streams or rivers on legs or other parts of the body.

Varicose veins are larger veins that are raised above the surface level of the skin. You may be able to feel them or press them gently back into the skin. These are often not colored, and look just like shadowy shapes on the skin if you catch them in the right light.

What causes them?

There are many factors that can contribute to spider veins and varicose veins including:

• Obesity
• Birth Control Pills
• Blood clots and/or a history of blood clots
• Standing for long periods of time (often due to work)
• Heredity
• Hormonal fluctuations due to pregnancy or menopause
• Conditions that cause increased pressure in the abdomen, such as tumors

How can I treat them?

You can treat spider veins or varicose veins with compression socks, though these are only useful when worn. When the compression socks come off, your veins go back as they were.  If your spider veins cause you pain or aching, then we can help find a more permanent solution.

For example, we can utilize lasers and radio frequencies to help treat spider veins. There are two minimally invasive options, which are selected depending on your specific condition and your desired results. We can use sclerotherapy and radiosurgery, depending on what we discuss in your consultation and what your concerns are.

If you’re ready to say goodbye to those painful, unsightly spider veins, call us today at (949) 721-6000 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bonakdar.