Having spider or varicose veins can affect more than the appearance. These veins can cause discomfort and some varicose veins can put you at risk for a complication like a blood clot. Minimally invasive treatments can get rid of or fade leg veins and also diminish symptoms like pain and fatigue and prevent complications.
Spider veins
Telangiectasias (commonly known as “spider veins”) are dilated or broken blood vessels located near the surface of the skin or mucous membranes. They often appear as fine pink or red lines, which temporarily whiten when pressed and usually occur in a group that look like a spider’s web or the branches of a tree. Individuals who are otherwise healthy can develop this condition, and it is sometimes associated with varicose veins.
Causes for visible leg veins
Veins are responsible for carrying blood back to our heart and contain one-way valves for blood to travel in only one direction. When the valves weaken, some blood flows backwards and accumulates in the veins. The extra blood in veins causes the vein walls to weaken and bulge out over time, making them more visible.
Factors that can increase the chances of developing spider veins include hormones, increased age, pregnancy and weight gain. It has also been observed that prolonged periods of standing can lead to venous issues and the development of webbed veins.
Treatment Options
There are two options for spider vein treatment: sclerotherapy and laser. They can be employed independently or in combination.
What to expect from a Doctor’s visit
The doctor will perform a history and physical examination and also review your medications and effects of associated health conditions. Because symptoms that affect your skin can function as a “window” to your internal health, the doctor will determine the cause of the telangiectasia and start treatments or refer you to a rheumatologist if a connective tissue disease is suspected.
Expected Duration of Results
Regardless of treatment, an individual should anticipate the development of new spider veins over time, just as he/she would if the spider veins had not been treated. Spider vein therapy treats current spider veins but does not prevent new ones.
Before and After Photos
In compliance with MOH guidelines in Singapore, we are not allowed to post before-and-after images on our website and social media platforms. However, we are more than willing to share such images for your perusal during your in-clinic consultation with us.