Spider Vein Treatment in NYC
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are a less severe form of varicose veins. Spider veins have a slightly different appearance than varicose veins, presenting themselves as thin red, blue, or purple weblike clusters of blood vessels under your skin. Spider veins typically occur in the legs, but may sometimes appear in other areas of your body, such as the face. Spider veins may cover one small region of your skin or they may extend across larger regions of your skin.
What causes spider veins?
Similar to varicose veins, spider veins can occur when valves in your veins are damaged or defected. As a result, blood is unable to flow efficiently and collects in the veins. Causes for spider veins may include:
- Standing for long periods of time
- Sitting for long periods of time
- Being overweight
- Having a history of blood clots
- Hormone changes
- Sun exposure
- Experiencing trauma or injury to the skin
- Having conditions that place pressure on the stomach, such as tumors or constipation
What are the symptoms of spider veins?
The primary symptom of spider veins is the appearance of weblike veins beneath the surface of your skin, mainly in the legs. Additional symptoms may include:
- Cramping or aching in your legs
- Feeling tired or restless
- Burning, throbbing, or tingling sensation in your legs
- A feeling of heaviness in your legs
In some cases, swelling, ulcers, or changes in the color of your skin may occur near the affected areas.
How are spider veins diagnosed?
Diagnosing spider veins typically involves a physical exam from your doctor. To perform a physical exam, your doctor will first ask that you stand upright. Your doctor will then do a quick evaluation and assessment of your legs. Your doctor may also ask if you are experiencing any pain or other symptoms in your legs. To help assess blood flow and to identify any indications of blood clotting, an ultrasound test may be performed.
How are spider veins treated?
Usually, spider veins are not painful and they rarely cause any troubling conditions or problems. However, if you are experiencing pain or are seeking removal of your spider veins, treatment options are available. Treatment options may include:
- Sclerotherapy
- Laser surgery
Speak with your doctor to find out more about which treatment options may be right for you.
Our heart and vein doctors at Heart Vein NYC have over 20 years of experience providing the New York City area with comprehensive,
