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Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy vs. Visual Sclerotherapy
Both Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy and non-guided are safe and effective in removing varicose veins and spider veins. So what is the difference between them?
It’s distressing to notice a new spider vein on your legs. While it may seem they just appear without warning, spider veins will not disappear on their own. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the appearance of spider veins and prevent new ones from appearing, but removal is the best way to get rid of them entirely.
Although spider veins are considered a primarily cosmetic issue, those thin lines of purple and blue can be uncomfortable physically and emotionally. Similar to varicose veins, spider veins develop when weakened valves in the veins allow blood to pool. The blood then pushes the veins to the surface of the skin.
Aside from their appearance, spider veins are primarily asymptomatic but can sometimes cause itching and throbbing in the legs. Unlike varicose veins, spider veins aren't bulging and twisted and are typically smaller.
Because spider vein therapy is widely considered a cosmetic treatment, your insurance may not cover the procedure. However, your vein care facility can help make removing unsightly spider veins more affordable.
Like varicose veins, spider veins occur from several risk factors. Some people are genetically predisposed to develop varicose and spider veins. Those who carry excess weight put extra pressure on their veins, which can cause spider veins to appear. Women are more prone to developing spider veins because of the hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause.
As a result, exercising, losing weight, and eating a healthy diet may help reduce the symptoms and appearance of spider veins and prevent new ones from forming. Lifestyle changes alone, however, won't cure spider or varicose veins.
Center for Vein Restoration recommends sclerotherapy or laser therapy as cost-effective methods for permanently treating spider veins. If your procedure is medically necessary, insurance will likely cover it.
Typically, an insurance company considers treatment medically necessary when the symptoms caused by vein disease are severe enough to negatively impact a patient's health. If your vein treatment is considered cosmetic, your insurance will most likely not cover it.
Sclerotherapy is the most widely used treatment for spider veins. It involves injecting a safe, saline-based solution into the vein, which sets off a chain reaction, irritating the walls and collapsing them. Over time, the affected spider veins vanish. Because the needle is so tiny, the procedure is virtually painless and requires no anesthesia or downtime.
After treatment, you may see some temporary bruises, and the doctor may ask you to wear compression stockings to promote healing. The procedure takes about an hour, and you can resume normal activities almost immediately. Still, you may need more than one session to eliminate all spider veins.
During laser therapy, a laser is pulsed into the spider veins, generating heat and causing the blood vessels to dissolve and disappear. Laser therapy may cause a slight burning sensation as it is applied. Potential after-effects include some pain and skin discolorations.
The cost of either treatment depends on your geographic location, the exact procedure, and the number of treated veins. Sclerotherapy and laser therapy may require multiple treatments to eliminate the damaged veins. Still, generally, you may need fewer sessions with sclerotherapy.
Spider veins may not be a severe medical condition, but their unsightly appearance may cause self-consciousness and a reluctance to bare one's skin.
While there is no magical way to get rid of spider veins, laser therapy or sclerotherapy can help you effectively achieve healthier veins, confidence, and appearance.
The results of sclerotherapy or laser therapy spider vein removal can vary from patient to patient. Most patients will notice improvements within a few weeks of the treatment. Smaller veins may disappear within 3 to 6 weeks, while more prominent veins might take 3 to 4 months to fade completely.
Multiple treatment sessions may be needed for patients to see optimal results, especially for more extensive spider veins. Following your vascular specialist's care instructions, such as wearing compression stockings, can help speed up the healing process and improve the effectiveness of the treatment.
While spider veins are often considered a cosmetic issue, there are times when it is essential to consult a vascular specialist. If you experience persistent itching, throbbing, or heaviness in your legs, it is advisable to seek professional advice, as these symptoms could indicate underlying vein issues that may require treatment.
An increase in the number or size of spider veins warrants evaluation by a specialist to recommend appropriate treatment options. Discussing preventative measures and early treatment options with a specialist can be beneficial if you have a family history of vein issues, including spider veins, varicose veins, blood clot disorders, or more.
Even for those concerned primarily about the appearance of spider veins, a consultation can provide insights into effective treatments to improve skin appearance and boost confidence.
Spider veins are unlikely to disappear entirely without medical procedures. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and utilizing self-care methods can significantly manage and reduce their appearance. Exercise, weight management, leg elevation, compression stockings, a nutritious diet, and skincare are all effective ways to prevent the development of new spider veins and alleviate symptoms.
For those seeking complete spider vein removal, consulting a vein specialist about treatments like sclerotherapy or laser therapy remains the most effective option.
Spider veins are caused by various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, and even sun exposure. Once spider veins form, they are unlikely to vanish on their own due to structural changes in the veins. However, while complete disappearance without a procedure is rare, there are ways to manage and potentially reduce their appearance.
Specific lifestyle changes can significantly help manage and prevent spider veins. Although these lifestyle changes might not eliminate existing spider veins, they can prevent new ones from forming and reduce the visibility and discomfort associated with them.
Regular physical activity improves blood circulation and strengthens the muscles that support your veins. Walking, swimming, and cycling are gentle on the joints and beneficial for cardiovascular health. Enhanced circulation can help alleviate the pressure on spider veins and stop them from worsening.
Exercise is crucial for vein health, mainly if your job involves extended periods of sitting or standing. Changing your position regularly and taking breaks during the day can prevent blood from pooling in the veins. If your job involves prolonged sitting or standing, include small exercises or stretches throughout the day to improve your circulation and decrease your risk of developing spider veins.
Excess weight puts added pressure on the veins, especially in the legs. Maintaining a healthy weight can decrease this pressure and reduce the risk of developing more spider veins, among other vascular concerns like varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve vascular health and decrease your risk of developing spider veins. Lowering salt intake can minimize water retention and swelling, which can contribute to the formation of spider veins.
Elevating your legs while resting can improve blood flow back to the heart and reduce blood pooling in the veins, helping to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with spider veins. Incorporating leg elevation into your daily routine can improve circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve discomfort associated with various health conditions.
Compression stockings are beneficial for individuals who spend long periods standing or sitting. Compression stockings apply light, consistent pressure to the legs, which helps improve blood flow and reduce blood pooling, which can lead to the formation of spider veins.
Prolonged exposure to the sun can weaken the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, which provide structural support. When these fibers are damaged, the skin and blood vessels lose their elasticity and strength, resulting in the appearance of spider veins. Using sunscreen to protect your skin from sun exposure can prevent the worsening of spider veins, especially on the face and legs.
Opting for loose-fitting attire is a simple yet effective way to promote vein health and reduce the risk of developing spider veins. By allowing for better blood circulation and reducing pressure on veins, loose clothing can help prevent the development of varicose veins.
Loose-fitting enhances comfort and complements other preventive measures. Tight garments, particularly around the waist, legs, and groin, can impede blood flow, leading to increased pressure on veins and the subsequent formation of varicose veins. Loose clothing enables unobstructed blood flow, reducing this pressure and supporting overall vein health.
If left untreated, spider veins can cause several issues over time. Many people are concerned about the cosmetic aspect, as untreated spider veins can become more noticeable, leading to potential self-consciousness about the affected areas.
Untreated spider veins can progress to more prominent varicose veins, which may cause more significant health issues. Over time, untreated spider veins can lead to aching, burning, or throbbing sensations in the legs, especially after standing for long periods. Varicose veins can cause swelling in the legs and ankles due to poor blood flow and increased vascular pressure.
Varicose veins can also lead to skin changes, such as discoloration, dryness, and even ulcers, particularly around the ankles. For some patients, the veins can become more fragile and prone to bleeding, which can be challenging to manage.
The untreated development of spider veins into varicose veins can significantly impact your lifestyle and decrease your quality of life. Untreated vascular issues can cause pain and discomfort, which limits physical activity and decreases overall quality of life. Additionally, the appearance and symptoms of spider veins can lower self-esteem and confidence, affecting social interactions and mental well-being.
Untreated spider veins can escalate into more severe vascular issues. Beyond cosmetic concerns, they can contribute to conditions like superficial blood clots and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). It occurs when the veins struggle to efficiently return blood to the heart, causing blood to pool in the legs, leading to discomfort, swelling, and other troubling symptoms.
Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency include but aren't limited to:
Swelling in the lower legs and ankles is a common symptom of CVI. Swelling is caused by fluid accumulation in the tissues as the veins struggle to return blood to the heart.
Legs may ache, throb, or feel heavy, especially after standing or sitting long. People with CVI often have these symptoms, which worsen after prolonged periods of standing or sitting. Elevating the legs can help relieve this discomfort.
Patients with untreated varicose veins may develop serious skin complications, particularly around the ankles. These can include discoloration, often appearing as a brownish tint, and dryness, itchiness, and skin thickening. Lipodermatosclerosis can develop, making the skin hard and prone to injury. In severe cases, open sores or ulcers may form and slowly heal.
At Center for Vein Restoration, we encourage early intervention to prevent these issues from worsening. Treatment options are available, from simple lifestyle changes to minimally invasive procedures. If you're concerned about the appearance or symptoms of your spider veins, consulting a vascular specialist or dermatologist is recommended. Early detection and treatment of spider veins can significantly improve your overall well-being and confidence.
A vein specialist can tailor a treatment plan to your needs and budget. Early detection and treatment enhance your appearance and prevent potential complications associated with spider veins. Addressing spider veins early can improve your overall vein health, boost your confidence, and enjoy a better quality of life. Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or contact a Center for Vein Restoration near you to learn more about your vein health and spider vein treatment options.
Both Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy and non-guided are safe and effective in removing varicose veins and spider veins. So what is the difference between them?
