5 Essential Facts About Leg Spider Veins and Microsclerotherapy
Leg Thread Veins
Also called thread veins or broken veins, these are very common. Almost 50% of adults are affected and therefore many people are interested to know how to get rid of these unsightly blemishes. People with thread veins fall into one of two categories, and in the majority of cases there is a problem with the valves of the superficial veins – either in the large saphenous vein, or else in the smaller reticular or feeder veins. This is why it is very important to get a duplex ultrasound scan before deciding how to treat spider veins. A duplex scan will identify which veins have faulty valves and how best this can be put right. For the remainder of those with thread veins, there may be aggravating factors but the cause is not known. These leg thread veins are said to be idiopathic. A duplex ultrasound scan is needed to make sure that people with leg spider veins are classified correctly so they get the correct treatment.
Those with vein reflux should have this treated first. This may mean endo-venous laser for the unhealthy veins. Typically, this is performed under a local anaesthetic as a walk in walk out procedure. Endo-venous laser has replaced surgical stripping as it is much less invasive and gives much better results with no scarring. Once the larger unhealthy veins have been dealt with, then the smaller feeder veins and thread veins can be injected – a treatment called microsclerotherapy.
Five Essential Facts:
What are they? Leg spider veins are unsightly vessels in the skin up to 1 mm in size. Also known as thread veins or broken veins, the medical term for these veins is telangiectasia.
What do they look like? Spider veins have a typical appearance and most people instantly recognise them. They can occur anywhere on the leg but they are frequently found on the outer thigh, inner calf and around the ankle.
What causes them? In my practice, 90% of people requesting advice or treatment are women. Young women with no symptoms usually have no underlying issues with the veins underneath the skin and in this situation, the spider veins are said to be “idiopathic”. Women who have symptoms such as leg throbbing, swelling or leg discomfort during menstrual cycles, may have underlying vein problems or even varicose veins. In this situation, the spider veins are said to be “secondary”.
When are spider veins a problem? For most people, it is the unsightly appearance of the spider veins that causes embarrassment, poor self-esteem and lack of confidence. This is often the motivation for seeking help. For others, symptoms such as leg ache, throbbing and swelling may cause concern. Spider veins around the ankle may indicate a major problem with the function of veins below the skin and these spider veins should always be taken seriously. These veins are called “Corona Phlebectatica” also known as ankle flare.
How can Spider Veins be treated? People with no symptoms, no ankle flare or varicose veins can be treated by Micro-injections (Microsclerotherapy). Under the advice of a healthcare professional, and in the absence of other health conditions such as diabetes or artery disease, those with secondary spider veins can consider wearing good quality medical-grade compression socks or stockings, at least in the short term. For a longer-lasting solution, a vein scan and the advice of a vein specialist should be sought.
WATCH THE VIDEO
Microsclerotherapy is regarded by experts as the most effective treatment for Leg Spider Veins
Watch Dr Gajraj discuss 5 Essential Facts About Microsclerotherapy
Free Guide: How to Inject Leg Spider Veins
Precise, accurate injection technique is fundamental to the success of Microsclerotherapy and it is essential for minimising complications and side-effects.
This Free Guide Gives You the Strategies You Need. Click here to download.
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