Spider veins are the thin, web-like veins that are visible beneath the surface of your skin, most commonly on the legs or face. They may be caused by hereditary factors, but lifestyle choices can increase your risk.

If you’ve noticed these pesky veins and want to get rid of them, a spider vein doctor in Bel Air, Maryland has options to restore smooth, vein-free skin!

How Are Spider Veins Diagnosed?

Spider veins occur when one-way valves inside your veins weaken and no longer function properly, which can lead to blood flowing backward and subsequently pooling in the area. This causes the vein to swell and become visible beneath the skin.

During your visit with a spider vein doctor, they’ll examine the affected areas and ask about your family history and symptoms. They’ll also ask about your lifestyle to find out about anything that could be contributing to the issue.

In some cases, an ultrasound or other diagnostic testing may be performed to assess the blood flow in the veins.

3 Treatment Options for Spider Veins

Once your condition is diagnosed, your spider vein doctor in Bel Air, Maryland may recommend one of the following treatment options:

• Sclerotherapy: This involves a solution being injected directly into the affected veins, causing it to scar and collapse. Over time, the treated vein fades away as blood is rerouted to healthier veins. Sclerotherapy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure with little to no downtime.
• Laser therapy: Another effective option is laser treatment, which uses targeted laser energy to heat and destroy the spider veins. This option is ideal for smaller veins or areas like the face, where injections might not be as desirable. Like sclerotherapy, laser therapy requires minimal recovery time and offers great results.
• Stab phlebectomy: While not as common as the other two treatments, stab phlebectomy is sometimes used for more extensive cases of spider veins. During the procedure tiny incisions are made for the manual removal of veins. Though it’s more invasive than sclerotherapy or laser therapy, it may be the best option for larger, more stubborn spider veins.

Simple Ways to Improve Spider Vein Symptoms at Home

While professional treatments are highly effective at eliminating spider veins, there are some simple things you can do at home to prevent them from worsening:

• Take medications to decrease swelling.
• Wear compression stockings to improve blood flow.
• Avoid long periods of standing or sitting.
• Eat a nutritious diet to support vein health.
• Lose weight if you are overweight or obese to reduce pressure on your legs.
• Get regular exercise to promote healthy circulation.

These habits can reduce discomfort and help prevent new spider veins from forming.

When to Seek Immediate Care From a Spider Vein Doctor in Bel Air, Maryland

While spider veins are generally not dangerous, there are warning signs that indicate you should seek emergency care immediately by calling 911 or visiting the ER.

It is urgent if the area around your spider veins becomes warm to the touch, sensitive, and / or grows significantly larger. These signs can indicate a much more serious condition that could be life threatening, such as a blood clot or infection. These require prompt treatment to avoid complications.

The Vein Center of Maryland Wants to Be Your Go-To for Venous Care!

Make spider veins an issue of the past and restore the smooth, clear skin that allows you to wear shorts or a swimsuit with confidence!

Call our staff today at 443-300-7571 to schedule your complimentary consultation with one of our specialists. We have six locations in and around Baltimore, so expert care is never far!