Spider Veins Are NOT Part of the Costume
As fun as it can be to get dressed up for Halloween, the spider costume does not include spider veins! Spider veins appear, mainly on the legs, as people age. Men and women are both affected, but around 70% of women are affected as compared to 40% of men. The discrepancy is due to pregnancy and childbearing. Additionally, women are more likely to seek help from a dermatologist to improve their appearance. Spider veins are slightly different from Varicose veins, but cause discoloration visible on the skin. Spider veins spread across the skin from a center spot, which is why they are called spider veins, as they resemble the pattern of a spider web. However, both can make a person feel uncomfortable showing their skin, which can take an emotional toll over time.
Spider and Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are superficial veins that become discolored and may appear twisted and bulge under the skin. In some severe cases, these can appear rope-like and create insecurity about wearing anything that exposes them, which is why treating them is essential if it is a concern. Some suffer from physical pain due to these veins, and when legs ache, swell, or throb, it may become itchy and unbearable. If a vein bursts, it can cause open sores that may require medical attention. There is no need for anyone to suffer through these symptoms. A qualified dermatologist can help treat Varicose veins.
Spider veins spread out in a similar pattern to a spider web, hence the name. However, spider veins are rarely painful and don’t often have increased health risks like varicose veins. A skilled dermatologist would be able to help identify the type of veins, determine their causes, and provide treatment for relief!
Breaking Down the Facts
Visible leg veins are caused by valves that are damaged and not pumping effectively against gravity. Weak valves, which occur naturally with age, force blood to pool, stress the vein, and cause it to react in various ways. The risk of both depends on many factors, including age, genetics, gender, and lifestyle. Inactivity is a significant cause of visible leg veins and inflammation of the condition.
Since inactivity is a known cause of this condition, one way to help prevent Varicose and spider veins is to elevate when planning to sit for long periods of time. The American Heart Association recommends regular activity in between being still, sitting, or standing, and the benefits of this go well beyond keeping visible leg veins at bay! Although a shockingly hot jacuzzi may feel good, soaking too long in hot water, even baths, can intensify this condition. Travelers have started to see the benefits of wearing compression socks, especially during flights. These socks are designed to improve circulation in the legs, and many have shown promising relief to those suffering from this skin condition.
Treating Spider Veins
Anyone who feels self-conscious about the appearance of spider veins in their legs, or is experiencing discomfort from Varicose veins, should seek the professional guidance of a licensed dermatologist with experience treating these conditions. Multiple treatment options can be done in-office using discretion and care. Although compression stockings may be effective in preventing them from appearing, once they are visible, they often require treatment to disappear. Sclerotherapy is the most common way to treat visible veins. The process involves carefully injecting a chemical into the vein, causing it to swell and clot. This seals it off, and the body absorbs the clot. This approach can take 1-2 months and require multiple treatments, but there is no downtime for the client, and activity is encouraged after treatments to prevent the formation of blood clots.
Laser treatments are another in-office treatment that a licensed dermatologist can administer. Light is directed into the vein, and the treatment is non-invasive. As light enters the affected vein, it heats the blood, causing it to clot. The body’s natural response is to absorb the clot. Some spider veins may disappear with a single treatment, while larger ones may take several months to disappear with multiple treatments.
Cosmetic and Medical Concerns
Whether suffering from Spider or Varicose veins, both can be treated regardless of whether your concerns are cosmetic or medical. If visible veins are painful, they should be treated as soon as possible. Due to the related medical risks connected to Varicose veins, treatments may be covered by insurance. Buckhead Dermatology, located in Atlanta, can help explore insurance coverage of treatments, ensuring anyone who wants relief has access to it! Don’t let Spider veins be the highlight of your costume this Halloween!
If you live or work in the Atlanta area, Buckhead Dermatology can help – call today for an appointment with Dr. Sherrie Straughn. She works with clients to help them love their skin. She works with integrity and honesty and is dedicated to wellness through dermatology.