Spider Veins Specialist

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are small, visible vein clusters that occur just beneath the surface of the skin. They’re usually red, blue, or green.

Spider veins can occur anywhere on your body, but they’re especially common on the legs, thighs, and face. Certain conditions may increase your risk of spider veins, including rosacea, pregnancy, and sun exposure.

How are spider veins diagnosed?

To diagnose spider veins, Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle. 

Most of the time, spider veins are visible to the naked eye. However, if your provider suspects another underlying issue is to blame, they might also order an ultrasound or lab tests.

How are spider veins treated?

Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston treats spider veins with sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy involves your provider injecting small amounts of an FDA-approved solution into your vein with a very small needle. 

Once the solution enters your vein, it causes the vein wall to collapse. Your body absorbs the damaged vein and reroutes blood to healthier veins throughout your body. 

Following sclerotherapy, you’ll wear compression stockings for three days. Stockings encourage healing and promote healthy circulation.

How many sclerotherapy treatments will I need?

The number of sclerotherapy treatments you’ll need depends on the location and size of your spider veins. Most people achieve their desired results following a series of 3-5 treatments spaced several weeks apart. 

To maintain your results, Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston recommends follow-up treatment at least once each year.

Is sclerotherapy for spider veins safe?

Sclerotherapy for spider veins is safe and usually well-tolerated. The needles are very small and the solution presents no harmful side effects. 

Following treatment, it’s normal to experience some swelling and mild bruising, but this should subside within a few days. If the bruising interferes with your mobility, feel free to take over-the-counter pain medication.

Is there any way to prevent spider veins?

There’s no way to prevent spider veins entirely, but there are steps you can take to significantly lower your risk. Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston recommends:

• Wearing sunscreen
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying physically active
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Elevating your legs

Don’t let spider veins negatively affect your confidence. Call or book a consultation online at Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston today.