Spider Veins Specialist

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are engorged, twisted-looking veins that you can see on your skin. They most commonly appear on your legs because of gravity, but they can appear in other places on your body, too. They’re typically blue or purple in color and bulge above your skin’s surface. For some people, they cause aching and discomfort. However, this isn’t always the case.

A more mild form of varicose vein is called a spider vein. Spider veins lay flat on the surface of your skin, are much smaller, and can be different colors. Spider veins and varicose veins are usually just a cosmetic concern.

What causes varicose veins?

The underlying cause of your varicose veins is weak or damaged valves inside your blood vessels. Your veins work against gravity to bring blood back up to your heart with a series of valves that open and close. When these valves don’t work properly, some of your blood falls back down and gathers in your veins. This causes your veins to expand and twist.

There are a few factors that put you at a higher risk of getting varicose veins. You’re more likely to get them if you are:

• Getting old
• A woman
• Take hormones (e.g. birth control)
• Pregnant
• Genetically prone
• Obese

Working in a job with little movement throughout the day can also put you at a higher risk of getting varicose veins. If you stand or sit for long periods of time, your circulation is impacted.

How are varicose veins treated?

There are many home remedies and strategies you can employ to prevent new varicose veins from forming and reduce the ones you already have. You should exercise regularly, restrict your salt intake, and elevate your legs while relaxing. 

At Chico Dermatology, O. Jay offers several treatments for severe and unsightly varicose veins. They include:

Sclerotherapy

During sclerotherapy, O. Jay injects your most problematic varicose veins with a solution that closes them. You’ll see a difference immediately and more improvement over time.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy helps reduce smaller varicose veins by shooting light into your vein. The treatment causes scar tissue to form and constrict the vein until it disappears from view.

Varicose veins aren’t attractive and can have a big impact on your body image. If you want to reduce your varicose veins for cosmetic reasons, call Chico Dermatology or book an appointment online today.