Common Myths About Spider Vein Treatments

Thinking of doing something about those unsightly blue and red spider veins spoiling the look of your latest little black dress and heels? Before you jump in without doing any homework, let us provide you with some information and dispel three common myths about spider vein treatments.

Myth #1: Just Expect to Get Spider Veins as You Get Older

Most women are pretty tired of hearing how age cramps their style and affects their looks. In fact, today most women make their own decisions about how to remain healthy and look younger, so getting older does not mean you must live with spider veins. There are multiple treatments available to eliminate those little blue imperfections.

The truth is that spider veins are more about heredity than they are about getting older. So, apparently we can put the blame on mom and grandma. If you are destined to have spider veins, you’ll likely see them early in life because vein disease normally begins as early our 20s and 30s. Without any treatment, you can expect to have varicose veins and spider veins later in life.

Besides the curse of heredity, being overweight, having an earlier trauma to your legs, pregnancy, and living a less than active lifestyle all contribute to and create a risk for developing vein issues.

Myth #2: Only Women Get Spider Veins

Although commonly portrayed as a “women-only” issue, this is also not true. By the time men reach the age of 60, almost 45% will develop vein diseases causing spider veins and varicose veins. Again, family history is the culprit for both men and women.

Additional risk factors are the same for both men and women. If you sit at a desk for work, if you had lengthy bed rest after surgery, are someone whose occupation requires standing up for long periods of time, or are someone who travels and drives long hours or flies long distances, you may be at risk to develop venous disease. In addition, if you take medications that affect your circulation, this can contribute to spider and varicose veins.

Myth #3: Treating Spider Veins Requires Serious Surgical Intervention

This myth is really off track and outdated. There have been significant advances in treating spider veins and varicose veins. The most simple treatment for spider veins is wearing gradient compression hose. These can be found OTC or by prescription from Dr. Handley.

Another common treatment for spider veins is known as Sclerotherapy. A chemical is injected into the vein wall sealing off the vein causing it to fade within weeks. This procedure can be performed in the office without anesthesia, and you can return to normal activities immediately. Sometimes a second injection is needed.

Surface Laser treatments are another way to remove spider veins. This option uses laser light directed through the skin to the vein causing it to fade.

Decide which treatment works for you, and break out the LBD and spike heels, ladies.

Contact Dr. Robert Handley of the Flower Mound Vein Center today and discover which treatment option for spider veins is best for you!