Spider veins are smaller versions of varicose veins. Normally, the veins are able to keep blood pumping through them using a series of valves. If the valves don't work properly, blood can accumulate in the vein, resulting in the veins becoming swollen, causing varicose and spider veins. These veins can be painful but generally are more of a cosmetic problem than a health issue. Although spider veins can be treated with laser therapy, there are other treatment options available.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is one of the most commonly used treatments for the removal of spider veins, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. This procedure involves injecting the spider veins with a special chemical, which causes irritation and inflammation. The irritation causes the spider veins to fill with scar tissue, a process known as sclerosis. The scarring-over of the veins reduces them in appearance, and then the body gradually breaks them down. Often, a concentrated saline solution is used as the sclerosing agent, though other chemical preparations are also available. Multiple treatments may be necessary to get rid of the veins entirely. The injections can cause some stinging, but otherwise have few side effects.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings can also be used to minimize the appearance of spider veins and to prevent them from expanding. Compression stockings, the National Women's Health Information Center reports, put pressure on the veins, which helps keep them from swelling. Compression stockings typically come in three different varieties. The mildest form are known as support pantyhose and provide pressure all throughout the legs. More powerful compression stockings can be purchased in medical supply stores or in drugstores; these stockings apply pressure at a gradient, which means that the stocking provide more pressure in some areas, which increases their effectiveness. Finally, prescription-strength compression stockings, fitted by a trained professional, can be used for the maximum amount of pressure.
Risks
With any type of treatment for spider veins, there is always the risk that the spider veins will come back, the American Academy of Dermatology explains. Compression stockings may help minimize the appearance of these spider veins, but are not able to completely remove them. Sclerotherapy, while providing a more permanent solution, does have some potential side effects, such as bruising of the treated area and the appearance of small lines or bumps near the injection site. The treated blood vessels can also become painful as a result of the treatment.
