What causes ‘Spider Veins’?

Telangiectasias or sunburst varicosities, the medical terms for spider veins, are blood vessels that have become enlarged due to either a weakness in the valves that control the blood flow or the wall in the vein itself. They can be the result of a number of causes, including sun and wind damage, exposure to greatly varying temperatures, genetic predisposition, oral contraceptives or ageing. And women are not alone. Many men also develop as they get older, particularly those who have spent many years outdoors in wind and sun.

Spider veins, while being part of the larger vascular system, are not essential to it, and so they do not pose any major health risk. However, some people may experience uncomfortable symptoms, such as night cramps, swelling or discomfort in the area. Others will not have any discomfort at all. As the cluster of veins sits just under the skin, and is a very visible blotch of red, purple or blue, many people choose to have them treated.

Available Treatments

There are two main types of treatments available for the removal of spider veins: Sclerotherapy and Laser or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. There are also a myriad of natural ways that can help to prevent the onset of spider veins, or prevent more from developing.

Laser Therapy and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology

The treatment of spider veins using either lasers or IPL is a relatively new, but very successful way to treat spider veins. For instance, a whole face treatment will usually take only 20-30 minutes, and you can resume your normal activities right away. It is non-invasive, and there is very little discomfort during the procedure.

Both treatments work by sending pulse of light to the vein, which collapses it. The body eventually reabsorbs the collapsed vein.

Sclerotherpy

Sclerotherapy is a procedure that injects a sclerosing agent into the vein. The procedure only takes around 15-40 minutes, but a second or third treatment may be needed. Results will be noticeable after one month, and even more so after the 2nd or 3rd treatment. A compression bandage must also be worn for some time after the treatment.

Other alternatives

Neither laser therapy nor Sclerotherapy will prevent other spider veins from developing. Good vascular health is the most important way to slow or prevent further development of spider veins. Exercise that concentrates on strengthening the legs is important for valve health. The blood has a long way to travel back from the heart, and regular calf exercise can improve the flow of blood in the legs. Yoga is also a great way to improve blood flow, as some of the poses that raise the legs in the air are particularly effective. Also, natural remedies such as Horse Chestnut and Pulsatilla help to maintain a strong vascular system.

For more information, try the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (), the Australian Traditional Medicine Society () or the Australian Medical Laser Association ().