Spider veins are tiny swollen and twisted veins that usually appear on the lower part of legs and rarely, on the face. The condition is more common among women than men.
Some of the common causes that contribute to the development of spider veins include hormonal shifts, pregnancy and weight fluctuation.
Spider veins are usually harmless. However, sometimes, they may cause aching, burning or pain.
Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment to treat varicose and spider veins. The procedure involves injecting an irritating solution into the affected vein. It causes the veins to scar and resultantly the blood is rerouted through properly functioning veins.
Following sclerotherapy, the treated veins fade away within some weeks. Usually, the results from the treatment are fully apparent in a month.
If there are more than one varicose veins, several treatments may be required to get rid of them fully.
Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure do not have any permanent side effects. Some temporary side effects that may occur include bruising and small skin sores around the treated area.
During the healing process, inactivity can lead to the formation of blood clots in the leg. Thus the patients are advised to remain active after the treatment.
Patients also need to avoid exposing the treated area to sunlight because it can darken the skin in the form of spots and lines.