While laser removal may seem odd, this is actually extremely important for people suffering from varicose veins, or spider veins. Varicose veins can cause serious discomfort and lead to blood clots or open sores on your legs but minimally-invasive treatment can relieve this issues, along with other symptoms like pain and fatigue, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Why do people get visible veins?
Varicose veins are damaged veins because of the weakening one-way valves inside the veins. Usually valves push blood back to the body's heart but weak valves have blood flowing backward, which accumulates in the vein. That puts pressure on the vein, eventually causing vein wall weakening and a bulge.
You have a higher risk of developing these veins if they run in your family. Pregnant women are also at risk of getting varicose veins and age is definitely a factor. Other reasons include, oddly enough, sunlight, hormonal changes, or an injury.
How do dermatologists treat varicose veins?
Laser treatment involves your Glendora, CA, dermatologist directs the laser light at the vein. Small spider veins may disappear after treatment, almost immediately, but larger spider veins darken first then take 1- 3 months before disappearing.
After each treatment, patients wear compression stockings, will need to prevent any sort of physical contact with the treated area and avoid the sun for 3 to 4 weeks.
You may need at least three more laser treatment for full recovery and, not to worry, most patients go about their normal activities the next day.
Other treatments include:
- Self-care: Exercise, elevating legs and avoiding long baths can improve your circulation.
- Compression stockings: These stockings apply pressure to move blood toward your heart.
- Sclerotherapy: Your dermatologist injects a chemical into the varicose vein which causes the walls of the vein to stick together and prevents blood flow.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding varicose veins and laser removal, contact Dr. Keshea Stevenson at her Glendora, CA, office today!