When the scorching sun turns up the heat, the struggle of choosing an outfit to cover up your veiny legs reaches a whole new level of frustration. You yearn to flaunt shorts and skirts like your effortlessly stylish friends. But the fear of unveiling your varicose veins becomes a real poolside nightmare.

 

Having varicose veins probably means you have mixed feelings about summer. Because as the temperature rises, so does the anxiety of baring your legs. Luckily, there are plenty of stylish clothing options to make you feel more confident about creating a warm weather wardrobe that works around your varicose veins.

 

Maxi Dress

 

When you wear a maxi dress, the last thing anyone will be thinking about is your varicose veins. They’ll be too busy asking you where you got such a fun, sophisticated frock! Maxi dresses come in all kinds of lightweight fabrics. And the hemlines are low and flowy, helping you keep cool during the summer.

 

J Crew                                             Free People                                               Gap  

 

Whether conquering the office, making waves at a pool party, or channeling beachy vibes over a swimsuit, the slightly dressy maxi look has got you covered – literally and figuratively! They come in a myriad of styles and patterns suitable for day or night. Try a printed cotton maxi paired with flip flops and a denim jacket for the perfect casual day look. Or a solid-colored maxi in a flowy fabric with heels for a night out on the town.

 

Leggings

 

If you’re not ready to rock shorts again, some light-colored leggings may be your best bet. They’re perfect for pairing under summer dresses. And they’re a reliable companion on days when you’re staying inside. Plus they can easily transform into the perfect gym attire, ensuring seamless style from lounging to lunging.

Leggings to hide varicose veinsNordstrom                                       Amazon                                                Target

 

Bad news for those of us who love a classic pair of fitted black leggings. This dark hue isn’t the most ideal for summertime wear. Black absorbs heat easily, which will only make your veins feel worse. And if your leggings are too tight, they may put unwanted pressure on your veins. So embrace thinner fabrics and playful pastel hues, shielding your veins from the scorching sun’s wrath.

 

Long Skirts

 

Floor-length skirts are a popular choice for a reason: they exude femininity, boast fashion-forward appeal, and effortlessly complement a variety of pieces within your existing wardrobe. Embrace a bohemian vibe by opting for a printed maxi, paired harmoniously with sandals. Or achieve a stylishly refined look with a solid-colored skirt alongside leather booties.

 

     ASOS                                                   Walmart                                            JC Penney

 

When you step into the enchanting realm of floor-length skirts, a plethora of flowy and lightweight options awaits, ensuring your utmost comfort during scorching days. These versatile beauties pave the way for seamless mixing and matching, allowing you to curate an ensemble for any occasion or season.

 

Wide-legged Pants

 

If dresses and skirts don’t quite tickle your fashion fancy, fear not! Wide-legged pants can inject sophistication into any ensemble. They add a touch of class when paired with a t-shirt or casual blouse. And when the occasion demands some extra pizzazz, you can dress them up with a sparkly halter top and heels.

 

   Ann Taylor                                                     Bloomingdales                                       Macy’s

 

Discover the wonders of wide-legged pants crafted from featherlight fabrics like cotton, linen, hemp, or lyocell. These gems not only exude an air of sophistication. They also possess the ability to make you appear as polished as a pair of slacks or jeans, minus the burden of extra weight. And when the crisp breeze of fall rolls in, these versatile beauties can be artfully layered to keep you snug and stylish.

 

Jumpsuits

 

Jumpsuits are the ideal summer essential for retro fashion enthusiasts. Discover the exquisite balance between maxi dresses and trousers, enabling unparalleled leg mobility infused with a touch of refined sophistication.

 

Jumpsuits to hide varicose veinsAnthropologie                              Banana Republic                                           H&M

 

Though jumpsuits keep your legs out of sight, you have the option to choose a torso that’s less covered up. Whether you go for short sleeves, spaghetti straps, a daring low back, or a playful cutout, rest assured, you’ll look amazing. Balancing modesty below the waist while exuding a cheeky and free-spirited vibe above, the world is your fashion playground!

 

Best Colors and Fabrics for Summer

 

Warmer temperatures cause your veins to widen, allowing more blood to flow to the surface of the skin. Unfortunately, this can be less than ideal for individuals suffering from varicose veins. To combat this, opt for lightweight fabrics that offer ample breathability, providing comfort from the heat without revealing your legs entirely.

 

When it comes to selecting your summer wardrobe, both color and fabric type hold significant importance. Dark colors and heavy fabrics such as denim, flannel, or wool are bound to leave you feeling hot and uncomfortable within mere minutes of stepping outside. Light colors like white, soft pinks, and blues help deflect the sun’s scorching rays. Additionally, light and breathable materials like cotton, silk, and jersey ensure optimal ventilation and freedom of movement.

 

Wear Your Favorite Shorts Again!

 

All of these leg-concealing fashions are great for covering your varicose veins in high temperatures. But nothing beats wearing shorts in the peak of summer. So if it’s your mission to feel confident about showing your legs again, it’s time to take action and finally get the treatment you need.

 

Talk to a vein specialist about your options for removing those unwanted varicose veins and soon! The quicker it’s done, the more time you have to recover and get back to enjoying those carefree summer days.

Filed under: Varicose VeinsTagged with: , , , ,

Have you found yourself engrossed in the various venous afflictions that can disrupt life’s equilibrium? If so, the term Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) has likely emerged on your enlightening journey. The combination of “deep” and “vein” might conjure up images of excruciating pain. But before you start losing sleep over the thought of this condition, let’s take a moment to put things into perspective.

 

While DVT can unleash some pretty severe side effects, let’s not jump to conclusions. By diving deeper into the realm of Deep Vein Thrombosis and embracing preventative measures, you can boldly reduce the odds of developing this condition.

 

Unraveling the Enigma: Decoding Deep Vein Thrombosis

 

Picture this: blood clots throwing a wild party right within your deep veins. Yes, when these unruly clots decide to form, they go all out, obstructing and even blocking blood flow.

 

Why do blood clots think it’s fun to block up your deep veins? Because of Virchow’s triad, aka the 3 primary causes for Deep Vein Thrombosis:

 

  1. Stasis of blood flow: When you’re immobile for long periods, you reduce blood circulation. This can happen when you’re injured and can’t walk around as much. Or when you’re a jetsetter who spends a lot of time on lengthy flights.
  2. Endothelial injury: “Endothelial”  is a type of cell layer. It lines your blood vessels and forms a barrier between the bloodstream and the tissues that surround it. When endothelial cells are damaged, which can be caused by inflammation, surgery, or trauma, blood clots may form.
  3. Hypercoagulability: This is when your body turns into an overzealous blood clotting factory. Hypercoagulability can be inherited or caused by pregnancy, hormone therapy, smoking, cancer, and certain medications or autoimmune disorders.

 

Deep Vein Thrombosis: What To Look Out For

 

Deep Vein Thrombosis can consist of persistent leg pain, cramps, and swelling of your feet, ankles, and calves. It can also cause skin discoloration and makes your legs feel unusually heavy.

 

DVT can make veins more visible and can even travel to your lungs to cause some toilsome trouble. Here are some other health risks of DVT to be aware of

 

Pulmonary Embolism

 

Pulmonary embolisms happen when blood clots travel into your lungs and block pulmonary arteries. When this occurs, blood flow is blocked, damaging lung tissue and impairing oxygen production.

You may be experiencing a pulmonary embolism if you have the following symptoms:

 

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Cough accompanied by blood-streaked mucus
  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting or unconsciousness
  • Sweating

 

Though pulmonary embolism is the most serious symptom of Deep Vein Thrombosis, it’s also the rarest. Nonetheless, if you spot signs of a pulmonary embolism, get to a doctor right away to stop blot clots from persisting.

 

Post-thrombotic Syndrome

 

When inflammation and blood flow obstruction join forces, this mischievous duo puts pressure on your veins and forms those pesky blood clots that DVT is notorious for.

 

Post-thrombotic syndrome can damage your vein walls and valves, inducing pain, swelling, and several long-term complications. This includes venous insufficiency, venous hypertension, dark pigmentation, and skin ulcers.

 

Stroke, Heart Attack, or (Even) Death

 

Unfortunately, any of these outcomes can be a result of DVT, which is why it should be paid special attention. If a blot clot from your deep veins breaks free, it can travel to your vital organs. If it reaches your brain, it can block blood and lead to a stroke. If the blood clot travels to your heart, the blockage caused can result in a heart attack.

 

While the chances of DVT causing stroke, heart attack, or death are low (phew!), it does up the risk factor for these side effects. That’s why treating DVT should be a major priority. Here are some preventive measures to keep DVT from adding unwarranted turmoil to your life.

 

New Advances in DVT Treatment: What You Need to Know

 

Exploring modern treatment options for DVT can be fascinating. Nowadays, there’s a range of convenient methods to aid in the healing process. Here’s a short and sweet guide to modern DVT treatments:

 

  • Apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran: These medication maestros have quite the reputation as top-notch oral anticoagulants. Don’t be intimidated by their tongue-twisting names; they’re experts at keeping those blood clots in check. No constant monitoring or dose fussing is required! Plus, they play nice with other drugs and food, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected health complications.
  • Catheter-directed thrombolysis: This nifty procedure involves sneaking a catheter into the trouble zone of your DVT. Catheter-directed thrombolysis goes straight to the source, breaking down clots and restoring the harmonious flow of blood. Talk about a minimally invasive rescue mission! With symptoms alleviated and post-thrombotic syndrome and pulmonary embolisms kept at bay, catheter-directed thrombolysis is here to save the day.
  • Genetic testing: Sometimes DNA can be a bit mischievous. It might sprinkle factor V Leiden mutations, prothrombin gene mutations, or deficiencies in Protein C, Protein S, and antithrombin into your genetic mix, upping the odds of DVT. But fear not! The clever doctors have a secret weapon: genetic testing. They can decode your genetic blueprint and uncover these sneaky inheritances. Armed with this knowledge, they can unleash a legion of preventative measures for DVT.

 

Simple Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Your Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis

 

Before you dive into a sea of worry about Deep Vein Thrombosis, take a moment to embrace the rarity of this condition. And fear not, for you hold the power to reduce its chances!

 

Add daily movement to keep your blood circulating at its finest. And when it comes to fashion, bid adieu to tight-fitting clothes and welcome the companionship of compression stockings. Hydrate like a champion, maintain a healthy physique, and kiss your smoking habit goodbye. By wholeheartedly adopting these measures, you’ll be a force to reckon with, diminishing the impact DVT can have on your life.

 

Filed under: Vein HealthTagged with: , , , ,

Wondering why bulging veins have suddenly taken up residency on your skin? It could be an indicator of many different venous conditions. Two of the most prevalent being hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

 

Both of these conditions are caused by malfunctioning venous valves. But they impact different body parts and require different treatments.

 

Though annoying to deal with, both hemorrhoids and varicose are common and treatable. Hopefully by the end of this article, you’ll be able to give these nuisances the boot and live your best bulging vein-free life.

 

Bulging Veins: A Symptom of an Underlying Problem?

 

When you have bulging veins, the blood pressure within your veins has increased. The veins have become dilated and stretched out, making them more apparent to the naked eye. And making it so you don’t want to wear anything that reveals the venous protrusions on your legs.

 

Let’s get into the differences between hemorrhoids and varicose veins and why they provide such a breeding ground for bulging veins.

 

What You Need to Know About Hemorrhoids

 

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum. They cause pain, itching, bleeding, and are just generally awkward to talk about. Probably why you’re reading this article rather than describing your swollen anal veins to a doctor. Hemorrhoids can be internal, inside the rectum, or external, under the skin around the anus.

 

Hemorrhoids can be accompanied by a variety of unpleasant side effects. External hemorrhoids, in particular, can provoke bleeding due to the strain and irritation they incite during bowel movements. They can also cause the rather embarrassing condition of a protruding or prolapsed anus. Unfortunately, this also means that sitting down can be a royal pain in the behind.

 

Common causes of hemorrhoids include:

  • Pregnancy
  • Straining during a bowel movement
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Overweight
  • Eating a low-fiber diet

 

Are Hemorrhoids and Varicose Veins the Same?

 

There are several distinct differences between hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Mainly in the way they look and where they reside. Varicose veins pop up like blue and purple party favors on your legs and feet, complete with a twisted, tangled venous pattern. Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, prefer to keep it low-key in the down-low region. So, while they may cause similar itchy, painful sensations, the main difference is that one is out there for everyone to see, and the other is a closeted condition.

 

Hemorrhoids and varicose veins have the same root cause but require different treatments. Varicose veins can be treated with procedures like sclerotherapy or radio frequency ablation. However, there are many methods for treating this condition, all dependent on the type of venous disease you’re dealing with.

 

Your relief from hemorrhoids could be just a wipe away. In fact, there are numerous low-maintenance treatment options for the condition:

  • Over-the-counter creams
  • Pads containing witch hazel or numbing agents
  • Regular soaking in a warm bath
  • Taking oral pain relievers to control inflammation
When to Seek Medical Treatment

 

Both hemorrhoids and varicose veins are fairly liveable conditions. But you should still be wary of worsening symptoms. After all, you don’t want your legs, feet, or anal cavity to look and feel any more unpleasant than they already do.

 

Notify a doctor if you notice the following hemorrhoid issues:

  • You are experiencing blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
  • Your hemorrhoids are painful and not healing

 

See a doctor for varicose veins when:

  • You have a sudden increase in pain
  • You experience calf swelling
  • You develop leg sores, throbbing, fever, or red/discolored skin
  • Your leg feels warm to the touch

 

Hemorrhoids and Varicose Veins: A Tale of Two Vein Problems

 

While equally annoying to deal with and look at, hemorrhoids and varicose veins are separate conditions both linked to bulging veins. What they have in common is that they are both treatable. Whether you decide to visit your trusted vein specialist or just hit up your neighborhood pharmacy, relief from those unsightly bulges and all the other irritating symptoms that come with hemorrhoids and varicose veins is within reach.

Filed under: Vein HealthTagged with: , , , ,

Are you putting off vein treatment because you think it will take too long and recovery will be too time consuming? Worried you won’t be able to afford time off from work and other life responsibilities?

 

Doctor performing vein treatment on patient

Even in health-threatening situations, people feel as though their bustling schedules don’t allow the time it’ll take to get a procedure done. But despite what you may think, the vein treatment process has been streamlined to work around your mega-busy life. In fact, many procedures can be done and recovered from in less than a day.

 

Here we will break down how long each vein treatment takes and what the recovery process will be like. Once you learn how easy and convenient these procedures are, you’ll be ready to book your first appointment!

 

The Truth About Vein Treatments: Duration and Recovery Time

 

We’re pretty sure no one likes painful, grueling, and excessively lengthy treatments that leave us feeling exhausted and totally unmotivated. So you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that all the treatments we provide at Delaware Advanced Vein Center are exceptionally quick and require little to no recovery time. Here’s what you can expect when you get any of the following treatments at our clinic.

 

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

 

Ambulatory phlebectomy is one of the most minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins. During the process, a teeny-tiny needle is used to make a small incision near your enlarged vein. A hook is then used to graciously remove the vein from your skin.

 

The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour depending on how many veins are being treated. Afterward, the incision area is wrapped in a bandage and patients can feel free to live their lives as they please. We do recommend you take it easy until you have your post-treatment follow-up two days later. Skydiving, marathon running, or extreme sports playing of any sort should be avoided momentarily.

 

Ideally, you would only need to have one ambulatory phlebectomy to rid yourself of varicose veins for life. But some people may need multiple rounds. This can depend on the size and number of varicose veins you want to treat. You can have multiple veins worked on at once, but this lengthens the duration of the procedure. If you have lots of varicose veins to fix and no more than an hour to do it, you may want to make an additional appointment.

 

You’ll be relieved to know that the recovery period for an ambulatory phlebectomy is pretty much nonexistent. Especially compared to surgeries that require you to be off your feet for weeks. You might start to miss your varicose veins a bit, but you’ll be too busy showing off your newly beautified legs!

 

Sclerotherapy

 

Sclerotherapy is a remarkably quick vein treatment used to diminish the look of spider veins. It differs from other venous treatments as it uses a snazzy medical solution called sclerosant to collapse the vein within your body. This forces the lining of your skin to stick together and your body to absorb the vein. Eventually, the itsy bitsy spider vein will cease to exist.

 

You may need multiple rounds of sclerotherapy in order to eliminate your spider veins once and for all. This is reliant upon the severity of your spider veins as well as your age and overall health. In general, spider veins respond to sclerotherapy in three to six weeks, and larger veins respond in three to four months.

 

If you find yourself sensitive to treatments of any kind, even ones as painless and easy as sclerotherapy, it may be best to spread treatments out over several weeks. Luckily, each session of sclerotherapy is very quick. It usually takes 10 to 30 minutes—so short your boss won’t know you left work.

 

There’s no recovery period for sclerotherapy. Though you may feel slightly sore around the incision area, it’s right back to the grind after the treatment is done. Once again, a procedure made to fit our footloose and fancy-free lives.

 

Venous Ablation

 

Venous ablation is a method used to treat varicose veins and venous insufficiency. During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted into the affected vein. It then emits radio-frequency heat to disrupt the structure of your vein walls. This causes the vein to collapse and ultimately absorb into your body.

 

Venous ablation is less of a cosmetic procedure and more for the sake of relieving discomfort caused by your vein condition. It’s often used in patients experiencing significant pain or swelling from varicose veins or venous insufficiency. Each round of the procedure only takes 45 minutes. But like the other vein treatments we’ve discussed, depending on how intense your vein condition is, you may need multiple rounds over the course of weeks to be completely effective. Just think of it as more quality time spent with your vein specialist.

 

The recovery period for venous ablation is slightly more involved as post-treatment bruising and discomfort may last a few days. But considering how much it can reduce the pain you’ve endured from your vein condition, we swear it’ll be worth your time.

 

Venous Ultrasound

 

Venous ultrasounds are a necessary part of identifying any turmoil going on within your veins. They are taken before treatments to detect venous insufficiency. During the ultrasound, a probe is used to measure your blood flow and see if it’s traveling in the opposite direction. This all-powerful procedure also measures the size of your veins and can even detect deep vein thrombosis.

 

The good news for those nervous about vein treatments is that venous ultrasounds are completely non-invasive. They don’t hurt a bit, they don’t require needles or incisions, and they allow you to return to work right away. Most importantly, they give you the answers you need to make important decisions about your future vein treatments. How efficient!

What’s the Best Time of Year for Vein Treatments?

 

There’s never a wrong time to schedule vein treatments, but there are definitely more strategic times of the year for having them done. Isn’t one of the biggest inspirations for ridding your skin of spider and varicose veins to have fun in the summer sun while wearing your favorite swim trunks or sundresses? It may be hard to confidently do that with a big bandage on your legs. Fall is thus the prime time for starting vein treatment, giving your plenty of time to recover before warm weather rolls around again. Especially if your varicose or spider veins are abundant and you suspect you’ll need multiple rounds of treatment.

 

Vein specialists say it’s best to stay out of the sun for the first couple of weeks after your treatment. That’s because sun exposure can cause skin discoloration in the area where your procedure was done. Your post-treatment bandages and compression socks will go perfectly with all your autumnal layers. And cooler temperatures make going out for a breezy walk in the leaves much more enjoyable. Getting lots of steps in keeps your blood circulating, which is an absolute must for a full and healthy recovery.

 

Make Time for a Vein Treatment

 

Time can be a barrier to getting procedures of any kind. But when it comes to sclerotherapy, venous ablation, ambulatory phlebectomy, or venous ultrasounds, the sacrifices are truly minuscule.

All of these procedures take very little time and involve little to no recovery time. These highly efficient treatments are made to disrupt your life as little as possible. Plus our free virtual vein consultations only take 30 minutes. You now have one less excuse for putting off vein treatment—contact us today!

Filed under: Vein TreatmentTagged with: , , , , ,

Feeling self-conscious about your spider veins? Then sclerotherapy treatment is the answer for you. This quick, non-surgical treatment can help reduce the appearance of spider veins and some varicose veins. Just think, sclerotherapy might give you back the confidence to wear shorts in the summer again!

Doctor inserting needle into patient's spider veins.

 

As with any medical procedure, apprehension can be common. Particularly with vein treatments, because in order to fix veins, you must go beneath the surface of the skin. This can cause a great deal of dread for people who can barely get themselves through a flu shot.

 

If you’re one who fears medical treatments of any kind, you’re in the right place. We’ll give you an all-encompassing look at what it’s like to get sclerotherapy, what to expect before and after the treatment, and how long it’ll take to see results.

 

Is Sclerotherapy Really for Me?

 

Do you want to stop withering away in a pair of pants when it’s 90 degrees outside? If so, sclerotherapy is definitely worth your while. Just look at some before and after pictures of the procedure. As you can see, the results can be life-changing. Especially if spider veins are compromising your self-confidence.

 

All things considered, sclerotherapy is a quick and easy procedure. The process can be uncomfortable but not intolerable. At Delaware Advanced Vein Center, we use the smallest needle available to lessen pain and improve recovery. So rest assured that we’ll do everything we can to make sure your sclerotherapy experience is as efficient and smooth as possible.

 

Everything You Should Know About Sclerotherapy Side Effects

 

Though the effectiveness of sclerotherapy can be life changing, it’s not without side effects. When you undergo sclerotherapy, the following outcomes are possible:

  • Ulcers on the skin
  • Scarring and dark spots
  • Allergic reactions
  • Superficial phlebitis
  • Deep vein thrombosis

 

Let’s be clear—these side effects sound a lot more extreme than they really are. The likelihood of ulcers developing is 0.2 to 1.2%. And though scarring may occur after the treatment, it should not be permanent. Hemosiderin staining, caused by iron in red blood cells, can stain your skin after injection. But this generally lasts 1-2 years and is rarely permanent.

 

Dark spots aren’t an uncommon side effect of sclerotherapy. But they are known to disappear six months later. In the grand scheme of things, these temporary side effects are certainly worth the confidence you’ll gain from ridding your legs of spider veins.

 

Superficial phlebitis, aka vein inflammation, can be linked to sclerotherapy. But if the correct measures are taken (which include compression and anti-inflammatory medication) this should be no problem. Allergic reactions, ranging from mild to severe, are a possible but uncommon outcome of sclerotherapy. Test to see if you are allergic to the solution used in treatment. If that’s the case, there are plenty of wonderful alternatives your doctor can use instead.

 

The risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) may sound terrifying, but rest assured that it’s very, very rare. In fact, less than 1% of patients who undergo sclerotherapy experience it. And of those patients, the majority have existing thromboembolic complications. If you currently have DVT, a conversation with your vein specialist can help you determine if sclerotherapy is a safe option for you.

 

The Remarkable Speed of Sclerotherapy Treatment

 

Sclerotherapy is one of the most efficient vein procedures out there. It only lasts 10 to 30 minutes. Why so short? Because it’s a very simple procedure that allows you and your vein specialist to briskly banish those vile veins and get on with your day.

 

Sclerotherapy starts by injecting a solution called sclerosant into the vein to irritate its lining. This collapses the vein and causes the lining to stick together. Like magic, the vein is absorbed by your body and eventually disappears altogether.

 

Does the thought of collapsed lining and vein absorption make you cringe? It shouldn’t. The sclerotherapy process is a cinch and will be over before you know it. That being said, you’ll want to prepare for the treatment beforehand. So here are the best ways to make sure you’re ready.

 

How To Prep for Your Sclerotherapy Treatment

 

Obeying the following rules will ensure you don’t have any issues during your sclerotherapy treatment:

 

  • Refrain from Vitamin E or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like Advil or aspirin for at least 1 week before treatment. This may be bad news for those with a proclivity for headaches. But the migraines will be worth it for spider vein-free skin.
  • Wearing loose-fitting clothing is the best thing you can do for your veins at this time. So trade in those skin-tight jeans and yoga pants for your baggiest pair of sweats.
  • Now is not the time for moisturization. Your skin should be void of any lotion prior to treatment.
  • For optimal success, this procedure requires a sober, smoke-free patient. So avoid consuming alcohol or nicotine beforehand.

 

Best Practices for Successful Sclerotherapy Recovery

 

Following these instructions will ensure a smooth recovery:

  • Avoid sports or exercise for at least 10 days after your treatment. Because why not take the only opportunity your doctor will give you to be superbly lazy for a week and a half?
  • Wear compression stockings for 5 days or as advised by your doctor. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of stylish options to choose from.
  • Avoid warm baths, sunbathing, hot tubs, and saunas for at least 2-3 days after your treatment. This causes blood vessels to dilate.

 

What to Realistically Expect From Sclerotherapy

 

Don’t be under the impression that this surgery instantly erases any trace of spider veins. Your veins will be visible after treatment and may last anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months. The duration of this is dependent on how large the veins were, to begin with.

 

Ideally, those pesky spider veins would cease to exist after your first round of sclerotherapy. But the likelihood of eliminating all of them within one session is small. So you’ll probably want to schedule a follow-up treatment in 4-6 weeks. Most people need 2-3 sessions or more to achieve their desired results. But since sclerotherapy is so easy and quick, this should be no biggie.

 

Sclerotherapy Is Easier Than You Think

 

If your boss won’t sign off on two weeks of post-treatment recovery, you’re in luck. As soon as the sclerotherapy is done, you can head straight back to work. You may experience some minor pain at the injection site but all in all, this treatment won’t stop you from moving onward and upwards.

 

What’s the magic formula for avoiding potential side effects from sclerotherapy? Following all of your vein doctor’s post-treatment advice to a T. This can lower your risk of experiencing cramps, scarring, or browning of the skin and ensure the most successful results. And if you’re still not convinced, give this video a watch and see just how irresistible your veins can look after sclerotherapy.

 

 

Filed under: Spider Veins, Vein TreatmentTagged with: , , , ,

We’ll be honest—getting spider veins in your 20s or 30s is pretty early. Because they’re much more prevalent later in life, having premature spider veins can give you reasonable cause for alarm. 

 

Although they look less than desirable, having spider veins is not the end of the world. There are logical explanations as to why they can happen in your 20s and 30s. And they can be remedied by a variety of simple lifestyle changes. So let’s start this journey to understanding and curing spider veins by explaining what they are. 

Why Do Spider Veins Develop?

 

Women in chair with spider veins on her legs.

You’re probably familiar with one of the most common vein conditions: varicose veins. Spider veins are different. They are smaller and closer to the skin’s surface. They can be bright red or blue, with jagged, short lines, resembling the look of spider webs. Spider veins usually appear on your legs but can also show up on your chest, arms, or face. 

 

Spider veins are typically the result of broken capillaries. Capillaries are small blood vessels near the skin’s surface that can become enlarged or dilated. When this happens, web-like patterns appear on the skin. 

 

Spider veins may be caused by weakened or damaged valves. The very valves responsible for making sure the blood in your veins flows towards your heart. When these valves are damaged, blood can flow the wrong way. This causes pooling and subsequent valve enlargement.

 

Weakened valves are not the only factor in the development of premature spider veins. The exact cause is actually unknown. It’s assumed to be linked to a variety of environmental and genetic factors. Let’s explain what risk factors could be contributing to spider veins in your 20s or 30s.

What Causes Premature Spider Veins to Form?

 

Having a family history of blood clots or varicose veins can put you at a higher risk for developing spider veins. But genetics isn’t the only cause. Many other elements can contribute to premature spider veins. So if you’re concerned about developing them, or have already spotted them on your skin, here are some additional risk factors to look out for:

Sun Exposure

 

UVA and UVB radiation from the sun can inflame blood vessels. This draws them closer to the skin, especially for those who are fair. Radiation can also weaken elasticity, causing the skin to become thinner and veins more visible. 

 

Excess sunlight can cause your capillaries to dilate and widen. This, as we’ve learned, leads to the development of spider veins. UVA and UVB radiation can also be a cause as they can damage blood vessels, thus enlarging them and putting you at further risk for spider veins.

Hormonal Changes

 

Hormone changes, especially for women on birth control or who are pregnant, can weaken your vein walls. That’s because estrogen levels increase along with your blood levels. This puts excess pressure on your veins, which may cause a potential burst. 

 

Progesterone can also lead to vein enlargement and thus spider veins. This hormone increases during pregnancy, making veins more susceptible to damage. 

Blood Pressure

 

Having high blood pressure in your 20s and 30s can put you at risk of developing premature spider veins. Because this condition causes blood flow restriction, veins are more likely to bulge and turn into spider veins on your skin. High blood pressure can also damage your blood vessels and vein walls, which is known to cause vein enlargement. 

 

Your blood pressure doesn’t have to be high for you to have spider veins. In fact, people with otherwise healthy blood pressure can temporarily alter their levels. This can occur when you experience sneezing or vomiting so intensely that it breaks your capillaries. Though unlikely this can be a reason why people in their 20s and 30s, who are less likely to have high blood pressure, could develop spider veins. 

Fair Skin

 

People of any skin tone can develop spider veins. But they are more apparent in those with fair skin. Because of the contrasting colors, the vibrant red and blue tones of spider veins are extra visible on lighter complexions. This can cause your skin to look flushed and red, resembling the appearance of a rash. 

Alcohol

 

You may have noticed that when you drink a lot of alcohol, your skin looks redder. This is also what makes spider veins more visible and more likely to form. Alcohol causes blood vessel dilation, elevated blood pressure, constricted blood flow and circulation, and increased pressure in your veins. All of these factors contribute to the formation of spider veins. 

High Heels

 

If you’re a fan of high heels, we have some unfortunate news. Stilettos, wedges, and platforms—basically any shoe that compromises pediatric function—can limit your calves’ ability to pump blood back up through your veins. And because of the discomfort you experience while wearing them, high heels can discourage you from walking. Whether caused by uncomfortable shoes or sedentary lifestyles, inactivity can put you at higher risk for developing spider veins.

Simple Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Spider Veins 

 

There are many lifestyle changes young people can make to either prohibit or treat the appearance of spider veins. Consider these tips and remedies for preventing spider veins in your 20s and 30s:

  • Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
  • Avoid extreme heat from hot showers, saunas, or beaches
  • Get regular physical activity to get your blood circulating and maintain a healthy weight
  • Refrain from excessive drinking

Worried About Spider Veins? Add This to Your To-do List

 

If you have spider veins there are a few treatments to consider. These depend on the severity of your spider veins and how much they bother you. And before you get them treated, it’s important to have your veins checked out by a certified vein specialist. Here are some options to consider:

  • Sclerotherapy: This is the most common and effective medical procedure for treating spider veins. A chemical is injected into your veins that blocks blood flow. It may take more than one round of treatment to address a vein.
  • Laser Treatment: This treatment applies strong surges of light to the affected area, causing the spider vein to fade away. The advantage of this procedure is that there are no incisions or needles involved. However, it may not be as effective as sclerotherapy. Redness, swelling, and skin discoloration are common side effects.

Don’t Let Spider Veins Hold You Back

 

Let’s clear up any fears of potential health issues by establishing that spider veins are purely cosmetic. Still, many people find their lives negatively affected by their appearance. This can be especially true when you develop spider veins in your 20s and 30s. 

 

If your spider veins are affecting your quality of life, it’s worth pursuing treatment. Or making lifestyle changes that could decrease your chances of forming spider veins. Doing either can make you feel more confident and even improve your overall health.

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