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Spider Veins

Lee Health: Personalized Treatment Plans for Spider Veins

Lee health is committed to providing the best vein and vascular care in Southwest Florida. Known for providing exceptional care, our trained experts are here for you every step of the way. That means extra support and guidance when patients are ready to make the transition to adult or specialty care.

Vein Treatment Centers Serving Fort Myers and Cape Coral

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are small, damaged veins that appear on the surface of the legs or face. Spider veins get their name from the shape of the discolorations spread on the body, and they are most common on the thighs, ankles and calves.

Men and women of all ages can develop spider veins, and they are usually hereditary. Becoming pregnant or sudden lifestyle changes may also affect the chance of developing spider veins. People who stand for long periods of time are also at a higher risk. 

Spider veins are not normally painful, but patients often seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.

Symptoms also include:

  • Dull aching
  • Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in the lower legs
  • Leg achiness 
  • Leg heaviness 
  • Itching on skin 

While spider veins don't cause any signification health risks they can impact your quality of life, and they may signal the presence of other problems that do pose a risk to your health such as varicose veins and venous insufficiency. 

Causes of Spider Veins

Spider veins, can occur when veins are damaged. They develop when the one-way valves inside the veins weaken. As the blood accumulates in the vein leading to what is referred to as spider veins. While spider veins often present on the legs, they can occur anywhere in the body.

Some potential causes for spider veins include:

  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Sunlight
  • Hormonal Changes
  • Injury
  • Standing or sitting for long periods of time
  • Age over 50
  • Family history of spider veins

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Spider Vein Treatment Options

Vein treatment is often nonsurgical, resulting in minimal discomfort and faster recovery times. Treatment options to help prevent spider veins range from self-care to minor surgery.

  • Support stockings
  • Laser Treatment Therapy
  • Sclerotherapy (flushing a salt solutions throught the veins) 

How to Prevent Spider Veins

While the below self-care treatment options won't eliminate existing spider veins, there are a few ways you can prevent future spider veins.

  • Exercise
  • Elevate your legs
  • Walking or moving every 30 minutes if sitting for long periods
  • Taking a break every 30 minutes if standing for extended periods
  • Avoid soaking in hot baths for extended periods.

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