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Contact UsUnderlying cardiovascular disease may be manifested in the appearance of the legs. The small red spider veins and blue telangectasias may be a sign of cardiovascular issues. They represent circulatory stress that ultimately will result in the large tortuous varicose veins. This can lead to swelling and pain severe enough to prevent certain activities, creating medical and cosmetic concerns. Nearly 25 million Americans suffer from spider veins and varicose veins. Genetics, hormones, weight, occupational stresses, and many other factors play a key role in the development of these conditions.
A common underlying condition is venous reflux in the saphenous vein which prohibits the normal movement of blood back to the heart. Thus, blood pools in the veins, distends the venous wall and causes the unsightly appearance of varicose veins. The original technique of vein stripping has been essentially replaced by more advanced techniques of sclerotherapy and laser ablation.
Sclerotherapy is the simple injection of an agent via a tiny needle into the vein to cause the walls to collapse and eventually for the vessel to be reabsorbed by the body. The procedure is essentially painless due to the small size needle used. The vein will immediately collapse, then quickly refill. Over the next 4-6 weeks, the entire vein disappears. Several treatments will be required to allow the vein to disappear.
Laser ablation uses light energy that is absorbed by the blood in the vein. This will generate heat that confers to the vessel wall causing it to become thermally damaged. The natural healing process is to reabsorb the vessel. This technique works extremely well on the vessels of a small caliber in the legs, edge of the nose, and cheeks.
Either technique achieves the same result in the reabsorption of the vein. Normal side effects include swelling at the injection site and slight discomfort in the leg treated. Compression stockings should be worn for up to 48 hours near continuously to minimize these side effects. In addition, depending on your occupation, stockings may be necessary for up to 2 weeks.
The doctors at Fusion Spa have extensive experience in treating spider veins, telangectasias, and varicose veins. Both modalities are used at the Spa and have become the gold standard in the treatment of unsightly veins. Individual consultation will be provided at Fusion Spa.
David M. Kimble, MD
Fusion Medspa at the CNY Healing Arts Center, Latham
518-250-5758
www.fusionspaofalbany.com
