What are Thread and Varicose Veins
Thread veins are tiny superficial veins that have become dilated and go by a variety of names including Telangiectasia or spider veins to describe a network of very fine veins. The slightly larger superficial veins tend to be called thread veins . As we get older changes occur in the skin, which becomes thinner and more fragile, therefore the blood vessels near the skin surface become much more obvious. Weathering of the facial skin is also a contributing factor.
Varicose veins are deeper and significantly more substantial, most commonly seen in the legs and result from faulty valves in the leg veins, which allows the blood to flow back down the leg veins. These tend to appear as raised snake like shapes that are dark blue or purple in colour, depending upon their size and depth. We do not currently treat varicose veins and will be happy to refer you to a specialist.
What causes thread veins and varicose veins?
In most cases, there is a family history so the cause is likely to be genetic although there are other factors including exposure to wind or extreme temperatures, cortico-steroid medicines and radiotherapy.
Patients often find the appearance of thread veins quite distressing but can be reassured that though unsightly, they are unlikely to cause medical problems. They can be treated and their appearance significantly improved. A key factor in thread vein treatment is that thread veins tend to become more common and apparent with age. Around one in five women in their 20s have thread veins. This rises to around 50% at age forty and by the age of 70 over 70% of women have some thread veins. Early treatment of small thread veins is certainly easier and cheaper than the treatment of larger older thread veins that have been allowed to develop.
Although usually just a cosmetic problem thread veins on the legs can cause symptoms like burning pain and itching.
Varicose Veins often result from the additional pressure exerted on the legs during pregnancy.
Treatment of Thread Veins
The treatment we will recommend for the removal of thread veins will depend upon the size, number and location of the veins
Telangiectasia
Is a term normally used for a fine network of veins, typically each not more than 0.1mm diameter and with the appearance of a fine mat of veins. This would also be similar to the flushing people tend to get with some types of rosacea.
This is best treated with IPL which can be a very quick and effective treatment when treating very fine vessels.
Thread or Spider Veins
As the veins increase in size to between typically 0.2 to 2.0mm we would treat them individually with our Spectra Vein laser. This is a specialised laser and produces a fine infrared beam that is used to cauterise the veins. This is a well tolerated treatment that will usually remove the smaller diameter veins in a single treatment. Larger diameter veins may require up to 3 treatments.
Larger Diameter Thread veins
An alternative treatment for larger thread veins is sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the vein. The sclerotherapy solution causes the vein to collapse, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. The collapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and eventually fades.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins result from the failure of valves in larger veins and are a more significant problem. Currently Cosmex Clinic does not treat varicose veins and we will be happy to refer you to a qualified specialist. Varicose veins are normally treated using either foaming sclerotherapy or surgery.
Are there any alternative treatments?
You will also be advised on cosmetic camouflage to improve the appearance for particular outfits or events and the use of compression hosiery for the management of symptoms such as aching, swelling and itchiness.
General at home prevention includes:
- Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun and to limit spider veins on the face.
- Exercise regularly to improve your leg strength, circulation, and vein strength.
- Weight control to avoid placing too much pressure on your legs.
Frequently Asked Question
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