Spider Veins
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, thin veins that appear close to the surface of the skin, often resembling a web or branching pattern. They are usually red, blue, or purple and commonly occur on the lower legs. Spider veins are a type of telangiectasia, which means dilated or broken blood vessels.
Spider veins are usually harmless and treatment is often requested for cosmetic reasons. They do not usually cause pain, but in some cases, they may be a sign of poor circulation or underlying vein disease. If spider veins cause discomfort, aching, or itching, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins are caused by damage to, or weakening of small blood vessels and can be due to a number of causes including:
Hormonal Changes – Birth control medication, pregnancy, and menopause may contribute to the development of spider veins by weakening blood vessels or affecting circulation due to changes in estrogen and progesterone levels.
Pregnancy – Spider veins may be related to pregnancy due to a combination of hormonal changes, increased blood volume, added pressure on veins, and slower blood circulation. In some cases, pregnancy-related spider veins may fade after giving birth as hormone levels and circulation returns to normal.
Prolonged Standing or Sitting – Jobs that require long periods of standing, like nursing or retail work can increase pressure on veins, especially in the lower legs. Compression stockings are convenient and comfortable, and can be very beneficial if your job involves a lot of standing, or sitting without regularly changing position.
Sun Exposure – Exposure to UV rays can damage blood vessels, especially on the face.
Ageing – As the body ages, veins lose elasticity and become more prone to damage.
Body Weight – If you are overweight, the extra weight can put more pressure on the walls of veins.
Blood Clots or Circulation Issues – A history of circulatory problems can contribute to vein damage, resulting in spider veins.
Genetics – A family history of spider veins increases the likelihood of developing them.
How Are Spider Veins Treated?
Vein Sclerotherapy – Vein Sclerotherapy (link) involves injecting a mild irritant solution called sclerosant, into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually fade from view.
Laser Therapy – A specialised laser emits light that heats the hemoglobin in the blood inside the spider vein, causing the vein walls to subside and seal shut. They are then naturally absorbed into the body.
Compression Stockings – Compression stockings improve circulation by applying uniform pressure to the skin surface, which gently squeezes veins, making them smaller. This encourages blood to circulate upward, preventing blood from pooling in lower limbs and reducing the likelihood of spider veins developing or worsening.
Lifestyle Changes – After an initial consultation, Dr. O’Donnell may recommend minor lifestyle changes such as getting more exercise, weight management, or avoiding prolonged standing or sitting to reduce damage to blood vessels in the legs.
Treatment Is Safe And Effective
Surgical treatment for spider veins is minimally invasive.
Sessions of 30 to 60 minutes are conducted in Dr. O'Donnell’s consulting rooms.
Vascular ultrasound may be used to ensure optimal results.
The recovery process is simple and typically short.
Cosmetic appearance is improved and discomfort caused by spider veins is relieved.
Access quality minimally invasive endovascular & open vascular surgical care on the Sunshine Coast.
What to expect when visiting Dr Jill O’Donnell for Spider Vein Treatment
Consultation
Treatment
Recovery
Why choose Dr Jill O’Donnell for Spider Vein treatment
Dr. O'Donnell provides vascular surgical care tailored to your specific condition
Dr. O’Donnell has over 10 years of experience, specialising in minimally invasive endovascular & open vascular surgical care.
Communication is important, so you are involved every step of the way
You can choose from a variety of clinics across the Sunshine Coast