Thread Vein Information

Treatment of Leg Veins

Thread veins (also known as spider veins or telangiectasia) of the legs is a common problem, particularly affecting women. Small purple or red veins can form anywhere on the leg, from the top of the thigh to the ankle. While these thread veins do not pose any major health problems, they may cause discomfort. Many people who have thread veins find them unsightly and embarrassing, and often attempt to conceal them with clothing or resort to cosmetic cover-ups, the results of which are often disappointing. Today a simple treatment called Thread Vein Removal is successfully being used to correct unwanted thread veins of the legs.

What is Thread Vein Removal?

Thread Vein Removal is a procedure in which a physician, using a syringe with a tiny needle, injects a small amount of a special solution directly into the thread vein. The solution displaces the blood within the vein, making it blanch or turn white. The solution then causes the vessel to become irritated and to close shut, preventing the blood from re-entering the vein. The thread veins will gradually fade and within two to eight weeks following treatment some completely disappear. However, some areas may require several injections to achieve optimum results. Following each treatment the physician may suggest the wearing of medium support tights for approximately one week.

Is the procedure painful?

Patients who have had Thread Vein Removal have reported very little discomfort. Some experience a slight to moderate burning sensation immediately after the injection, but this lasts literally only a few seconds.

Risks?

Most patients experience no adverse effects; however, some minor side effects have been reported. These include slight swelling which occurs as a reaction to the injection. This invariably subsides over two to three days. Swelling sometimes develops when veins in the lower leg or ankle are involved. Although not dangerous, the swelling should be treated at home with elevation. Occasionally, a small, dark area of pigmentation, resembling a freckle, may remain. These spots, however, usually resolve spontaneously, or respond to treatment with bleaching agents if necessary. Bruising around the treated area can occur and will disappear within two to fourteen days. Swelling occasionally occurs, particularly in those patients whose jobs require them to stand or to sit for long periods of time. In some cases the treatment is not effective and can in fact leave the treated area looking slightly brighter in colour.

What causes thread veins?

No one has determined for certain why some people are affected with thread veins and others are not. However, some families seem predisposed to the condition. Trauma to the leg in the form of blows or falls may contribute to the formation of these veins, and long periods of standing may also be causal factors. More women than men seem to develop this condition, perhaps as a result of normal changes, such as the O.C. pill and pregnancy, or because of hormones.

Can thread veins be prevented?

Scientists have not discovered any clear cut methods to prevent the onset of thread veins. However, some authorities believe that the use of support hose, weight control and exercise may be beneficial.

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