Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Spider Veins Are Colored Veins That Can Be Seen On The Surface Of The Skin By Jarl Jacobsen

Spider veins are colored veins that can be seen on the surface of the skin. This is mostly not painful, but enlarged varicose veins can be. They are liable to bleed and worsen without treatment. Spider veins can mostly be found in the legs, but have also been known to be visible on the face and elsewhere. They are medically referred to as telangectasias. They are also compared to varicose veins. Do not get the two confused. Varicose veins are large rope veins in the legs while spider veins are much smaller. They will become large, embarrassing, and painful. Spider veins can be seen, but they are much less noticeable than varicose.

As for treatment, some people will get cosmetic surgery because of the need to be flawless. Some people will also get treatment for medical benefits, but that is more for the varicose veins. The reason why they appear is the fact that the circulatory system tends to suffer with age. Varicose veins and spider veins increase your chances of heart attack or stroke.

Your condition will occur gradually or rapidly, but if not getting proper medical attention, your condition will become worse. If you go untreated, the spider veins may lead to other medical problems. It can cause issues with your blood circulation and lead to other ailments like blood clots, leg ulcers, infections, and skin changes.

To treat your spider and varicose veins you have several treatment offers. Support stockings may need to be put on everyday before getting out of bed or even worn all day. This will not make them go away, but it will provide some support and relieve from symptoms. You may also need to get medication injection into your veins. This is known as sclerotherapy. It is today's most common method to treat spider and varicose veins. It is where the medicine will allow the veins to become eliminated.

Foam sclerotherapy is where the medications are mixed with air to give them a foamy texture. When getting the procedure done, it can be done in the doctors office and no anesthesia is required. You can get the procedure done with and then go home afterwards. Ambulatory Phlebectomy is where surgery is done with multiple incisions are made along the vein and it is taken out by using surgical hooks. This is usually not done for the spider veins, but more for the varicose veins. Lasers are also being used to treat varicose veins, but it is not necessary for spider veins.

Spider veins most often do not have an increase in pressure so they aren't as severe as varicose veins. They often arise because of estrogen and most woman get them during pregnancy or when taking birth control or an estrogen replacement therapy. They normally don't cause any problems, but are considered unattractive. Many people have their spider veins dealt with are doing it for cosmetic purposes rather than medical purposes. However, a doctor may become concerned if you have many spider veins pop up rapidly.

The author J. L. Jacobsen is a freelance writher, and writhe articles of difference stuff. Medical is one of the favourites. [http://www.online-medical.biz]

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jarl_Jacobsen

Friday, August 6, 2010

What You Should Know Before Choosing Cosmetic Spider Vein and Varicose Vein Treatment By Douglas H. Joyce, D. O.

Many people who have unsightly spider veins and varicose veins think about the cosmetic aspects of these problems alone. In reality, when underlying venous disease is present, treating these conditions as a cosmetic problem is likely to lead to disappointing results when the condition returns and possibly progresses to become a serious and debilitating condition.

Spider Veins, Varicose Veins and Venous Disease

The first and most important step when seeking spider vein and varicose vein treatment is to realize that a problem with the venous system in the body produced this condition. Cosmetic spider and varicose vein treatment alone does nothing to address this underlying problem.

In order to understand why spider veins and varicose veins develop, it is important to know how the venous system works. Values in the superficial and deep perforator veins in the legs keep blood flowing in a normal direction towards the heart. When these valves stop working properly or become incompetent, blood flows backwards producing a variety of bothersome symptoms. In the early stages of venous disease, the cosmetic aspects of the problem may be all that is noticed. As venous disease becomes more pronounced, symptoms ranging from aching, burning, tired legs and swelling to leg wounds that don't heal, thickened discolored skin and leg ulcers may all develop. Complaints are generally milder in the morning and increase later in the day or with long periods of activity or standing. Sleep disturbances are common and are due to leg cramps, leg pain and unusual sensations in the legs.

Patients are often bothered by the appearance of spider veins and varicose veins that develop along with the above mentioned related symptoms. Spider veins occur when the venous problem affects the smallest and most delicate veins in the superficial venous system. As venous disease becomes more advanced, larger veins are affected, resulting in the emergence of varicose veins. Problems in the deeper perforator venous system are associated with more serious venous disease symptoms. These patients often have a problem in both systems.

What Patients Seeking Cosmetic Vein Treatment Can Expect at a Typical Vein Treatment Center

Most cosmetic spider vein and varicose vein treatment centers fail to address the underlying cause of the vein problem. Patients are offered a quick fix but no evaluation is performed for signs of underlying venous disease. In reality, many physicians from dermatologists to plastic surgeons and radiologists are jumping on the band wagon to offer these services as a lucrative profit center for their practice. Although they do a great job at eliminating the cosmetic aspects of existing spider veins and/or varicose veins, they can be doing the patient a great disservice. These physicians are not vein treatment specialists and do not have the equipment, knowledge or skills to provide anything but cosmetic services. And when venous disease is present, patients are not told that it is likely that more spider veins and varicose veins will develop in other areas of the legs.

A More Effective and Permanent Spider Vein and Varicose Vein Treatment Solution

Unlike vein centers that provide cosmetic services alone, a vein treatment specialist will begin with a diagnostic evaluation to determine whether venous disease is present. Treatment is provided that not only addresses the cosmetic aspects of spider and varicose veins but offers a permanent solution by eliminating the underlying problem with the incompetent valves.

Having Private Insurance Cover The Costs of Treating Varicose and Spider Veins

Unlike cosmetic vein treatment that is strictly the patient's responsibility, venous disease treatment is generally covered by private insurance and Medicare. If venous disease is found to be present, the patient has his or her vein problem diagnosed and treated with little or no out-of-pocket costs.

Selecting a Vein Treatment Specialist for Your Spider Vein and Varicose Vein Removal

The best vein treatment facility is one that helps patients through cutting edge treatments that offer a safe and permanent cure for their underlying venous disease. A successful outcome is much more likely when choosing an experienced board certified physician in Phlebology (venous disease) with a proven track record for curing venous disease. Those seeking vein treatment are advised to look for facilities that include state-of-the-art diagnostics and fully equipped office operating rooms for providing treatment in a single office visit under local anesthesia.

Dr. Douglas H. Joyce, D.O. is Triple Board Certified in Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgery, General Surgery and Phlebology (Venous Disease) and is an internationally recognized vein specialist. He is founder and director of the Joyce Vein & Aesthetic Institute in Punta Gorda, FL. From his treatment of spider veins to serious venous leg ulcers and a variety of aesthetic skin problems, Dr. Joyce's innovative and technologically advanced treatment methods are safe, highly effective, convenient and cost effective for patients. He has set a new standard, raising the bar for successful and permanent treatment of venous disease. Dr. Joyce's desire to always be on the cutting edge and offer the best treatments has led him to become a leader in vein treatment and skin care. His goal is always to eliminate the underlying problem rather than use a symptomatic or cosmetic approach alone. View before/after pictures, featured cases and request a vein treatment consultation or complimentary skin care evaluation at http://www.jvai.com/venous-cosmetic-treatment-examples.php

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Douglas_H._Joyce,_D._O.

Monday, August 2, 2010

Spider Veins - First Signs of a Spider Veins Attack By Tim Faber

The first signs of a spider vein attack are small. In all likelihood you would not even see it coming. You might see a small little purple line here or there that you could very easily associate with a scratch or a bump.

No big deal is usually the response that most people would give to the first signs of a spider vein attack. This, however, is when you should be paying the closest attention to the first appearances of a spider vein issue. Catching them before they gain a leg-hold is the best way to keeping your legs and face spider vein free.

Where there are current spider veins that have developed, don't despair. Many vitamin K creams and products developed for spider vein removal are very effective at lessening the appearance of and fading pre-existing outbreaks - especially with consistent and disciplined use.

Unfortunately, where there is one spider vein there are sure to be others on the way. Preparing the skin for the next onslaught with a k vitamin cream or skin cream regiment is one of the best ways to fight back.

Spider veins are a result of the small blood veins (capillaries) dilating due to increased pressure. If one vein is experiencing dilation the others surrounding the first will eventually fall to increased pressure and dilation as well. Preparing these veins is the key.

Proactive steps can work

Although the actual vein will dilate one way or the other, because of increased pressure, the vein can still be made to be more ready for the occurrence. If you catch the first signs of a spider vein, and prepare the veins around it, the likelihood that the attack will spread too much further can be hoped for.

Beating the pressure back-up to the punch is the key to less severe outbreaks of spider veins and the eventual elimination of them. Stronger veins are the key to success in this regard and should be paid attention to as you move toward your prime spider vein years.

Vitamin K and natural complexes such as Phytotonine help strengthen vein walls and improve microcirculation in the capillaries. The lack thereof is a primary cause of spiders.

Improving vein health, stopping seeping blood, coagulation and helping valve health can greatly improve your chances that spider viens will not spread or that you will clear-up and arrest spider vein occurrence.

Behaviour modification

If you see the first signs of a spider vein attack you may want to consider a few other steps to mitigating their spread. Standing for prolonged periods of time over prolonged periods is a contributing factor to the occurrence of spider veins.

One particular preventative measure may be to rearrange your habits so that you are not standing quite as much. Overall, this will probably not stop the spider vein attack all together, but it will help to slow the progression and eventual elimination of spider veins with the help of a spider veins treatment.

Learn more about spider veins and their treatment by visiting Skin Energizer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Faber

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Various Kinds Of Varicose Blood vessels You Ought to Know About

Most individuals seem to think that you can only get varicose veins inside your legs, which isn't true. Actually, varicose veins can occur in many other parts of your entire body. These include your abdomen, pelvic, vulvar and uterus. Varicose blood vessels can even occur on the face.

Varicose Blood vessels In the Legs

Varicose blood vessels are enlarged swollen veins that appear close towards the surface of the skin and are deep blue or purple in color. They are generally unsightly, and caused by malfunctioning blood vessels. Even though any vein can become varicose, but veins most commonly affected are those found within the legs and feet. The reason for this is because as individuals stand and walk, they are in upright positions. This increases pressure in the blood vessels of the lower body which causes damage towards the blood vessels.

Abdominal Varicose Vein

Abdominal varicose vein is basically the exact same as varicose blood vessels in your legs, only that it is located in your abdominal region. The appearance of the impacted blood vessels themselves is also the same. Thus you ought to be capable to tell if you've varicose veins in your abdomen.

There is a garment available especially for persons suffering from varicose veins within the groin and upper thigh areas of the body, including the abdominal region. This garment can be worn by those suffering from abdominal varicose vein to discover some relief from the condition.

Pelvic Varicose Blood vessels

Pelvic varicose blood vessels generally happen throughout pregnancy. Throughout pregnancy, there is an increase within the level of hormones and quantity of blood passing via the blood vessels, which can cause swelling within the pelvic region. This in turn can result in pelvic varicose blood vessels.

As untreated pelvic varicose veins can lead to chronic pelvic pain, you should have them checked out by your physician as soon as you notice them.

Very little pelvic varicose veins you might be treated with lotions or creams that you can apply to your skin to assist shrink the blood vessels. If you have larger or much more prominent pelvic varicose blood vessels, you might require to consider some type of surgery, to treat the impacted varicose veins. This will avoid you from experiencing severe pelvic discomfort. Your doctor will probably be able to provide you a number of different therapy options for your pelvic varicose blood vessels. Make an appointment with your doctor these days to determine which course of therapy will be suitable for you.

Vulvar Varicose Vein

The increase in the level of hormones too as the quantity of blood passing through the veins throughout pregnancy, and also the enlarging from the uterus puts extra pressure about the vulvar resulting in varicose blood vessels.

Numerous people find relief from vulvar varicose veins with tight elastic knickers, lycra bike pants, two pairs of thick underwear or thick sanitary pads.

One more kind of relief from vulvar varicose blood vessels you can try is by wearing the V Brace. It is a help brace worn like underwear that will give you additional help to assist with vulvar varicose vein. This adjustable brace may also assist with back aches, leg aches and other symptoms associated with vulvar varicose blood vessels.

These vulvar varicose veins will generally disappear following your pregnancy. If these vulvar varicose blood vessels persist following your pregnancy, you might need surgery to remove them.

You are able to also try lying down in your left side whenever you sleep at night. This will assist to prevent this uncomfortable situation, because the region that's generally impacted by vulvar varicose blood vessels is located about the right side of the entire body. Propping yourself up with pillows during your sleep to prevent you from rolling onto your correct side, will assist to minimize your risk of obtaining vulvar varicose blood vessels during your pregnancy.

Varicose Blood vessels About the Uterus

Doctors will routinely check for varicose blood vessels on the uterus in most women, particularly pregnant women. If your physician has told you that you have varicose blood vessels in your uterus, but has not suggested any treatment, it's most likely because he isn't concerned about the possibility of complications to your condition.

If you're worried though, it will be a good idea to ask your doctor about the varicose blood vessels in your uterus periodically. This will ensure that they have not progressed to a point where you should seek therapy. If the situation begins to cause you any sort of discomfort or pain, mention it to your physician as soon as feasible so he can advise you on the greatest selection of treatment.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Take A Closer Look At Spider Veins By Sharon A Bell

Nowadays, people are very conscious about their physical appearance. The rise in the popularity of salons, spas and cosmetic clinics is one proof that people are getting obsessed with maintaining their beauty and keeping their skin smooth and flawless. Small problems like slight blemishes on the skin or a little excess flab on the butt are enough to drive many crazy.

One minor cosmetic problem that seems to irritate both men and women is spider veins. These are the red or blue fine thread-like blood vessels that can be seen on the legs, arms, chin, face, and even the nose. Although these unsightly veins do not cause excruciating pain or any serious problems, majority of those who have them will do almost anything just to make these very fine blood vessels disappear from the skin surface. Read on to learn the general characteristics of spider veins.

Different Shapes Of Spider Veins

Knowing the different shapes of spider veins can help you in deciding the extent of treatment that you must use. The shapes of your spider veins can influence the way that skin care treatment will be applied on your skin.

First, you have the linear shape. Most linear spider veins can be seen on the inner knees and legs. As the name implies, linear spider veins are a collection of small straight spider veins in a particular area. They look similar to small red stretch marks except that they are much finer and smaller.

Second, you may develop branch-like spider veins. If you see spider veins that look very much like tree branches or a deer's antlers, you have branch-like spider veins and therefore you may need a wider application of skin care treatment. This shape of spider veins can usually be seen on the upper thighs.

Lastly, your spider veins may exist true to their name, meaning in spider-like shapes. If you look at your feet and you see a web-like collection of purplish, bluish or reddish protruding blood vessels, then you are looking at spider-like shapes of spider veins. In fact, the reason why spider veins are called as such is this particular shape.

Spider Veins Symptoms

The most obvious sign that you shave spider veins is the appearance of bluish or reddish fine lines on some parts of your body. You will know that they are spider veins because they are permanent. Furthermore, you may also experience tingling, burning or itching on the area where the cluster of spider veins is located.

Getting Rid Of Spider Veins

If you have a lot of money, you will not have a hard time finding a spider vein treatment in your nearest spa or cosmetic surgery clinic. Microsclerotherapy that entails the injection of drugs on the affected veins or laser treatment that makes use of light beams to destroy the swollen thread-like blood vessels are the most popular clinical methods of making the spider veins on your skin disappear or lighten up.

You can also use compression stockings. These are specially designed socks that help prevent and minimize the appearance of spider veins. However, if you have spider veins on your face or arms, a compression stocking may not be that helpful.

A balanced diet and regular exercises can also help a lot in both preventing and minimizing the appearance of these unsightly blood vessels on your feet, legs and even arms. Since excess weight can cause spider veins, eating healthy and increased level of activity will enable you to attain the right weight so that your legs and feet will not have to suffer unnecessary pressure from excess pounds.

Another effective way of getting rid of your spider veins is by using creams and lotions that are specifically designed to lessen the appearance of unsightly veins on your skin. You will not have a hard time looking for such products because many are available in beauty stores and on the Internet. If you intend to use creams and lotions, just make sure that the products you use are made with natural and proven ingredients.

Among the products that can help you get rid of spider veins, and also varicose veins, is Veinuderm. You can visit http://Veinuderm.com/ if you want to know more about this product.

Sharon Bell is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premiere online news magazine http://www.healthnfitnesszone.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sharon_A_Bell

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Varicose Vein Myths - A Look at Common Misconceptions in Varicose Vein Illness

You will find very few disease processes that are as widespread or as typical as varicose veins, which are reported to affect up to 1 in 4 adults at some stage in their lives. Even though some people do seek remedies simply because of the unsightly cosmetic appearance of the undesireable veins; varicose veins can cause a multitude of signs and symptoms, discomfort and problems if not treated effectively.

There are many common myths "old wives tales" concerning varicoses, including:

"The prevalence of varicose veins is greater in ladies than it is in men"

This myth is mainly the result of poor study methodology, where doctors have merely counted the quantity of individuals who come and see them, without searching at sufferers who have not attended for consultation. This meant that when research into the prevalence of varicose undesireable veins was carries out in 1990 ladies were perceived to suffer much more frequently than males, as there is a tendency for ladies to be much more health conscious in general and more willing to see their GP.

More recent study, done at the end of the 1990's in Edinburgh, when people had been stopped on the streets and also the quantity of people with signs and signs and symptoms were counted, showed that statistically there was no real difference in between the number of men and the quantity of women suffering the comlaint.

"Pregnancy causes varicose veins"

This myth suggests that numerous women do not suffer signs and symptoms prior to their pregnancy, but the undesireable veins developed throughout or like a result of their pregnancy.

The statistical information showing an equal prevalence between males and ladies suggests that this might be untrue, as if pregnancy did trigger varicoses, then men should not have the same prevalence to the condition as ladies.

Additionally, if would make sense that, if pregnancy did cause varicoses, much more ladies would be observed for varicose veins throughout their child bearing years, but this is not the situation.

Research performed in Chester in the late 1990's using duplex ultrasound shows that only women who've lost their valve function prior to getting pregnant go on to get varicoses after pregnancy.

Ladies improve their blood volume by 40% throughout pregnancy, and this, along with the hormones throughout pregnancy that permit the tissues to stretch, means that varicoses that were not visible prior to pregnancy are now apparent.

The one exception to this rule is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome and women who go on to have a normal vaginal delivery of their baby. In this group of 2% of ladies during pregnancy the abnormal undesireable veins that are apparent as vulval, vaginal or leg veins are due to a problem higher up within the pelvis, namely the ovarian undesireable veins, pelvic veins or iliac veins as the trigger of the problem.

"Varicose undesireable veins are only cosmetic"

Visible varicose undesireable veins are normally blue or green, bulging through the skin from the leg.

As these are the undesireable veins that are seen people, including doctors, assume that these are the problems. In truth, these aren't the problem but the outcome of an underlying source.

The underlying trigger may be the leg muscle pump not working efficiently, and as this fails and gets worse so does the varicose veins. An simple analogy in understanding this is to think of the leg like a weed. If you just chop of f the top of the weed it will continue to keep coming back again time following time. Varicose veins are the top from the weed. Should you just take them out they will come back again time and time again. To treat a weed and also the varicose veins you have to deal with the root from the problem, the underlying concern of the truncal undesireable veins.

"Varicose will re-occur so no point in treating the varicose veins"

Varicose undesireable veins have frequently been referred to as cosmetic problems and a minor problem and we now know in most case this is wrong.

You will find a couple of reasons why varicose veins can arrive back:

* Inadequate treatment techniques
* Inadequate assessment
* Consultants with limited knowledge within the field

We know that the only accurate way to assess varicoses is by performing a comprehensive colour duplex ultrasound investigation to map the undesireable veins and their problems.

The old way of assessing varicoses was just by looking at the leg and guessing the veins that had been the issue. The inadequacies of this are apparent in that the wrong vein had been frequently treated.

Now with colour Doppler ultrasound techniques, we can not only accurately map the veins beforehand showing the exact problems but we can also use ultrasound throughout the procedures to ensure correct therapy.

The therapy that was the preferred method a couple of years ago was stripping of the underlying undesireable veins that were causing the varicoses. We now know that there is a high chance of these undesireable veins growing back again. Undesireable veins are part from the connective tissue and, in a similar fashion towards the way a cut to the hand will heal, if you cut a vein the vein tries to heal.

Localised bleeding from the operation acts as a 'food' for the vein and so it re grows via the blood, known as revascularisation (re growth) or neovascularisation (new growth).


Varicoses were quiet often treated by non-specialised consultants or junior staff as they were perceived to become a minor issue and as this kind of the situation was not given the respect it deserved.

With new methods this kind of as endovenous laser ablation and radiofrequency treatments, consultants becoming more specialised in varicose veins remedies and also the advance of diagnostic imaging we are now seeing varicose undesireable veins do not come back if they are treated correctly.

"Standing for lengthy periods causes varicose veins"

The cause of varicoses and venous related conditions such as thrombophlebitis (clotting of the blood within the superficial veins), venous eczema and venous ulcers is the failure of the leg pump, with the pump not being able to pump the blood back again out of the leg.

The failure of the leg pump is predominantly down towards the failure of the valves inside the veins. It has been shown that by the age of 9, 1 in 20 girls has already lost their valves and by 18, 1 in 9.

Just simply because the valves have stopped working though does not mean to say that varicose undesireable veins are instantly eminent, as damage is caused over time towards the tissues. So individuals who stand for long periods aren't much more prone to varicose undesireable veins, but standing make the issue arrive to light sooner.

The only actual commonly known fact is that varicose veins have a familial trait; that is to say that they tend to 'run within the family'. This does not mean to say everyone who has the issue running in their family will go on to develop signs and symptoms. Also some people don't have visible varicose veins but have the symptoms of muscle pump failure such as:

* Leg swelling
* Leg Aching
* Itching legs
* Venous eczema
* Haemosidering (brown staining)
* Lipomatosclerosis (Hardening of the skin and tissue)
* Bleeding undesireable veins
* Leg Ulcers

Why we get varicose veins and who will develop them are questions that are not yet fully answered or understood. We only realize the traits and the tendencies, but with more study and improvements in techniques and investigations hopefully we can not just understand varicose undesireable veins more clearly but also treat them in the best feasible way.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Pain in the Legs Caused by Varicose Veins by Justin DiMateo

Varicose veins are found in both men and women. There's a common misconception that women suffer more than men, although some research and studies have indicated that men, in fact, are more affected by large varicose veins than women.

One reason for this misconception may be that some men are less likely than women to seek treatment for various health conditions, and some data collections are based on the number of patients with the condition that are examined by healthcare providers. The veins may even be more difficult to see on men than on women, as men tend wear long pants more than women, and have more hair their legs that may cover up the condition to an extent. While many believe that men and women are equally affected by varicose veins, there are still those who hold that women are more affected.

Many women are first affected by the venous condition during pregnancy. With the uterus growing, increased pressure is put on the inferior vena cava, which is the large vein on the right side of the body. As a result, this puts added pressure on the veins in the legs, which may lead to varicose veins. Many women, especially those who did not have vein problems before pregnancy, report that their varicose-veins improve after giving birth. If they don't improve, certain treatments may be helpful in providing relief.

Varicose veins appear as bulging and purplish and are considered very unsightly by many individuals. Physical symptoms of varicose-veins may include aching, a burning sensation, swollen ankles, charley horse and night cramps. Individuals suffering from this may also complain of pain after prolonged periods of sitting or standing.

Types of Veins Treatments Treatments may begin with the use of compression stockings and various home remedies such as elevating the legs, weight loss and exercise. If these methods are unsuccessful, other treatments or procedures may be used to bring relief. It is important to determine whether one is suffering from spider veins or varicose veins, as treatment may differ depending on the diagnosis. Some treatments are used for both conditions, while others are specific to either type of vein condition.

Endovenous laser ablation and VNUS Closure FAST are two types of treatments that utilize laser technology to close problem veins. Sclerotherapy may also be used to treat these painful veins, although it tends to be used for spider veins and smaller varicose veins.

Monday, April 26, 2010

10 Things You Really Need To Know about Spider Veins

1. Why are they called ‘spider veins'?

The medical name for spider veins is 'telangiectasias' – so enough said really. Most people find it a whole lot easier to call them spider veins or thread veins. Spider veins show up as a network of thin blue or red veins just below the skin's surface on the legs and face. The pattern made by spider veins resembles the branches of a tree or the structure of a spider's web - hence the name most of us use.

2. How common are spider veins?

Spider veins are extremely common affecting an amazing one in four women at some stage in their lives, and a slightly lower percentage of men.

3. When am I most likely to get them?

Although they can affect people at all stages of life, spider veins are more common after mid-life when the skin becomes thinner and loses some of its collagen allowing the spider veins to show through.

4. What causes spider veins?

Spider veins result from weak vein valves which cause blood to leak back into the vein and collect there. It is this leaked blood that becomes visible and unsightly to the naked eye.

No one knows the exact causes of spider veins but there are several factors that may make it more likely for you to develop them including: age, genes, pregnancy and hormonal changes, excess weight, standing or sitting for long periods and unprotected sun exposure. Of all these– your genes are the single most important determining factor. If your mum or dad had spider veins you are much more likely to develop them yourself.

5. Why are legs most affected?

The force of gravity, the pressure of bearing your body weight and the hard task of carrying blood from the bottom of the body up to the heart make legs the main area of risk for spider veins. Compared to the work done by other veins in the body, your leg veins have a really tough job to do to get the blood back up to your heart. Leg veins have to endure huge pressure and it can simply prove to be too strong for the valve mechanism to cope with.

6. Are they the same as varicose veins?

No – varicose veins are a completely different condition. Varicose vein sufferers do not necessarily get spider veins and vice versa.

7. Are spider veins dangerous?

No, spider veins are not dangerous. Of course, they can be a source of anxiety and may affect your quality of life and your self-confidence. At the very least they are unsightly and it is for this reason alone that so many women want to get rid of them.

8. Can spider veins be treated?

Yes, spider veins can be treated - nowadays with a high degree of success.

9. What's the best method of treating spider veins?

There are two main methods of treating spider veins. The first involves treatment with lasers in which strong bursts of light are used to destroy the blocked veins. The second treatment method is scelerotherapy which involves the injection of a solution into the veins causing the vein to seal shut and die. Both these methods involve visits to a clinic for treatment by a medical professional. Otherwise home remedies are available for the treatment of spider veins using creams and lotions which can be bought on the internet.

10. Will spider veins come back after treatment?

Current treatments for spider veins have a very high success rate although there is no guarantee that they won't return. Watching weight, eating a varied diet high in antioxidants and taking plenty of leg exercise can all help prevent any recurrence.

Friday, April 23, 2010

Bulging, Ugly Veins? What Can You Do? - by Kevin Agrawal

Are your veins reddish or bluish, threadlike veins that appear just below the surface of the skin. They can appear on any part of the body, hidden or conspicuous, but are often seen on legs. They are can cover a small or large patch of your body. Many times they are accompanied with a dull throbbing discomfort, burning sensation or heaviness in the legs. With or without discomfort, spider veins are unsightly blemishes on the skin. Since these types of unsightly bulging veins appear mostly in women due to hormonal changes, they can spoil the appearance of smooth, fine looking legs and cause them to look older or unattractive.

Whether bulging veins are a bothersome discomfort or just unattractive, or both, there are several practical steps you can take.
General Tips to Avoid Spider Veins!

  • Wear support hose. This helps to relieve the discomfort of bulging veins and also provide venous support so that bulging veins do not develop.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercise regularly to get the blood pumping through the circulatory system.
  • Put your legs up against a wall at a 90 degree angle to your torso for about 10 to 15 minutes a day. Or, try keeping your legs elevated on some extra pillows while you are sleeping at night.
  • Eat a high fiber diet to avoid constipation which puts pressure on veins. Constipation is often associated with painful bulging veins and more serious complications.
  • Wear low-heeled shoes. High-heeled shoes are believed to restrict the proper circulation of blood in the legs.
  • Protect your face from the sun by using a sunscreen. Bulging, visible facial veins, especially in very fair-skinned people, could be caused by too much exposure to the sun.
  • Avoid wearing tight-fighting clothes that could restrict circulation to your legs, tight jeans or girdles are good examples.
  • Avoid crossing your legs if you have to sit for long hours.
  • If your job requires you to stand or sit for a long periods, take a 15-minute break every 2 to 3 hours.
Clinical and Surgical Choices
  • Sclerotherapy. This is the most popular vein therapy for treating unwanted bulging veins. In this procedure, a tiny needle is injected into each vein and a chemical is released which either closes up the vein or makes it collapse. Appearance of spider veins usually is unnoticeable after a month. This procedure has a 50 to 90 percent chance of obliterating veins.
  • Laser Surgery. This procedure involves sending light pulses into the vein which closes the vein. Multiple sittings are required. More intricate surgical methods are used for large veins.
  • Endovenous methods involving radiofrequency and laser ablation are used to treat deep veins. The energy produced heats up the blood vessel, shrinks it and causes it to close.
Nutritional Supplements

The foods we eat have a direct bearing on our health. There are certain foods which help certain functions of the body. For vein health, include plenty of berries in your diet. All kinds of brightly-colored berries have bioflavonoids containing antioxidant potency. Antioxidants help to keep blood vessels strong. Citrus fruits contain Vitamin C. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant and plays a role in the healthy circulation of blood. Green vegetables help to strengthen the walls of blood vessels and support venous health.
In addition, several nutrients and herbs have been well-researched and have been traditionally used for supporting venous health:
  • Diosmin - an antioxidant which supports the elasticity of veins.
  • Hesperidin - an antioxidant in citrus fruits which helps to support healthy blood circulation.
  • Horse Chestnuts - support blood circulation especially in the lower legs
  • Gotu Kola - supports the production of collagen and elastin especially the one-way valves in the inner walls of blood vessels
  • Butcher's Broom - supports the healthy circulation of blood in the system
Vein supplements like Vein Matrix, are well-formulated to support vein health. Taken regularly it can help support the healthy circulation of blood and healthy blood vessels. It basically provides nutritional support to help keep your legs looking healthy and beautiful!

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Pathogenesis of Varicosity - by bcured

Chronic venous disease of the lower limbs is one of the most common medical conditions seen in clinical practice. There is some disagreement over the actual prevalence of chronic venous insufficiency due to the lack of a standardized definition. There have been several large epidemiological studies with varied criteria for venous disease. Amazingly, approximately 50% of middle aged adults have varicose veins. Definitions range from "any prominent superficial vein in the lower extremity" to "a vein which has permanently lost its valvular efficiency and, as a result of continuous dilation under pressure, in the course of time becomes elongated, tortuous, pouched and thickened." Specialists assessed all of the studies with regard to age range and distribution of study population, criteria used to diagnose varicose veins, geographical site of the study population and methods used to assess venous disease. They reported half of the adult population manifesting minor venous disease, and less than half (women 20-25%; men 10-15%) having visible varicose veins. The pathogenesis of varicose veins is thought to include increased venous and capillary pressures, increased capillary permeability, chronic edema, repeated inflammation, and stasis. Some of the risk factors associated with developing varicose veins are obesity, high systolic blood pressure, cigarette smoking, low levels of physical activity, pregnancy, abdominal or pelvic masses, ascites, and occupations that require prolonged standing. Patients will often self-diagnose varicose veins and present to the physician with elongated, dilated, tortuous superficial veins (usually in the legs) whose valves have become incompetent. Patients may experience aching, fatigue, or heat that is relieved by elevation or wearing compressive hosiery. Symptoms are not always related to the degree or size of the varicose veins. Patients who present with asymptomatic varicosities often seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. Primary varicose veins are not associated with deep venous disease, and treatment is indicated to relieve symptoms and improve appearance. Treatment is particularly valuable to clear excessive discharge or accumulation of fluid in venous tissue. However, treatment is rarely required to prevent further complications. Varicosities that occur secondary to obstruction and valvular incompetence of the deep venous system are much more serious because of the associated risk of pulmonary thromboembolism. Physicians evaluating a patient for presumed varicose veins must rule out other possible causes for the presenting symptoms: lumbar nerve root irritation can cause an aching sensation in the leg; peripheral neuritis causes a burning sensation in the leg; and arterial insufficiency may present with intermittent claudication. A deep vein thromboembolism can present with calf pain, and patients on estrogen have an increased risk. Osteoarthritis of the hip and knee are also considerations in the differential diagnosis of varicose veins. The pain associated with varicose veins is uniquely relieved with leg elevation. Before modern pharmaceutical drugs were introduced in the 1930s, physicians in the United States have long been providing extracts from plants to their patients. Over the years, medical professionals and the general public have been showing greater interest in the development of plant medicines. And here at Nature's Pharma, our goal is to provide as much information as possible on the plant-based medicinal products. VenousBalm-Rx and VenousDrops are new topical and oral remedies to treat varicose and spider veins. They are characterized by very strong and real pharmacological activities which unequivocally qualify them as "ethical drugs". The effectiveness of these treatments is undisputed. These treatments are concentrated with a wide spectrum of medicinal plant extracts exhibiting curative effects against varicose veins, as published by the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. For those seeking an end to varicose veins and related conditions, these products deliver the goods. VenousBalm-Rx and VenousDrops are established to not only reverse conditions stemming from venous insufficiency, but also improve the overall tone of the veins. These are true venous blood decongestants and used to negate venous blood stagnation which causes varicose veins and venous insufficiency. The astringent properties of these treatments provide a tightening effect to skin tissue. Here at Nature's Pharma, we are proud to have developed a top-quality selection of medicinal products designed to address a variety of illnesses. Our products are based on advancements made in medicinal plants as they apply to virology, immunology, and dermatology.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Medical Tourism -Low Cost Sclerotherapy-Varicose-Veins-Surgery In India - by Pankaj S. Nagpal

Sclerotherapy - Varicose - Veins - Surgery In India



Sclerotherapy is a treatment that involves injecting a solution into unwanted varicose or spider veins. These veins may appear on the legs or may be hidden under the skin and fat. The unwanted blood vessels are red or bluish in colour and are a common problem..



Causes of varicose and spider veins


The cause of varicose and spider veins is not known. However, in many cases, they run in families. Women seem to develop this problem more often than men. Changes in oestrogen levels in the blood may have a role in the development of varicose veins...



Other factors that may contribute include : -


* Standing or sitting for long periods
* Being immobile for long periods (for example, being confined to bed)
* Lack of exercise
* Obesity...



How sclerotherapy works


The solution,which is injected into the vein, is called a sclerosant. It causes the vein to close by irritating the blood vessel so that it swells and sticks together. This process causes the veins to fade and eventually they can no longer be seen. Some vessels will have vanished by the time the support stockings are removed...



Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy


Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy (UGS) uses ultrasound to locate the underlying leaking veins and aims to seal off the leakage points. The leakage could come from small 'perforating veins' that are usually below the knees, or main valves behind the knees or in the groin...



UGS is best for people with : -


* Very large varicose veins
* Leg ulcers
* Skin conditions (such as pigmentation or eczema)...



Vain and the procedure


The injection uses a fine needle that causes a barely noticeable pinprick feeling. Some people experience a slight to moderate burning feeling immediately after the injection, but this disappears after a few seconds. ..



Possible side effects


Possible side effects of sclerotherapy include : -


* Bruising : - usually at the site of the injection. This will disappear in a few weeks.


* Brown lines or spots : - these may appear on the skin at the site of the injected blood vessels. This can occur when blood escapes from the treated vein into the skin. ...



Possible causes of inflammation


Inflammation (phlebitis) and blood clots can be caused if : -


* No compression has been applied.
* The applied compression has not been enough.
* You are on the contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy.
* There is an underlying tendency to clotting. ..



Minimising the risk of varicose and spider veins


The following suggestions may help to prevent varicose and spider veins : -


* Wear support stockings.
* Maintain good weight control.
* Get regular exercise. ..



Things to remember


* Sclerotherapy is the injection of a solution into varicose or spider veins
* Most people can expect an improvement in the appearance of treated veins.
* Side effects of sclerotherapy may include bruising, swelling or brown lines or spots...

Friday, April 16, 2010

Causes And Prevention Of Spider Veins - by Ben Pate

Spider veins are just one of the many unfortunate results of getting older. These little clusters of veins are often visible on the thighs, around your ankles and behind your knees. Fortunately this medical condition has no affect to your health other than its physical appearance.

It's comforting to know that there is no serious problem, but this doesn't ease the way that you feel about your appearance. There are many misconceptions about how spider veins are formed, such as wearing tight garters or boots all of the time. None of these are causes of spider veins.

We all know the importance of eating the right foods, and exercising but so many of us begin worrying about it when our bodies begin changing. It's never too late to begin improving your health. You can do a little research online to learn more about implementing a good diet plan and exercise program into your life.

The cause of this condition is still undetermined. While there is no exact cause of this medical condition it is believed to be due to poor blood circulation and excess pressure on your legs as a result of being overweight.

You can prevent spider veins and varicose veins by maintaining a healthy life - eating well and increasing the blood flow through exercise. Some other methods of prevention include avoiding excessive heat on your legs, moving your legs frequently if your job involves prolonged sitting or standing. You can learn more about simple movements to improve the blood flow during long hours of sitting or standing.

Since prevention isn't always the answer, you need to find the best alternative to hide them. There are various methods. It's important that you learn more about the various spider vein treatments before choosing the first one. It would be best if you first read up online about the various treatments and then discuss them with a medical professional. This will help you to make the best decision for you.

The first method is laser treatments. This is among the most popular treatment. It's a simple procedure that will involve small bursts of light that will destroy the blocked veins. The second is electrical treatment. The electrical treatment will coagulate the blood. You may require a series of treatments depending on how long you have had them. Another form of treatment is chemical injections, called scelerotherapy.

One of the downsides of any one of these various treatments is that there is a risk that the spider veins will return. The only way to prevent this from happening is to change the way that you live your life. Begin eating healthier foods, and adding in some type of exercise program especially leg exercises. It's extremely important that you promote good blood flow. When most people think of exercise their first thought is the gym, but it can be as simple as a daily walk, a simple run and some laps in the pool. There are many additional benefits to exercise to your overall health.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Cosmetic Treatment Options for Spider and Varicose Veins - by Phillip Stone

Below are some common treatments for spider veins and varicose veins.

Sclerotherapy

This is the most common treatment for varicose veins and spider veins. A solution is injected into the vein. The solution causes the vein walls to increase in size and, eventually, stick together and seal shut. Blood stops flowing to the vein, and the vein turns to scar tissue. The vein disappears in a few weeks. This is a very effective treatment overall. It is performed in a doctor's office and does not require anesthesia. After treatment, the patient may experience pain at the site of the treatment, and small sores and bruises may appear at the injection site.

Surgical Ligation & Stripping

An incision is made on the skin at the site of the varicose vein. The vein is tied up and removed from the leg. General anesthesia or local anesthesia in conjunction with a sedative may be used. The treatment is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Large veins can be removed with this method. Severe side effects are very uncommon, but it is likely that the patient will feel some pain for a couple of weeks.

Laser Surgery

A laser is placed on the skin surface and aimed at the varicose vein. An intense stream of light is sent through the skin to the vein. This causes the vein to fade and eventually disappear. This treatment is effective only on small veins, and several treatments may be required for best results. There are no incisions made in the skin. There may be pain from the heat of the laser when and where it goes through the skin, but there is no recovery time after the treatment.

Endovenous Surgery

A small catheter is inserted through the skin into the vein. A concentrated burst of energy, either laser or radiofrequency energy, is sent through the catheter into the vein. The energy shrinks and seals the walls of the vein which stops the flow of blood to the vein. Deep, large veins can be treated with this method. It can be done in a doctor's office. There may be some pain and bruising at the sight where the catheter is inserted.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

A tiny incision is made in the skin. Surgical hooks are inserted through the incision. The hooks pull out the vein. One treatment removes the varicose vein. Only local or regional anesthesia is necessary. The patient is out of work for one day. This procedure effectively removes large veins through a small incision. There may be slight, but temporary, bruising and numbness in the area treated.

Other Natural Remedies

There are many natural remedies that are believed to improve or eliminate varicose veins and spider veins. Some of the natural remedies are exercise techniques, massage therapy, and treatment with herbal supplement either taken orally or applied as a compress to the affected area.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Varicosities and its concerned fears haunt the modern man - by Christina Lobo

Varicose Veins are haunting the urban man, more often than any other disease now-a-days. Being overweight and less of exercise does contribute to the many diseases that are surfacing among the urban population. But the urban man might prefer diabetes and hypertension to some extent but not Varicose veins. And being over-conscious about their cosmetic appearance, makes Varicose veins the most detested disease by all. Let us discuss and understand why varicose veins are nightmares for the modern man. Varicose veins and telangiectasia (spider veins) are the visible surface manifestations of an underlying problem with reverse venous flow, which is also termed venous insufficiency syndrome. Venous insufficiency syndromes describe venous blood deviating from a normal flow path and flow in a retrograde direction so that fluid accumulates, causing a "congested" leg. Mild forms of venous insufficiency are merely uncomfortable, annoying, or cosmetically disfiguring, but severe venous disease can produce serious systemic consequences and can lead to loss of life or limb. Researchers have found out that Females are more prone to varicosities than males at any age, because of fluctuating hormonal factors. Most patients with venous insufficiency have subjective symptoms that may include pain, soreness, burning, aching, throbbing, cramping, muscle fatigue, and restless legs. Over time, chronic venous insufficiency leads to cutaneous and soft tissue breakdown that can be debilitating. Chronic venous insufficiency eventually produces chronic skin and soft tissue changes that begin with mild swelling and then progress to include discoloration, inflammatory dermatitis, recurrent or chronic cellulitis, cutaneous infarction, ulceration, and even malignant degeneration.

Chronic non-healing leg ulcers, bleeding from varicose veins and recurrent phlebitis are serious problems that are caused by venous insufficiency and can be relieved by the correction of venous insufficiency.

The symptoms of Varicosities do appear gradually, and it is better that you notice them at an early stage. Most varicose and spider veins in adults have their genesis in childhood. Serial examinations of children aged 10-12 years and again 4 and 8 years later showed that symptoms are experienced (and venous test results are abnormal) before any abnormal veins are visible at the surface of the skin.

When abnormal veins do become visible, reticular veins usually appear first and are followed after several years by incompetent perforators. Smaller telangiectatic webs and large varicose veins usually become visible only in adulthood, many years after the true onset of disease. Although varicosities continue to worsen and to recruit new areas of involvement throughout life, only a small number of new cases appear after the childbearing years.

Dr. Arlen G. Fleisher is Board-certified in Cardiothoracic Surgery and in Phlebology (the study and treatment of varicose and spider veins). He is an expert in his field and offers state-of-the-art and most minimally invasive techniques. All procedures are performed in his contemporary office suite, located in Hartsdale, New York, and involve minimal pain, discomfort and downtime with optimal results for his patients. He offers free vein screenings by appointment. One of the state-of-art Vein Treatment Centers in Westchester, Premier Vein Centers is run and operated by Dr. Fleisher.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Varicoses Veins,Symptoms and Treatments - by harryjackson9

An effective treatment for varicose veins is through compression. There is no known cure for this condition, but wearing compression stockings is very helpful in alleviating symptoms, including soreness, swelling, and bulging, and improving blood flow in the legs. The benefits of using these types of socks are that they are cost-effective and are not an invasive method, like surgery. They can also help to stop the condition of the veins from worsening.

There are two endovenous procedures that can be used to remove severe varicose veins in the legs or thighs. These techniques are less invasive than vein stripping and do not require an overnight stay. Both procedures require the insertion of a device inside the varicose vein. The endovenous radio frequency closure procedure uses a catheter to transmit radio frequency energy to seal the varicose vein. The endovenous laser procedure uses a diode laser to transmit laser energy to seal the varicose vein. In both cases, the varicose vein will turn into scar tissue and eventually fade away in several weeks. After either procedure, a person could resume his or her normal routine the very next day.

Most people suffering from varicose veins seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, but varicose veins are often more than just a cosmetic problem. Varicose veins are very painful at times and will itch, sometimes resulting in ulcers in the most extreme cases. In general, most people only relate varicose veins to the legs, but in all actuality they can occur anywhere on the body. Spider veins are enlarged veins that are no longer preventing blood from flowing in reverse. They can be different colors under the skin like blue, purple, or a pinkish red. Sometimes they are not chronic but related to pregnancy in women when spider veins form in the birthing region.

For a stressed person, varicose veins symptoms cannot be easily detected because stress makes him or her feel that every muscle in his or her body is in pain. However, try to be careful if you are experiencing cramps in a certain region of your body, especially in the legs. If too much pressure is given to your legs, it will cause not only muscle pains but also gradual appearance of varicose veins. These instances frequently happen when a woman gets pregnant. Veins in the lower parts of the body tend to bring the blood upwards, but the pressure goes downward, and this complicates things; thus causing the appearance of these veins.

Symptoms

For a stressed person, varicose veins symptoms cannot be easily detected because stress makes him or her feel that every muscle in his or her body is in pain. However, try to be careful if you are experiencing cramps in a certain region of your body, especially in the legs. If too much pressure is given to your legs, it will cause not only muscle pains but also gradual appearance of varicose veins. These instances frequently happen when a woman gets pregnant. Veins in the lower parts of the body tend to bring the blood upwards, but the pressure goes downward, and this complicates things; thus causing the appearance of these veins.

Having twisted purple linings on your body depends on how you perceive or treat it. If you are not the aesthetically and health conscious type, you could easily let go of the topic, but if you are at the other end of the personality line, then you would probably be in search of many answers about spider veins symptoms. Some may only be concerned by inner health when cramps overtake their bodies and do not give a damn about superficial consequences. On the other hand, there are others who will do anything, even surgery, just to get rid of these varicose veins. What you do really depends on how you see the situation.

They form when valves in the veins that are supposed to direct blood flow towards your heart stop working correctly and, as a result, blood pools in the veins - causing them to enlarge. Normally these one-way valves work against gravity to direct blood towards the heart. When they become weakened or damaged and don't close properly the blood may start to flow backward - this is known as Venous Insufficiency or Venous Reflux. When veins near the surface of your skin can't handle the excess blood and pressure they engorge and turn into varicose veins.

Treatments

Veins naturally have a valve function that keeps blood from flowing the wrong way. When the vein walls weaken this valve may cease to function properly and allow some backflow in the blood. In this way the veins could become gorged and the flow of blood would slow and cause the veins to expand and appear along the surface of the skin.

While anyone may get veins, women who are pregnant or overweight are much more susceptible to getting them. This is due to the nature of the blood flow and the pressure that they put on their veins and their circulatory system. Overweight individuals or those who are often standing for long periods of time are also more susceptible to varicose veins.

Friday, April 2, 2010

6 No Cost Tips to Prevent Spider Veins - by Sutiyo Na

The best cure against any disease regardless if it is minor or major is prevention because you can save time and money. Here are some tips you can do to prevent spider veins from developing on your legs.

High fiber diet. It will also help if you consume food that is high on fiber. Such as vegetables, fresh fruit, bran and other kinds of whole grains. The reason for a high fiber diet is to avoid constipation - based on the fact that constipation leads to the formation of spider veins.

Control of salt intake. You must also make sure that you regulate the amount of salt that you get inside your system. Too much sodium in your body can lead to swelling that may lead to the development of the veins.

Exercise regularly. Take exercise regularly like walking, jogging, running, climbing and swimming as such activities will really help to improve blood circulation and lessen pooling and pressure in the veins. Eventually will help your veins to become strong.

Elevate your legs whenever possible. You can surely do this when you get home from school or work. The ideal angle of your feet should be higher than heart level so blood will be able to circulate all over the Body. You can elevate them a bit until you feel that part of your body rejuvenated.

Be mindful of what you wear. Avoid wearing clothes that constrict the different body parts such as legs, the waist and groins. Ensure that you wear clothes that are comfortable

Do not stand or sit down for along time. Because such activity will cause blood pooling and pressure in the veins. But if you have to do this, take an activity to regulate your blood circulation such as brisk walk. This can be done every 30 minutes or so.

When you are mindful about how to prevent the spider veins, you may never have to worry about finding the suitable spider vein treatment. And you do not need to spend your time and money.