Spider veins, scientifically known as Telangiectasia, refer to tiny veins, about 1mm to 2mm thick, that are blue, red, or purple. They typically appear on the legs and thighs, although they could also appear on the face, neck, and arms.
In expectant women, spider veins may also appear on the tummy. You may need a spider veins New York diagnosis from a qualified doctor to learn how to manage them. Keep reading to find out more about spider veins in pregnancy.
Your Pregnancy May be The Cause of Spider Veins
During pregnancy, your blood levels increase by up to 50%. This considerable increase in blood volume can place increased pressure on your blood vessels, often leading to swollen limbs.
The extra blood sometimes weakens one-way valves, forcing blood to flow backward into the veins and remain there. The excess blood then increases the pressure in the veins, causing them to raise to the surface where they can be seen as blue, red, or purple spider veins. This explains why pregnancy increases the chances of developing spider veins.
They Pose Little Risk to Your Health
You may panic when you see spider veins, but these veins are rarely cause for medical alarm. Typical spider veins are painless and have no other symptoms. They are much milder than varicose veins, which can be itchy and painful.
The biggest issue with spider veins is their appearance, which can be patterned or isolated. Often, treatment for spider veins is purely for aesthetic purposes. For most women, these veins tend to disappear after pregnancy.
However, in rare cases, spider veins can be uncomfortable and itchy. If you experience such symptoms, it is best to raise your concerns with your doctor.
They Are Treatable
Spider veins can cause mental chagrin, especially if they appear on a conspicuous part of your body, like your arms or legs. Fortunately, they are easily treatable through non-invasive procedures.
The first treatment option for spider veins is sclerotherapy. In this procedure, the doctor injects chemical irritants into the affected area, sealing off the veins, which die off and are gradually absorbed by the body. With time, the veins disappear or become hardly visible.
Sclerotherapy is a relatively simple procedure with a short recovery period. In fact, you should be able to resume normal activities soon after the procedure.
The second treatment option is laser treatment, which entails exposing the affected veins to superheat, thus collapsing and sealing them. You will need at least three laser sessions to ensure the veins disappear entirely.
They Are Preventable
You can lower your chances of developing spider veins by making lifestyle adjustments. For instance, exercising regularly promotes healthy blood circulation, which can prevent the development of spider veins. Exercising also allows you to maintain a healthy pregnancy weight which is fantastic for your circulatory system.
Secondly, elevating your legs makes blood flow back to your heart easier, minimizing the risk of developing spider veins. If you have to stand for long, include regular breaks to avoid straining your blood flow.
You should also avoid taking long, hot baths during pregnancy as they can lead to the development of spider veins.
You May Need to Talk To Your Doctor
Although spider veins are generally not a severe medical condition, you need to talk to your doctor if you notice changes in their appearance. For instance, if the veins become swollen or red, you might have a burst vein that needs medical attention.
Spider veins, though conspicuous, are typically not cause for concern. However, if you want to eliminate them, you may undergo laser treatment or sclerotherapy minishortner to seal them shut. You can also prevent these veins by exercising regularly, elevating your legs, and avoiding long, hot baths. Finally, be sure to talk to your doctor if you notice changes in the appearance of the spider veins.
