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<< Back to Cosmetic Services Spiders and Varicose Veins
The Truth about Varicose and Spider Veins
Recent studies and research have shown that the vast majority of
varicose veins and even the smaller, blue or red spider vessels
known as telangiectasias are caused by a back flow of blood known
as reflux.
Even though the problem you see may appear to exist on the surface, very often there are "feeder vessels" underneath that must be treated for best results.
The Basics
There are three venous circulations in the legs:
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The deep system, where DVT's (serious blood clots) originate
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The superficial system – what we usually see and are concerned
about, either cosmetically or, if reflux is severe, that cause achy,
painful, and swollen legs
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The perforators – vessels that connect the deep and superficial
systems
Blood flow is supposed to move in only one direction:
The Cause
Although there are many possible causes, the most common include:
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heredity
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pregnancy
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certain hormones
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obesity
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being female!
The Problem
When a valve is incompetent, there is a backflow. (You'll see the backflow circled on the diagram, to the right.)
Because the superficial system was never designed for this greater
volume of blood under higher pressure, it swells. The swelling can
cause other valves to leak, often worsening the situation. The increased
pressure and flow causes the formation of smaller vessels, commonly called spider
veins... or "telangiectasias."
The Key to Effective Treatment
For the best chance of long-lasting
results, the highest point of reflux must be located and treated first,
along with other areas. This usually begins with closure of the
largest varicose veins, or "sclerotherapy" for the hidden or feeder
vessels, followed by superficial sclerotherapy and/or laser or light
treatments for the more smaller, more visible vessels and spider veins.
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