Dr. Nicole Williams of The Gynecology Institute of Chicago visited Fox News Chicago studios for a chat with noontime anchor Corey McPherrin. The topic of the day was varicose and spider veins.
Varicose veins occur when the valves that help lead blood back to the heart fail, resulting in bluish or purplish veins that can be quite unsightly. In addition, very severe vein disease may be indicative of a deeper problem best evaluated by a physician.
Spider veins are similar to varicose veins except they occur in the smaller capillaries, resulting in a branching spider web like pattern. They are generally not dangerous, but can be cosmetically unappealing.
The most common treatment for spider and varicose veins is sclerotherapy, the injection of a chemical compound which causes the vein to shut down. Other veins will take over for the defective ones. A more advanced treatment is endovenous laser or radiotherapy.
Ways to prevent varicose and spider veins include reducing salt intake, not crossing the legs, and avoiding prolonged standing. Support hose can also help to prevent these unsightly veins.
See the video HERE.