VARICOSE VEINS

Varicose veins are bulging veins that become enlarged when they fail to circulate blood properly. Spider veins are smaller thread-like or "starburst" vessels that appear on the surface of the skin.

They can occur in men and women of any age but are most common in women of childbearing age and older. A family history of the problem and aging increase one's chance of developing varicose or spider veins.Doctors treat varicose veins with a variety of methods. They can surgically remove them or inject them with a solution.

The Bureau of Consumer Protection of the Federal Trade Commission offers these suggestions if you're considering treatment for your varicose or spider veins.

- Keep in mind that varicose or spider veins may recur following treatment by any known method. New varicose or spider veins may appear, too.

- Before deciding on a method of treatment or whether to have any treatment at all, carefully question your doctor about the cosmetic side effects and health risks for each type of treatment.

- Be wary of claims that promise "permanent results," "unique treatments," "painless" or "absolutely safe" treatments.

The causes of varicose and spider veins are not entirely understood, according to the American Venous Forum. In some cases, the absence or weakness of valves in the veins, which prevent the backward flow of blood away from the heart, may cause poor circulation. In other cases, weaknesses in the vein walls may cause the pooling of the blood. Less commonly, varicose veins are caused by diseases such as phlebitis or congenital abnormalities of the veins. In some cases wearing support hose and maintaining normal weight and regular exercise may be beneficial.

Treatment is not always necessary, says the Forum. In most cases varicose and spider veins are primarily a cosmetic problem. Severe cases require treatment.

One type of treatment for varicose veins is to surgically remove them. Blood then flows through the remaining healthy veins. This is commonly referred to as "stripping." It is done under a local or partial anesthesia. The doctor passes a flexible device through the vein and removes it through an incision near the groin. Veins that connect to deeper veins are tied off.

"Sclerotherapy" uses a fine needle to inject a solution directly into the vein, causing it to swell and the blood to clot. The vein turns into scar tissue and fades from view.

Side effects of sclerotherpy may depend on the substance used in the injection. For instance, Sotradecol may cause an allergic reaction in some people while hypertonic saline solution is unlikely to cause a reaction. Either substance, however, may burn the skin if the needle isn't inserted propertly, or may permanently mark or stain the skin.