Many spider veins occur spontaneously but they may occur more frequently in individuals who are obese, pregnant or have an occupation where they stand for long periods.
There are two basic treatments for spider veins including sclerotherapy and laser. Today, the availability of newer lasers is the treatment of choice for spider veins. The lasers can be used on any part body to treat spider veins.
The procedure is done in a clinic as an outpatient and does not entail the use of injections or incisions. Laser is much faster than sclerotherapy and has little downtime. Most individuals require multiple sessions to get rid of all the spider veins. The laser works by heating up the small veins so that they can no longer carry any blood inside them.
However, one should know that even after laser treatment, spider veins can recur in the future.
After treatment, the most common side effect is mild redness which usually resolves in 2-3 hours. The results of laser treatment become obvious after a few weeks.