Day: March 10, 2018

Vein conditions for which patients seek treatment generally fall into two categories – those that require treatment to facilitate circulatory function for medical reasons and those that are primarily cosmetic.

Varicose veins are very common and fall into the first category. They result when veins fail to circulate blood properly, pooling blood beneath the surface. For some patients, serious health problems may be present or may develop as a result of this venous insufficiency.

Reticular veins are, smaller dark veins that form bluish networks (reticular is Latin for network) crisscrossing the thighs and lower legs. Treating them can help eliminate spider veins, as they are generally the larger source. Reticular veins are often accompanied by significant symptoms of local tenderness, burning or itching, that improves with treatment.

Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that have a red or bluish color. The threadlike veins lie close to the surface of the skin and may present a web-like formation. Spider veins occur mostly on the legs, but occasionally on the face or other areas. Spider veins are not critical to circulatory function and can be safely removed to dramatically improve appearance. Spider veins are, for the most part, a cosmetic concern. But for some, treatment of spider veins can alleviate symptoms of restless legs, aching, burning or cramping.

Unsightly veins on the backs of the hands are likely the result of aging, and are not usually unhealthy. However, they can be removed for cosmetic reasons with very little discomfort.

Dr. Pittman enlists a variety of methods to diagnose treat vein conditions, including surface sclerotherapy ultrasound guided foamed sclerotherapy, vein ablation, micro phlebectomy, Vena Seal and laser treatments.

Vein treatments are performed at our Salem location by Rick Pittman, MD, board certified in venous and lymphatic medicine. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 503-362-8385.