Spider veins can be blue, purple, or red and may appear in the form of thin lines, webs, or branches. People sometimes also refer to them as thread veins.
A range of treatments can remove spider veins or reduce their appearance.
In this article, we discuss the causes of spider veins and how they differ from varicose veins. We also cover the treatment and prevention of spider veins.
Causes
In the legs, spider veins can occur when the valves inside the veins stop working properly.
Veins carry blood back to the heart. To prevent blood from flowing backward, they contain a one-way valve that closes once the blood passes through it.
If this valve weakens or becomes damaged, the blood may struggle to flow in the correct direction, and it can begin to pool inside the vein. Over time, this can cause a bulge in the vein that branches out, resulting in spider veins.
Spider veins on the face are often the result of tiny blood vessels bursting. Increased pressure or sun damage can cause this to occur.
Spider veins
Spider veins
Varicose veins
Varicose veins
Spider veins and varicose veins are different forms of a medical condition called venous insufficiency. In the legs, both conditions result from having weakened or damaged valves in the veins. However, the two issues have different symptoms.
Spider veins are usually small, thin lines that may be flat or only slightly raised. They are often blue, red, or purple. Although they can cause some discomfort, they are painless most of the time.
Varicose veins are larger and deeper than spider veins. They may also appear lumpy or twisted and are usually flesh-colored or red.
Depending on their severity, varicose veins can cause a variety of symptoms. These may include:
- pain
- itching
- bleeding
- swelling of the legs or ankles
- an achy or heavy feeling in the legs
Varicose veins may also increase a person’s risk of blood clots and circulation problems.
Wearing compression stockings or socks places pressure on the veins in the lower legs. This pressure can help improve blood flow and prevent further spider or varicose veins. Compression stockings may also help relieve leg swelling and lower the risk of blood clots in the legs.
Types of compression stocking include:
- Support pantyhose: These provide only light pressure but are available in many stores. It is also possible to buy a range of support pantyhose online.
- Gradient compression stockings and socks: These provide medium pressure around the feet, ankles, and calves. They are often available from specialist stores and pharmacies. A range of gradient compression stockings and socks is also available to purchase online.
- Prescription compression stockings: These provide the most pressure to the feet and legs. They are only available on prescription and come in various sizes and strengths as well as footless varieties. Prescription compression stockings are not suitable for some people, including those who have heart failure or other heart problems.
Certain lifestyle changes and self-care tips can help prevent new spider veins appearing or stop existing ones from getting worse. These include:
- Wearing sunscreen. Applying sunscreen every day can help prevent some spider veins, particularly on the face. Use sun-protective hats and clothing when outdoors for extended periods.
- Maintaining a healthy weight. This helps reduce pressure on the veins and keeps blood flowing well.
- Wearing compression stockings. If spider veins or varicose veins are a concern or run in the family, considering using compression stockings or socks.
- Staying mobile. Avoid sitting or standing for extended periods without taking a break. Get up and walk around every 30 minutes.
- Avoiding tight clothing. Clothing that is too tight around the waist, legs, or pelvis can restrict blood flow and may increase the risk of spider veins.
- Avoiding the overuse of hot tubs and saunas. Excessive heat can cause veins to swell, increasing the risk of dilated and bulging veins in the legs.
- Limiting alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol can cause flushing in the face and broken blood vessels in some people.
- Getting regular exercise. Physical activity can help improve circulation and prevent blood from pooling in the legs.
- Elevating the legs. Raising the legs when sitting or lying down can help prevent blood from pooling downward in the legs.
- Seeing a dermatologist. People with skin conditions that can increase the risk of spider veins, such as rosacea, may want to consider seeing a doctor or dermatologist to discuss treatment options.
- Using cover-up products. If the appearance of spider veins is a concern, people can often use body or leg makeup to mask or minimize them temporarily. Self-tanning products can also work for this purpose.
Summary
Spider veins result from damaged veins or burst blood vessels. They are typically painless and do not cause health problems, but some people may wish to treat them for cosmetic reasons.
A variety of treatment options can help improve the appearance of spider veins or remove them altogether. For medical procedures, it is always essential to consult a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in dermatology, vein care, or cosmetic or plastic surgery.
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