Spider veins are small damaged blood vessels near the skin’s surface. Also known as telangiectasia or thread veins, these clusters of tiny veins are different from varicose veins, but they can lead to similar symptoms.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of spider veins can help you decide when to see a vein specialist for an evaluation.
What Are Spider Veins (Telangiectasia)?
Spider veins (Telangiectasia) are superficial veins in the fatty layer directly beneath the skin. They send blood to the deep veins, which pump over 90% of the blood in the legs toward the heart.
Like the deep veins, these small blood vessels have one-way valves consisting of two flaps that open and close. The valves are responsible for allowing blood to move in one direction — in the case of spider veins, blood flows toward the deep veins via a series of feeder veins.
When the valves in these superficial veins become damaged or weakened, they don’t close properly, allowing blood to flow backward. This backflow puts pressure on the walls of the blood vessels, causing them to bulge and branch out — and creating tree-like branches of veins visible just beneath the skin.
Spider Veins Causes
Malfunctioning valves are the underlying cause of spider veins.
Watch the video below and learn more about spider veins and their symptoms.
Spider Vein (Telangiectasia) Symptoms
Telangiectasias or spider veins don’t usually cause physical symptoms and are primarily an aesthetic concern. Some people do, however, experience spider vein symptoms.
Use the guide below to recognize the signs of spider veins:
Spider Veins: Symptoms and Signs |
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Appearance |
Bright red, purple, or blue; appear as webs of small veins that can look similar to spider webs or tree branches |
Location |
Most common on the legs, ankles, and face |
Severity |
Usually only cosmetic, although symptoms may be present if spider veins are a sign of vein disease |
Discomfort |
May cause discomfort, such as burning, leg cramps, or itching |
If you are uncomfortable with the appearance of spider veins, our vein specialists offer minimally invasive spider vein treatments.
Who Is at Risk for Developing Spider Veins?
Spider veins are a common vein issue that affects men and women. One study found that 88% of women and 79% of men had spider veins.
Certain factors can increase your risk.
- Age: Spider veins usually start developing between the ages of 30 and 50 and are most common in adults over 50.
- Being overweight: Excess weight puts more pressure on vein walls, which can damage valves.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, blood volume increases, which can expand veins. Hormonal changes during pregnancy may also play a role in developing spider veins.
- Family history: About 90% of people with spider veins have a family history.
- Sitting or standing for long periods: The more sedentary you are, the more likely you are to develop vein issues like spider veins.
About one in five people with spider veins also have venous insufficiency, which can lead to varicose veins and uncomfortable vein symptoms, including the following:
- Throbbing, aching legs
- Swelling
- Restless legs
- Leg cramps
- Venous ulcers
If you have spider veins and noticeable symptoms of vein disease, it’s important to see a vein specialist. An experienced doctor can evaluate your veins, determine if you’re at risk for more serious issues like blood clots, and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Spider Vein Treatment at USA Vein Clinics
Spider veins are small, web-like veins visible just below the surface of the skin, most commonly appearing on the legs and face. While they typically aren’t medically harmful, they can cause discomfort and self-consciousness for many people. At USA Vein Clinics, we offer advanced, minimally invasive spider vein treatments like sclerotherapy designed to safely and effectively reduce the appearance of these vessels and improve your confidence and comfort.
Personalized Evaluation & Care
Every spider vein treatment journey at USA Vein Clinics begins with a comprehensive evaluation by one of our expert vein specialists. Our team includes some of the best vein doctors in the field, ensuring that your treatment plan is tailored to your specific vein anatomy and cosmetic goals.
Effective Treatment Options
We utilize the latest, evidence-based procedures to target spider veins with precision:
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Sclerotherapy — A highly effective, in-office treatment where a specialized solution is injected directly into the spider veins. This solution causes the treated veins to collapse and gradually fade, revealing smoother, clearer skin.
Both methods are performed on an outpatient basis, require little to no recovery time, and deliver noticeable results over a series of treatments.
Why Choose USA Vein Clinics
At USA Vein Clinics, your comfort and results are our priorities. Our board-certified physicians and highly trained clinical team ensure:
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A compassionate, patient-centered approach
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Safe, state-of-the-art treatment protocols
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Customized plans based on your unique needs
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Clear explanations, transparent pricing, and thorough follow-up care
Whether you’re addressing spider veins for cosmetic reasons or to improve associated symptoms like aching or heaviness in the legs, our team of best vein doctors is here to guide you every step of the way.
Schedule a Consultation with a Vein Specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between spider veins and varicose vein symptoms?
Spider veins are small, superficial blood vessels that can appear as branches or webs just under the skin, often without causing symptoms but sometimes leading to itching or minor discomfort. Varicose veins, on the other hand, are larger, deeper veins that often appear twisted and raised on the skin. They can cause more significant symptoms like leg aching, a sensation of heaviness, cramps, and skin changes.
Do spider veins disappear on their own?
Spider veins do not go away on their own. However, vein treatment can improve the appearance of spider veins and alleviate any pain or discomfort from venous issues.
Are spider veins painful?
A small percentage of patients do experience spider veins symptoms, such as pain, tenderness, or swelling.
What are the best ways to prevent spider veins?
Lifestyle changes can help to keep your veins healthier and reduce any symptoms associated with spider veins. The following are lifestyle changes to help with spider veins:
- Exercise. Movement helps promote healthy blood flow. Even something as simple as walking for 20 minutes a day can improve vein health.
- Diet. By eating a diet high in fiber and low in salt, processed foods, and sugar, you can support healthy circulation, promoting better vein health.
- Changing position. Avoid being sedentary, or sitting or standing for too long, by switching positions or taking a quick walk.
- Wear compression stockings. These specialized socks help support blood flow while also decreasing pressure inside the veins, and ultimately relieve common spider vein symptoms.
How are spider veins treated?
At USA Vein Clinics, our doctors use minimally invasive treatments for spider veins, including sclerotherapy and laser treatment. We diminish the appearance of visible veins by causing damaged veins to collapse and rerouting blood flow to healthy veins.
Learn more about our vein treatments.
When should I consult with a vein specialist about spider veins?
If you don’t like the way your veins look, or if you notice spider vein symptoms, such as pain, restless legs, cramping, or skin changes, make an appointment to see a vein specialist near you. Spider veins might be a sign of an underlying vein condition that can get worse. Vein treatment can help to alleviate any symptoms and revitalize your legs.