Spider Veins
What Are Spider Veins?
As you age, your veins can change in appearance. Although spider veins are a common symptom of getting older, they can be a sign of deeper venous issues. Most adults know spider veins by their thin, web-like formation near the skin’s surface.
Spider veins have a blue, purple or red color. They get this nickname from their unique formations and spiderweb-like shapes.
Spider veins can occur when valves fail to transport blood upward toward the heart. Also known as venous reflux, this reversal of flow causes blood to pool in the leg. The backflowing blood can cause the small spider veins to enlarge. Though spider veins are most often a cosmetic issue, this condition may point you to a larger concern.
Symptoms of Spider Veins
Spider veins are usually just a visual concern for many people due to their unpleasant appearance and are typically asymptomatic. Others may notice slight discomfort near the affected area. The most common spider vein symptoms include the following:
- Pain or swelling
- Itching
- Aches
- Burning
Spider veins can be a symptom of developing varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency. A professional should diagnose these health concerns and treat them with proper care. You can learn more about venous diseases from our specialists.
Facial & Foot Veins
Spider veins are common on the face. You see them sometimes referred to as spider angiomas or telangiectasias, but they are all the same thing. They are clusters of veins that are just under the surface of the skin, as they are on the legs and feet. They usually don’t cause any pain.
You can also develop bulging veins on the forehead. Again, unless they are causing pain they are not a concern. Bulging veins are typically seen on the front of the forehead or on the side of your face near the temples.
Spider veins are caused by the same conditions that produce varicose veins: aging, heredity, pregnancy, occupations with prolonged standing, and sun damage. On the face, excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to spider veins.
The veins are the pathways to return deoxygenated blood back to the heart. As we age, the tissues that support the veins and help push blood through them weaken. This allows the blood to pool and for the veins to take a curvier route. The veins also contain valves that prevent backflow and as we get older these can allow leakage, also leading to varicose and spider veins. Plus, in the legs, the veins have an uphill battle the entire way.
As for the feet, since they are the farthest distance away from the heart, they are also prone to some backflow. As the blood pools, it causes the small veins to show themselves through the skin. Venous stasis is an accumulation of fluid in the lower extremities, but it is not usually the cause of your spider veins on the feet.
Causes of Spider Veins
Every case of spider veins differs in cause and severity. For many, spider veins result from various circulation issues that occur with age.
Other causes of spider veins include:
- Genetics
- Standing or sitting for extended periods
- Pregnancy
- Excessive sun exposure
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Age
Spider Vein Treatment Options
If you notice spider veins or feel unusual discomfort in your legs, we recommend you call our clinic. Our specialists use the most advanced diagnostic technology to ensure the proper treatment. Whether you have cosmetic or health reasons for visiting our office, our spider vein treatment options are minimally invasive and highly effective:
- Sclerotherapy: Our providers offer safe, simple and quick spider vein treatment with sclerotherapy. This procedure uses a small needle to inject a sclerosing agent, which closes the vein and redirects the blood.
- Compression stockings: Compression stockings are an excellent method to mitigate spider veins. Wearing these medical socks increases pressure in the legs and helps your veins properly transport blood.
- Laser: Patients with small spider veins may be eligible for laser therapy. During this nonsurgical procedure, your provider will use a highly specialized laser to remove any sign of your spider veins.
Contact Us for Spider Vein Removal in Houston, Texas
At Texas Vein & Wellness Institute, we put your health and comfort first with minimally invasive care. Though spider veins may not be your priority, we recommend seeing a specialist to identify any underlying issues. Our team can guide you through your options in case of developing concerns.
Schedule an appointment today for the best spider vein treatment in Houston, Texas! We have offices in Brenham and Houston for your convenience. Call 281-888-1464 or contact us online if you have questions!
Contact Us Today
Request an Appointment or Free Screening with a TXVWI specialist.