Spider Veins Specialist

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are weak or damaged veins that become visible on your skin. They’re smaller than varicose veins and not raised. They get their name because they can look like a spider’s web on your skin.

Spider veins are usually blue, purple, or red. They most often develop on your legs, either just above or below your knees or on your ankles. However, you can get spider veins anywhere on your body, even your face. 

What causes spider veins?

Like varicose veins, spider veins form when weakness in your vein allows blood to accumulate in a section of the blood vessel. The pooled blood causes your vein to swell and branch out, eventually becoming visible on your skin. 

Your chances of getting spider veins increase if you have a family history of the condition. Other risk factors for spider veins include:

• Being female
• Pregnancy
• Being overweight or obese
• Hormones
• Spending prolonged periods of time on your feet or sitting
• Previous vein health problems
• Sun damage

Excessive pressure from things like pushing during labor, coughing, sneezing, or vomiting can also trigger spider veins. 

When should I talk to a doctor about spider veins?

In most cases, spider veins are harmless. However, you might be unhappy about their appearance. In rare cases, spider veins can cause pain, tenderness, or itchiness. 

If you’re concerned about your spider veins for any reason, you should make an appointment at University Vascular to learn about your treatment options. 

What are the available treatments for spider veins?

The board-certified vascular surgeons at University Vascular begin with an exam of your spider veins and an assessment of your vascular and overall health. They then create a treatment plan to address your needs. 

In some cases, your provider might recommend compression stockings. They might also recommend treatments such as sclerotherapy or superficial and endovenous laser therapy.

Compression stockings put pressure on your legs, helping your veins push blood back to your heart more efficiently and reducing your risk of additional spider veins. 

Treatments like sclerotherapy and endovenous laser treatments close and seal the damaged section of the vein. After your treatment, the blood drains from the treated vein and the vein disappears from your skin. 

Call University Vascular or make an appointment online today for expert treatment to reduce the appearance of spider veins.