The Truth about Spider Veins

Spider veins are one of the most obvious manifestations of varicose veins. They are commonly mistaken for large bruises, discolored skin, and 'broken' veins. They are often times the most cosmetically distressing part of a varicose vein problem. They keep people from wearing shorts, from swimming, from using sandals, and can lead to symptoms such as burning, itching, aching and bleeding. Many times these are overlooked during physical exams with physicians and patients that ask about them are tolled that they are harmless and to ignore them.

The truth is that these are simply small versions of large varicose veins. These are very small veins that have stretched out and are now many times larger in diameter than they should be. As a result they engorge with blood. This blood, and the inflammation associated with the stretching, cause the blue/purple/red discoloration. Bruised appearing spots are usually a cluster of these small veins that are extremely close together giving a 'bruised' appearance. (If you stretch the skin and look closely at these spots you'll see the distinct lines of the individual veins.) They can come in many shapes and forms. They can be single lines, fan or star-burst shapes, or dense 'bruised' appearing spots.

Spider veins can be symptomatic. Burning, itching, and aching pain are the most common complaints. These small distended veins are very near the surface of the skin. As a result, when they become more distended throughout the day, inflammation increases and the local skin nerves are irritated. This causes the symptoms. More importantly, spider veins can be an early warning sign that a larger vein is also becoming varicose.

Patients who are concerned about spider veins should check with their physician. An ultrasound of the leg may be performed to determine if there is any larger vein involvement. There are many good treatments for spider veins today including sclerotherapy and laser treatment.

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