You’ve probably heard a lot of wives’ tales about what causes spider veins, how serious they are, and how to get rid of them. The good news is that spider veins aren’t much to worry about in most cases, but here's what you should know to separate cosmetic concerns from potential health issues.
Unlike varicose veins, spider veins are smaller, closer to the skin's surface, and often resemble a spider web or tree branch. They're caused by enlarged or damaged tiny blood vessels; while most people see them as a cosmetic concern, spider veins can indicate more serious vascular issues like chronic venous insufficiency.
Spider veins can be caused by various factors, including genetics, hormonal fluctuations, sun exposure, weight gain, and even prolonged sitting or standing.
Some common causes of spider veins include but aren’t limited to:
Genetic Predisposition
Genetic predisposition is one of the primary factors contributing to the development of spider veins. If you have a family history of varicose or spider veins, you are more likely to experience these vascular issues. Genetic factors influence the strength and elasticity of the veins, as well as the efficiency of the circulatory system. Weak vein walls and valves inherited from parents can make an individual more susceptible to the development of spider veins.
Age and Hormonal Changes
As we age, the elasticity of the blood vessels decreases, making them more prone to dilation, inflammation, and the formation of spider veins. Hormonal changes, especially in women, also play a significant role. Pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and hormonal birth can contribute to the development of spider veins.
You may be more susceptible to spider veins if your occupation or lifestyle includes long periods of sitting or standing. Jobs that require long hours of standing, such as nursing or teaching, can lead to increased pressure on the veins in the legs, impacting blood flow and causing veins to dilate.
Similarly, sitting for extended periods, especially with crossed legs, can also contribute to poor circulation and the appearance of spider veins.
Maintaining a healthy weight and regular physical activity are essential for overall circulatory health. Obesity strains the circulatory system and causes increased pressure on the veins, causing inflammation and swelling that can damage the valves in the blood vessels.
Valves in the veins move blood from the lower extremities back to the heart. When these valves become damaged or inflamed, it can lead to the development of chronic venous insufficiency.
Lack of exercise can also contribute to poor blood circulation, which can cause spider veins. Exercise can help improve blood flow, strengthen vein walls, and help you maintain your overall cardiovascular health.
Prolonged and excessive sun exposure can damage your skin and, in some cases, lead to the development of spider veins, particularly on the face. UV rays can weaken the collagen in the skin, affecting the blood vessels and causing them to dilate.
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, try to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by taking protective measures using a high SPF sunscreen and protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats to keep the sun off your face, which can help reduce the risk of developing spider veins on your face.
Spider veins on your legs are more likely to be influenced by other factors, but it’s still good practice to reduce UV exposure to any exposed skin by using sunscreen and UV-protective clothing.
Spider veins don’t go away on their own, but there are some lifestyle changes you can incorporate to prevent them from developing. Some lifestyle changes include but aren’t limited to:
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Excess weight can pressure the veins, leading to the development of spider veins. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can reduce the risk of these unsightly veins.
Promote healthy circulation by getting regular exercise.
Exercise helps strengthen the muscles that support veins, reducing the likelihood of blood pooling and the formation of spider veins. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are particularly beneficial.
Elevating your legs can help improve blood circulation, reducing the strain on your veins. Elevating your legs when sitting or lying down can be especially beneficial if you’re on your feet all day, helping move inflammation and congestion out of the lower extremities.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings help improve blood circulation and prevent the development of spider veins by applying gentle pressure to the feet, ankles, and calves. These stockings are especially beneficial for individuals who spend long hours on their feet or have a family history of vein issues.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can decrease your chances of developing spider veins.
Drinking adequate water and staying hydrated helps maintain blood volume, preventing the blood from thickening and putting additional stress on the veins. Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages like soda and coffee, as they don’t provide beneficial hydration.
Focus on a nutritious diet with lean meats and high-fiber fruits and vegetables. Additionally, a low-sodium diet helps maintain proper fluid balance in the body.
Smoking is known to have a damaging impact on blood vessels and circulation. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing spider veins and help improve your overall cardiac health. If you’ve tried quitting before and are struggling, ask your provider about smoking cessation support.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Prolonged sun exposure can weaken the skin and contribute to the development of spider veins. Use sunscreen regularly, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure to prevent skin damage on your face and the rest of your body.
Avoid Tight Clothing
Wearing tight clothing, especially around the waist, groin, and legs, can restrict blood flow and contribute to developing spider veins. Choose loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to promote healthy circulation. Ask your vein specialist or provider about more beneficial forms of compression clothing, such as compression stockings, and their appropriate use.
Spider veins sometimes indicate an underlying vascular issue. Knowing when to see a doctor about spider veins is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment, helping to rule out more serious conditions. Talk to your vein specialist or primary care provider if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
Pain or Discomfort
While spider veins don’t typically cause discomfort, some individuals may experience pain, aching, or a sense of heaviness, especially in the lower leg. These symptoms could indicate a more significant vascular problem, such as chronic venous insufficiency.
Chronic venous insufficiency is caused when the blood vessels of the legs become weakened or damaged and struggle to pump blood back up to the heart, causing blood to pool in the lower legs and feet. Other symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency include:
Inflamed lower extremities or swollen ankles.
A sensation of tightness in your calf muscles or discomfort and itching in your legs.
Discomfort while walking that alleviates upon resting.
Skin discoloration or a thickening of the skin around the spider vein.
The presence of varicose veins.
Occurrence of leg ulcers, occasionally posing challenges in treatment.
Changes in Size or Number of Spider Veins
Consult your doctor or vein specialist if you notice a sudden onset of spider veins or a rapid increase in their number and size. This could indicate an underlying issue that requires attention, such as venous insufficiency or other vascular disorders.
Family History
If you have a family history of vascular problems such as high blood pressure or heart disease, you may be at risk for developing spider veins. Genetics can play a significant role in developing venous issues, and those with a family history of varicose and spider veins may be at a higher risk.
Pregnancy
The hormonal changes and increased pressure on the blood vessels during pregnancy can contribute to forming of these visible veins. While spider veins related to pregnancy often improve after childbirth, seeking medical advice during pregnancy is important to manage symptoms and discuss potential treatment options.
Skin Changes
Tell your provider if you’ve noticed recurrent skin changes around spider veins. Skin changes may warrant a doctor's evaluation. Discoloration, inflammation, or the development of sores or ulcers near spider veins can indicate more severe venous conditions. These changes may indicate chronic venous insufficiency or venous stasis dermatitis, which can lead to long-term complications if left untreated.
Ultimately, consulting a doctor about spider veins is recommended if there are concerns about their appearance or if they are associated with symptoms of discomfort or skin changes.
A healthcare professional can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of the spider veins. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, compression stockings, or minimally invasive procedures, depending on the severity and nature of the condition.
Treatment for spider veins includes but isn’t limited to:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Quitting smoking
Being active
Wearing sunscreen
Wearing compression stockings
Elevating your legs
Spider veins don’t go away on their own, but there are minimally invasive treatments accessible for both spider veins and varicose veins. These procedures aim to minimize recovery time, reduce discomfort, and expedite healing compared to traditional surgical approaches. Here are several frequently employed minimally invasive techniques:
Utilization of Compression Stockings
Discover affordable vein care at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), where we accept a range of insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.
Take the first step towards healthier veins—call 240-965-3915 to speak with a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR location near you today. Find a location near you.
About Vein Disease
Spider Veins
Varicose Veins
Vein Disease Treatments
Treating Spider Veins
Treating Varicose Veins
About Us
Patient Resources
Physician Resources