Spider veins are a common condition in which small, damaged blood vessels appear on the legs and face. Spider veins are blue, purple, and red in color, and often shaped like webs or branches. They are are typically harmless and painless, but many people choose to treat them for cosmetic reasons.
The vein specialists at Metro Vein Centers are highly experienced in treating spider veins. Our procedures are performed in-office with little to no downtime, so you can enjoy a pain-free life with restored confidence.
Spider veins are similar to varicose veins and occur near the surface of the skin. Small and threadlike, they often look like spider webs or tree branches, and can be red, blue, or purplish in color. They can cover a small or large area of skin, and may enlarge over time. For some, spider veins are a cosmetic issue, but they can also cause throbbing, aching, and itchy legs.
Varicose vein symptoms usually get worse as the day progresses, and may be relieved somewhat by leg elevation and aerobic activity. Even those without visible varicose veins may still be symptomatic due to non-visible dilated veins exerting pressure on nerves.
Most spider veins appear in the legs due to the pressure of body weight, gravity, and the task of carrying blood from the bottom of the body up to the heart. Compared with other veins in the body, leg veins have the toughest job since they endure the most pressure.
Spider veins often appear in combination with varicose veins and share the same underlying causes.
At Metro Vein Centers, we offer several vein treatment options for spider veins using the latest technology.
Current treatments for spider veins have very high success rates compared to traditional surgical treatments. Over a period of years, however, more abnormal veins can develop as there is no cure for weak vein valves. Ultrasound can be used to keep track of how badly the valves are leaking (venous insufficiency). Ongoing treatment can help keep this problem under control.
