Spider VeinsMilwaukee

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are red and purple blood vessels that occur in patches on the legs and face. Spider veins and varicose veins are not the same and one does not necessarily lead to the other. Whereas, varicose veins are large, swollen, and occur singularly on the legs, spider veins are delicate and tend to develop in clusters. Both spider veins and reticular, or “feeder” veins deeper in the skin may cause discomfort.

Spider veins usually do not pose a health threat. Although, they can cause aching and discomfort, spider veins are primarily a cosmetic problem. Spider veins usually take on one of three basic patterns:

View before and afters

• Tiny branch like shape (common on inner knee)
• True spider shape
• Sunburst pattern (common on outer thigh)

Can spider veins cause pain?

Spider veins usually do not cause symptoms, however, symptoms which may be associated with spider veins can include:

• Dull, localized aching
• Throbbing pain
• Burning tingling

These concerns may worsen with menstruation and warmer weather. Relief of these symptoms may come with walking or elevating the legs.

What factors contribute to spider veins?

The most significant factors are:

• Heredity
• Occupations that involve prolonged standing
• Obesity
• Hormonal influences during pregnancy
• Use of oral contraceptives
• Post-menopausal hormone replacement
• Prolonged sitting with legs crossed
• History of blood clots

Other minor factors include topical steroids, trauma or injury to the skin, and exposure to ultraviolet rays. Women develop spider veins 4 times more frequently than men. In fact, about 70 percent of adult women are afflicted with spider veins at some time in their lives.

• What is the treatment for spider veins?
• VIDEO: Laser Therapy Treatment for Spider Veins at Wisconsin Vein Center & MediSpa
• VIDEO: Spider veins on your legs?

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SPIDER VEIN TREATMENT?

Patients considering spider vein treatment should have healthy habits in place to prevent further development of spider veins, including losing weight, being active, and wearing compression stockings. A history of arterial diseases or the use of certain blood thinning medications can mean some patients may not be good candidates. Additionally, patients with varicose veins may need to explore other treatment options. Patients looking for cosmetic improvement for visible spider veins on the legs or face are often good candidates for this procedure.

THE BENEFITS OF SPIDER VEIN TREATMENT

The biggest benefit of spider vein treatment is an improvement in patient confidence while wearing shorts, skirts, or other leg-baring clothing. Additionally, many patients enjoy decreased discomfort that can be associated with spider veins. Spider vein treatment does not require extensive downtime or incisions, meaning it’s well-tolerated by many patients with a variety of lifestyles.

PLEASE NOTE: Spider vein treatment is considered a cosmetic procedure by Medicare and most insurance companies, and therefore is not a “covered benefit”.  Most HSA plans do allow you to use your HSA toward spider vein treatment payments as it is usually a qualified medical expense.  Check with you plan coordinator to be sure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Varicose Veins