Spider Vein Symptoms and Causes

Spider veins is a term used to describe veins which are visible just beneath the surface of the skin on the legs, struggling to perform.

Incidence: Very Common
○ More than 3 million US cases per year
○ Lab tests or imaging not required
○ Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong

They become blue, purple or red in hue. These veins are smaller in appearance compared to varicose veins. Varicose veins are often raised and large, swollen with blood. Spider veins are typically on the legs, ankles, and occasionally the term is used to describe the little wiry veins on the face. They can be embarrassing for those who have them. Varicose veins are only seen on the legs although something similar can sometimes be seen on the lips where they are called venous lakes.

Cause of birthmarks: Skin ulcers: A type of vein issue that forms when the vein doesn’t drain, depriving your skin of oxygen (These can be difficult to treat.). Bleeding: Occurs when the skin over the veins has become thin and is easily injured. Phlebitis: An inflammation of the vein caused by a blood clot. Thrombosis: A medical condition in which blood clots form in the swollen vein (Deep vein thrombosis can be life-threatening if the clots travel to vital organs.)