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Some patients seek treatment for spider veins because of their appearance, while others notice changes that raise questions about their overall vein health. At Physicians Vein Clinics, we take both concerns seriously and provide a detailed evaluation for each patient.

All of our treatments for spider veins are minimally invasive and performed by board-certified vein experts. We offer locations across the Upper Midwest and beyond, where you have access to experienced vein care close to home. To schedule an appointment, you can call us at 888-782-8346, and we will take you through the next steps.

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What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins and varicose veins are sometimes used interchangeably; however, they are quite different. Spider veins appear smaller and closer to the surface of the skin, usually flat or just slightly raised. They are known as spider veins because of their network of short, jagged lines resembling spider webs.

Like varicose veins, these are caused by a pooling of blood when valves are weakened or damaged. The valves in veins are responsible for carrying the blood flow from the legs back to the heart. When vein walls become damaged, they create vein problems and some other complications such as blood clots. Spider veins can be associated with chronic venous insufficiency, but can also exist outside of this vein disease.

The tiny blood vessels often appear on legs, thighs, ankles or in some cases, the face and they are generally red, blue or purple. They are almost always painless but can be a cosmetic nuisance. Spider veins can be associated with chronic venous insufficiency, but can also exist outside of this vein disease.

Causes and Risk Factors of Spider Veins

Genetics

If your family has a medical history of spider veins, you have a higher chance of developing them. This includes parents, siblings and grandparents who have experienced visible veins.

Pregnancy

Increased blood flow puts pressure on the veins in the legs during pregnancy and can increase the chance of getting spider veins. Not every woman develops spider veins, and they often disappear after pregnancy is over.

Excess Body Weight

Too much weight on the body can add pressure to leg veins. When this happens, the veins in the lower body have to work harder to push blood back up toward the heart. The strain can slow circulation and allow blood to pool in these tiny surface veins.

Lack of Exercise

Many people have jobs requiring sitting or standing for long periods of time. Being in the same position for a prolonged time can cause spider veins to develop. Movement contracts leg muscles, which helps to push blood against gravity and reduces pressure in the legs.

Sun Damage

UVA & UVB from the sun cause damage to the skin, which then breaks blood vessels and creates spider veins. Repeated sun exposure also makes the skin thinner and breaks down collagen and elastin, which can allow small veins to be more visible through the skin.

Age

Vein walls weaken as people age. The calf muscle, which supports leg veins to pump blood upward, will also weaken. Together, these factors can lead to more visible surface veins.

Signs and Symptoms of Spider Veins

  • Thin red, blue or purple lines visible just beneath the skin
  • Vein clusters that resemble a web or a branching pattern
  • A bruised or tender feeling in the affected area, reported in up to 85% of patients
  • Mild burning, itching or tingling near visible veins
  • Leg heaviness or aching, especially after long periods of standing
  • Increased visibility of veins after sun exposure or prolonged sitting or standing

Treatment Options for Spider Veins

Spider Veins are almost always painless, but can be a cosmetic nuisance. Simple outpatient procedures such as sclerotherapy or laser treatment are both used to reduce or eliminate their appearance. These procedures are non-surgical and have minimal or no downtime.

Compression Stockings

Compression stockings are one of the first things we recommend to manage and slow the progression of spider veins. These garments apply pressure to the legs to support vein walls and encourage blood to move upward. Some options include:

  • Support stockings: Hose provides light pressure.
  • Gradient Compression Stockings: Compression stockings are graded to help with different levels of blood flow. Compression stockings come in four levels: mild (8-15 mmHg), Medium (15-20 mmHg), Firm (20-30 mmHg) and X-Firm (30-40 mmHg).
  • Prescription Compression Stockings: These require a doctor’s prescription and start at 20-30 mmHg. They provide the most pressure, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. Consult our physicians for compression stocking options.

Sclerotherapy

Physicians inject an irritant directly into the affected vein. When the walls of the veins react, they stick together and keep blood from flowing into the area. Several sclerotherapy treatments may be needed to treat all of your visible spider veins.

Prevention of Spider Veins

Lifestyle changes can reduce pressure on your veins and prevent spider veins. During your consultation, we may recommend:

  • Staying Hydrated: Drinking enough water supports your circulation, keeps your blood thin and helps your body maintain proper blood volume.
  • Eating Healthy Food: Eating meals with plenty of fiber and antioxidants can keep your veins healthy and prevent constipation, which increases pressure on the lower veins. Here is our recommended diet for venous insufficiency.
  • Exercising Often: A good 30 minutes of exercise every day can help to prevent the development of spider veins and maintain your vein health.

Find a Spider Vein Doctor Near Me

The vein specialists at our 12 vein clinics are happy to bring confidence and comfort back to your life. We do minimally invasive spider vein treatments at affordable prices. Book a free screening at your nearest vein clinic to learn more about your vein condition, risk factors, preventive care, vein treatment and insurance coverage.

Why Physicians Vein Clinics

  • Board-certified vein specialists who diagnose and treat vein disease every day
  • 14 convenient vein centers across South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Minnesota
  • All vein treatments are minimally invasive and performed in-office with little to no downtime
  • Free vein screening available with no referral required, and most insurance plans accepted
Find a Vein Clinic Near Me

Frequently Asked Questions

Are spider veins genetic?

They can be. Heredity is a cause of spider veins in many cases. About 90% of people with spider veins have a family history of spider veins.

Are spider veins permanent?

Spider veins can disappear after a period if they are due to pregnancy or certain medications. However, they can be permanent and worsen over time. Conservative therapy, lifestyle changes, medical treatments, etc., can help remove spider veins. Consult a vein doctor to have a correct diagnosis of your spider veins’ causes and determine the best treatment options for you.

How much does spider vein treatment cost?

The cost of treatment varies based on your condition. It can be inexpensive if you only need conservative therapy. The good news is you might be eligible for vein disease coverage by your insurance plan. Book a free screening with our vein specialist to learn more about your treatment options.

When are spider veins dangerous?

Spider veins can be just a cosmetic issue. Talk to your vein doctor if you are showing any of these following symptoms: leg aching, leg heaviness, leg ulcers, leg fatigue, muscle cramps, ankle swelling, restless legs, itching and burning legs, skin discoloration or skin rash such as eczema.

Find a Vein Clinic Near You

If you find yourself frustrated about how your skin looks because of spider veins, we can help. At Physicians Vein Clinics, we evaluate the cause of your spider veins and offer minimally invasive treatments to reduce their appearance and prevent recurrence.

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