Are Spider Veins a Health Risk?
Spider veins are small, thin veins that lie close to your skin’s surface. These veins usually appear in a blue, purple, or red web-like pattern on your legs, which is why they are called spider veins.
Spider veins can also occur on the face and other body parts. Because they are a mild form of varicose veins, they are not usually considered a serious health issue. However, spider veins can indicate an underlying condition and pose a health risk to some people.
At NJ Vein Care and Aesthetics Center in Oradell and Clifton, New Jersey, Dr. Gary Nackman and his team provide several treatment options for spider veins.
As a board-certified vascular surgeon with more than 25 years of experience in the field, Dr. Nackman provides skilled and patient-centered care for people with spider veins.
Learn more about what causes spider veins and how to spot the signs that they could be a potential health risk.
What causes spider veins?
The development of spider veins has several contributing factors, including:
- Genetics: Spider veins can run in families and are more likely to occur if you have a family history.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the veins in your legs, leading to the development of spider veins.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause spider veins to develop.
- Prolonged standing or sitting: People who spend long periods standing or sitting are at a higher risk of developing spider veins.
It’s crucial to remember that spider veins can form any part of your body, not just your legs. When checking for spider veins, it’s essential to inspect your entire body.
Signs that your spider veins could be a health risk
While spider veins are not a serious health issue, they can pose a health risk to some people. If you observe your spider veins are causing significant pain, swelling, or skin discoloration, this could be a sign that something is wrong.
Some of the conditions commonly associated with spider veins include:
Blood clots
In rare cases, spider veins can form blood clots, which can be fatal. Conditions like pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis are associated with blood clots.
Skin ulcers
People with spider veins are at a higher risk of developing skin ulcers, which are painful and challenging to treat.
Venous insufficiency
If you have spider veins, you risk developing venous insufficiency, a condition in your veins that causes swelling, pain, and other debilitating symptoms.
How are spider veins treated?
We can treat spider veins in several ways. One way is with sclerotherapy, a procedure in which we inject a solution into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time.
Another treatment option is laser therapy, where we use intense light to eliminate the veins and cause them to fade. We offer Icon™ and Elite+™, which are capable of targeting smaller veins.
Spider veins may appear as a cosmetic issue, but they can pose a health risk to some people. If you have spider veins, it is essential to seek treatment to prevent any potential health complications.
If you have spider veins and begin experiencing pain, swelling, or skin ulcers, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately. With the proper treatment, you can reduce the appearance of spider veins and improve your overall health.
Contact us by booking an appointment online or calling 973-791-7359, and let us take care of your spider veins expertly and efficiently today.