Spider Veins

Spider veins are often thought of as the same as varicose veins, though they are a separate medical condition. These veins, also called venulectasias or telangiectasia, are smaller than varicose veins and are the mildest form of venous insufficiency, which is a medical condition that affects the blood circulation in your lower extremities.

Spider veins are groups of small blood vessels just under the surface of your skin that often resemble tree branches or spider webs. These groups of leg veins are usually purple, blue or red and are most common on the lower legs or thighs, though they may also appear on your face. There are rarely physical symptoms with spider veins, they are primarily a cosmetic issue and sometimes cover large areas of your skin. Experts indicate that at least 30% of all women have some spider veins, and some men have the condition as well.

These veins do not bulge above the surface of the skin and generally do not need medical treatment. They usually appear as a “tree-branch” pattern, a “sunburst” pattern resembling a spider web, or a set of thin lines called a “matting” pattern. The most common risk factors for spider veins are heredity, hormonal changes, age, pregnancy, obesity and long periods of standing. Sun exposure, especially for fair-skinned people, and skin injuries can also play a role in the condition’s development.

Though the condition is generally not painful, there are minimally invasive or non-invasive treatments that can treat the spider veins. Doctors also often recommend weight loss, exercise, flat shoes and support hose to reduce the occurrence of spider veins. Treatments such as laser procedures or sclerotherapy are usually not covered by Medicare or insurance unless they are tied to another more serious medical condition.

Spider Viens pre Sclerotherapy

Spider Viens post Sclerotherapy

Spider Vein pre-treatment

Spider Vein post-treatment