Treatable by a cosmetic dermatologist, spider veins (aka telangiectasias or venulectasias) are common problems for both women and men. They are groups of tiny red, blue, or purple thread-like veins in the shape of a spider web and are often associated with aging, though younger people can still have vein issues. Learn more about spider veins here, including what causes them and how they’re treated.

What Are Spider Veins & How Do They Develop?

Veins direct blood back to the heart using valves. The valves open to promote blood flow or close to prevent backflow. When a vein reaches micro-varicose status, these valves cease to function properly, causing blood to pool instead of flow upward.

The veins enlarge and twist as a result and typically appear on the legs due to pressure from walking and standing. And while spider vein development is related to heredity, weight gain, and jobs requiring people to stand for hours, the issue can also occur from pregnancy since growing fetuses put additional pressure on the legs.

Symptoms

Red, blue, or dark purple spider veins appear twisted near the surface of the skin. They can make the legs feel heavy or under serious pressure. Spider veins appear near the skin's surface and also occur from damaged or weak blood vessel valves.

While most veins are painless, they can still cause discomfort, such as itchiness around the affected area, and leg throbbing, burning, or cramping. Pain can intensify after standing or sitting for extended periods. The skin surrounding the veins can appear red as well.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the severity of the veins. Most treatments start with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight to reduce leg vein stress and wearing compression stockings that apply pressure for more efficient blood flow toward the heart. Elevating the legs whenever possible also helps blood flow in the right direction. Even if weight loss isn’t necessary, exercise is important to promote blood circulation and overall health.

If the veins do not improve or worsen, cosmetic dermatologists provide a variety of procedures that help legs look smooth and healthy. Most procedures use various tools, such as laser procedures that use light to block the vein. 

Discuss the right spider vein options with the cosmetic dermatologist experts at Aesthetic Institute of Atlantis, offering spider vein laser treatment, laser skin rejuvenation, and weight loss solutions. This medical team helps residents throughout Atlantis, FL, and the surrounding areas of Palm Beach look and feel beautiful. Call (561) 969-1777 today to schedule a consultation, or visit the cosmetic dermatologists online for more information. Like the Facebook page for the latest deals.