Spider veins also are known as Telangiectasias, are small enlarged blood vessels near the surface of the skin or mucous membranes, measuring between 0.5 and 1 millimeter in diameter. These dilated blood vessels can develop anywhere on the body but commonly occur on the face around the nose, cheeks, and chin. These swollen vessels also develop on the legs, chest, breast (especially after breast transplants) and other areas of the body. When developed on the legs, they are found specifically on the upper part of the thigh, below the knee and around the ankles. Spider veins look like tree branches or spider webs.
What Causes Spider Veins in Legs?
Spider veins may not of any real clinical significance and only cosmetic concern. In such case patients usually, have no symptoms associated with spider veins. Such is night spider veins can be caused by the following circumstances:
- Change in hormones, caused by puberty, pregnancy, or menopause
- Sun exposure
- Injuries in the affected area
In other patients, spider veins can be a reflection of venous insufficiency or leaky veins. Leaky venous valves lead to venous dilatation. This means that the vein valves are not closing in a normal manner and blood begins to back up in the system, therefore causing the veins to bulge. This finally results in the opening and appearance of spider veins.
At Boston Vein Care, we specialize in the treatment of spider veins with sclerotherapy and laser spider vein removal. If patients have associated symptoms, we start the plan of care from investigating the under cause of spider veins. In our experience, this approach results in long-lasting spider vein treatments and the best cosmetic results.
Patients can call us anytime (855) 798-3467 or make appointment online.
