What are spider veins?
Spider veins (telangiectasia) are often very small and caused by a dilation of tiny capillaries on the skin’s surface. These blue, red, and purple clusters of veins often appear at a young age and can develop into painful, complicated venous insufficiencies over time. Without treatment, spider veins can become much more than simply an unsightly cosmetic condition!
A healthy venous system ensures that blood flows up in an uninterrupted manner, from the lower half of your body, back up to your heart. This process occurs with the help of valves within the vein system, allowing blood to flow freely in the body. In contrast, a dysfunctional vein system will create blood reflux (or backflow of blood), causing veins to bulge and discolour.
What triggers the onset of spider veins?
Women may experience a quicker onset of spider veins than men due to the many physical stresses brought on by pregnancy and childbirth. But various factors are considered to contribute to spider veins in both men and women alike. These can include hormonal changes (female menopause), a sedentary lifestyle, weight fluctuations, and hereditary factors like genetic predispositions to the condition.
What do spider veins look like and what are the symptoms?
While spider veins are not often painful, the issue is characterized by a cluster of discolored blue, green and red veins seen on the thighs, calves, ankles, and sometimes on the face, hands and arms. These spider veins can become noticeable at different times during a patient’s life, and are typically 1mm to 2mm thick. While many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, untreated spider veins can also result in substantial pain and discomfort, requiring therapy.
Symptoms of spider veins:
- Rash
- Cramping or throbbing in legs
- Restless legs
- Swelling
- Small, flat, dilated blood vessels on the skin’s surface
Patients may choose to have these unsightly patches of veins removed for a number of reasons. Treatments may include injective and minimally invasive procedures like Sclerotherapy, or non-surgical treatments like the use of compression stockings. The most effective and permanent therapy for spider vein conditions is treatment through the use of lasers.
Canada Vein Clinics is the number one clinic for spider vein treatment in Canada. Our expert physicians possess years of experience in venous disease treatments and provide comprehensive and compassionate care to all our patients – custom tailored to your specific needs and conditions. With our state-of-the-art laser technology and skilled team of expert medical professionals, Canada Vein Clinics is your best choice for the treatment of spider veins.
Still have questions about spider veins and spider vein treatment? Please consult our list of frequently asked questions or contact our office to schedule your assessment and consultation.
