Have you noticed webbed shaped veins under your skin? These are called spider veins and can appear as blue, purple, or red. These small veins are often connected and are more noticeable through thin layers of skin such as on the face.

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasia, are in indicator that you are experiencing some form of venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency is the result of the weakening of your vein walls and valves, which causes blood to pool in the veins. This is when you notice spider veins. When located on the legs you might experience uncomfortable sensations such as swelling, itching, and heaviness. Spider veins can also be found on the face as well.

Spider veins are caused by many factors. Heredity, sun exposure, consistently sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time, smoking, obesity, hormone changes, birth control pills, and even wearing tight clothing on a consistent basis. Aside from heredity, most of these are avoidable.

You are not doomed to have varicose veins just because you have spider veins, but your body is telling you that the circulatory system has become compromised. You are more likely to have varicose veins than someone who shows no signs of venous insufficiency. Varicose veins are larger, more painful damaged veins. They are more pronounced and appear as the “snaking” veins that bulge on legs. They can be embarrassing and painful. But, with the right treatment, they can be dissolved or removed.

Spider veins are a lot less noticeable than varicose veins, but if they bother you or you have an abundance of them, please contact a vein doctor such as the ones at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. Here, you will find a group of doctors whose expertise is evaluating, diagnosing, and treating (if needed), many types of venous insufficiencies. Simply give us a call at 813-975-2800 or schedule an evaluation through our online form. We care about our patients and want them to live a healthy, happy, pain-free life. We look forward to hearing from you!