Are spider veins a sign of poor circulation?
Do you have thin purple or reddish veins that have appeared on your face, legs, or feet? These unsightly spider veins, show up for many reasons which can include pregnancy hormones, genetics and also lifestyle choices. While spider veins are not a danger to your health, they can be a sign of not yet seen health issues that you may need to address with your doctor.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are extremely thin veins that are less than 1 mm in diameter. They may be present on your face or legs. In appearance, they may look like a wiggly pen line or spider web. These veins are just under the surface of the skin, they are easy to spot and distracting to the overall appearance of your skin.
Do Spider Veins form due to Poor Circulation?
Most of the time, the root cause of someone’s spider veins remains unknown. There are a few usual culprits. As you age, gain weight or have weakened valves, your veins may allow your blood to flow backward ‘reflux’ and begin to pool in your legs. This reversed blood flow puts pressure on and enlarges your veins, making them more visible causing both spider and varicose veins.
So yes, poor circulation and spider veins are indeed related. Because blood is not efficiently moving in the correct direction, poor circulation is causing the spider veins to develop and expand.
There are, however, many other reasons for spider veins. The walls of your veins may have weakened over time. You could also have suffered from an inflammation in the damaged veins. This is known as phlebitis. You may also have an inherent genetic abnormality.
What Treatments Are Available?
Spider veins often get the short end of the stick when it comes to treatment, mostly because unlike varicose veins, spider veins are mainly considered cosmetic. Some patients do experience pain or burning in the area added to the visual. In these cases, we would recommend either Laser Therapy or Sclerotherapy.
Check out our site for more information on both treatments: Laser therapy & Sclerotherapy.
If you are in the Tampa, Florida area give us a call and set up an appointment. (727) 712-3233 or visit us online at www.westfloridaveincenter.com.