What Causes Spider Veins?

Also known as thread veins, spider veins are small clusters of veins that form just beneath the surface of the skin. These clusters often resemble a spider's legs, and they result in red, purple, or blue discoloration. Spider veins are most prevalent in women, and they frequently appear on the thighs, ankles, calves, and face. Most spider veins are easily visible beneath the skin, and this can cause patients to feel self-conscious. Unlike varicose veins, spider veins do not produce bulges under the skin; they are level with the skin's surface. While spider veins are not normally a sign of a medical issue and are not usually painful, patients may want to receive treatment to reduce the appearance of these veins. To diagnose spider veins, doctors perform an ultrasound to investigate blood flow within the veins and to look for any leaks or potential clots. If a clot is suspected, the patient may need to have a venogram. Patients who have mild spider veins that do not cause pain often benefit from wearing compression stockings that can improve blood flow to the legs. Nonsurgical and surgical procedures may be appropriate for patients who have larger spider veins that produce symptoms.