Spider veins are typically not dangerous, but in some cases can be a cause for concern and can cause some discomfort

Spider Veins: causes, risks & treatment

Spider veins, also known as thread veins, are thin, web-like clusters of red, blue, or purple veins that affect millions of people worldwide. They often appear on the legs and face and can be a source of discomfort and cosmetic concern for some people. While spider veins are generally not considered life-threatening or dangerous, they can be a sign of underlying circulatory issues and, in some cases, lead to complications so it is always best to get thread veins checked if you are unsure.

Understanding spider veins

Spider veins, medically known as telangiectasia, are superficial blood vessels that have dilated and become visible through the skin. They often appear as a network of small, thin veins, resembling spider webs or tree branches. The exact cause of spider veins can vary, but several factors contribute to them appearing, including genetics, age, obesity, skin injury, hormone changes, sun exposure and lifestyle. 

Are thread veins dangerous?

The majority of spider veins are not dangerous in the sense of being life-threatening, but they can be indicators of underlying circulatory issues or pose certain risks if left untreated. In some cases, thread veins have been known to cause some discomfort, and can cause aching, burning, or itching sensations in the affected area, especially in the legs. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and could affect quality of life.

In some rarer cases, spider veins can lead to complications like superficial thrombophlebitis, which is a condition where the thread veins become inflamed and clot. Although this condition is typically manageable, some people who suffer with it report it as being painful.

Spider veins can sometimes be a sign of underlying venous insufficiency. This condition occurs when the valves in deeper leg veins are not functioning correctly, causing blood to flow backward and pool in superficial veins. Venous insufficiency can lead to more severe problems like varicose veins or even venous ulcers, which will need to be treated in a slightly different way.

In general, spider veins are not typically dangerous, however the number one reason why people seek treatment for spider veins is due to their appearance. Even though thread veins for most people do not lead to longer term health risks, they can be a source of self-consciousness, and many people prefer to have them removed to improve their appearance.

When should you seek treatment for spider veins?

You should get in touch with a spider vein specialist if you’d like to minimise the appearance of thread veins on your body, if you have spider veins that are sensitive or warm to touch, they are causing any pain or soreness, or if they start to bleed. Our team of specialists here at Dr Newmans Clinic are on hand to assess and treat spider veins on various parts of the body.

What can be done about spider veins?

The good news is that there are many things that can be done about spider veins, even just some minor lifestyle changes can help. Elevating your legs whenever possible, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing can all play a part in reducing the appearance of spider veins.

A more effective method of treatment for spider veins is Micro Sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive procedure where a solution is injected into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and gradually fade away. It is a common treatment for spider veins and we perform it daily in our practices across the UK. For finer spider veins, a procedure called Veinwave is used which is a heat process, and is often the preferred treatment for some patients. In some cases, a combination of both thread vein treatments may be recommended under the guidance of our thread vein experts.

Spider veins, while generally not dangerous for most people, can still pose risks and be a source of discomfort and cosmetic concerns for some. It is important to recognise the potential indicators of underlying circulatory issues, and if you're experiencing discomfort or have concerns about their appearance, we advise you consult a thread vein specialist. At Dr. Newmans Clinic, we are on hand to assess the severity of your condition, provide personalised recommendations, and discuss appropriate treatment options to help you manage or eliminate spider veins to improve your overall quality of life. Remember that prevention and early intervention are key to addressing spider veins effectively, to mimimise the chances of them posing a higher health risk in the future.