What are spider/thread viens?
Thread veins, often referred to as spider veins, are medically known as telangiectasia varicose veins. These veins are thin, red, and irregular lines that appear just beneath the skin’s surface. They are most commonly found on the face, especially the cheeks and nose, but can also be present on the calves and thighs. While they are not linked to severe medical conditions, thread veins can cause discomfort such as leg aches, pain, and restlessness, particularly at night. Additionally, they can affect body image and self-esteem for many individuals.
What causes spider/thread veins?
Spider veins are caused by weakness or damage in the veins. Like varicose veins, which are typically larger, both are usually viable. They commonly occur in the legs and can be blue, purple, or red. They may appear in the form of thin lines, webs, or branches and are caused by excessive pressure o the veins in the legs due to pooling of blood.
Thread veins or spider veins can develop due to various factors, including:
Age
- The likelihood of developing thread veins increases with age, although young adults can also be affected.
Genetics
- You are more likely to develop them if you have a family history of thread veins increases the risk of developing them.
Smoking
- Excessive smoking can impair circulation, leading to the development of thread veins.
Weight gain
- Being overweight puts extra pressure on the skin’s circulation, often resulting in thread veins.
Pregnancy
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly due to estrogen, can relax blood vessel walls and lead to spider veins.
Prolonged Standing or Sitting:
- Occupations or activities that require long periods of standing or sitting can impede blood flow and increase pressure in the leg veins, contributing to spider veins.
Injury
- Trauma or injury to the skin, such as bruises, can sometimes result in the formation of spider veins as the blood vessels respond to the injury.
What are the symptoms of spider/thread veins?
Spider and thread veins can be asymptomatic and painless. However, some people do seek treatment for cosmetic reasons as they do not like the appearance of the veins or associated skin discoloration. In some cases, the following symptoms can occur:
- Some individuals may experience a mild aching, itching or throbbing sensation in the affected areas, particularly after standing or sitting for long periods.
- A sensation of heaviness or tiredness in the legs, especially at the end of the day or after physical activity.
- Mild swelling in the ankles or legs.
- Some individuals report restless legs, particularly at night, which can disrupt sleep.
Spider veins are often harmless but, you should consult a healthcare professional if you experience:
- Persistent or severe pain and or swelling in the affected area.
- Any bleeding near the veins.
- Development of a rash, skin ulcers or sores.
How do I manage spider/thread veins?
Early intervention can help in prevention and managing symptoms. Lifestyle changes, compression stockings, or medical procedures like sclerotherapy or laser therapy may help with this condition.
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular physical activity and healthy diet can help improve circulation and can help reduce the appearance of spider veins.
- Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the legs and minimizes the risk of developing spider veins.
- Reduction or avoidance of prolonged Standing or Sitting: to improve blood flow.
- Elevation and gentle massage of legs to reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Specialist treatment
- There are some specialist medical procedures that can be offered for spider veins. Sclerotherapy causes cause the veins to collapse and fad. Laser therapy uses intense bursts of light on the veins to make them fade or disappear. In some cases, some invasive techniques can be used to collapse and seal the veins. Compression therapy may be used to support these procedures.
Compression hosiery:
- Compression therapy helps improve circulation by applying gentle pressure to the legs. This can help reduce swelling and discomfort. These can help in the prevention and management of spider veins. These garments are designed to apply pressure to the lower legs to supports the veins and leg muscle. This helps prevent pooling of blood and move blood more efficiently in the body and should be used in people who may have to stand or sit for long periods of time. It is important you are measured and use the correct garment for you. All garments should be used as directed.
Each treatment has its benefits and potential risks, so it’s important to discuss these with your doctor to determine the best treatment for you.
Daylong offers a wide range of compression stockings and support tights. See them here.
Where can I find more information?
More Information on the condition can be found at:
- NHS Choices – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/varicose-veins/