3 Unexpected Places You Can Develop Spider Veins

Spider veins generally appear as web-like discolorations of the veins (usually red, purple and/or blue). Like varicose veins, they are most common in the legs and thighs. However, spider veins can also appear in some unexpected places like the face, chest, back, abdomen and ankles.

Telangiectasia, the medical term for spider veins, are small, thin blue blood vessels that can be seen under the skin. Spider veins generally aren’t as painful as varicose veins and usually don’t present any health risk. However, they do present a cosmetic issue for many patients who are unhappy with the appearance of these veins in visible areas of their body.

The good news is that there is treatment, called sclerotherapy, to diminish the appearance of the veins.

Causes

These tiny veins are typically invisible, but in some people they expand and show through the skin. Determining the exact cause is difficult, but they could be caused by abnormal veins under the skin, heredity factors or hormonal fluctuations which is more prevalent in women.

Face

This area of the body where spider veins can present is a serious cosmetic issue. Usually they’re found around the nose, cheeks, chin or under the eyes. Two common causes of spider veins on the face are sun exposure and smoking. Both can weaken or damage blood vessels, which causes the veins in the face to become more visible. Skin diseases such as rosacea and eczema can also cause spider veins on the face as the irritation adds pressure to the veins, causing them to become more visible.

Chest, Back and Abdomen

These areas of the body can also be a cosmetic concern for some people. Just like the face they are not usually a health risk. These spider veins can be treated but it usually requires more than one treatment to see results.

Feet and Ankles

This is a very common area to develop spider veins. Spider veins around the foot and ankle can sometimes be a sign of underlying vein disease, if left untreated they can progressively get worse and can lead to itching, aching and burning sensations. .

For many, spider veins are simply a cosmetic concern, but for others the veins could potentially indicate more serious circulatory problems.

Whether you seek cosmetic treatment for spider veins or have concerns about other signs of vein disease, Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us today to set up a consultation appointment.