Spider Veins
Spider veins (or telangiectasias) are groups of small, visible blood vessels that develop near the surface of the skin. Spider veins often have a red or bluish coloring and they resemble the appearance of spiderweb, hence the name. They most commonly occur on face and legs.
Causes of Spider Veins
Like varicose veins, spider veins are dilated superficial blood vessels. Exactly why some people develop spider veins and others don’t is unknown, however, certain factors may predispose you. Those factors include:
- Age
- Heredity
- Hormones
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Leg Injury
- Prolonged Standing or Sitting
- Sun Exposure
Symptoms of Spider Veins
Many people with spider veins experience no symptoms. The tiny veins simply appear on the surface of the skin because blood is restricted from flowing to the affected areas properly.
If symptoms are present, they may include:
- Itching, tingling, throbbing, pressure in the limbs
- Tiredness in the limbs
- Cramping or aching due to decreased blood flow in the areas which the spider veins appear
Symptoms often occur during times of prolonged standing or sitting.