Are Spider Veins a Health Concern?

Have you noticed thin, web-like veins on your legs or face? Those are called spider veins — they’re incredibly common, but they’re not always easy to understand. 

Are these visible veins a cosmetic issue, or are they a sign of something more serious? The short answer is: It depends. Most of the time, spider veins are harmless, but in some cases, they can point to an underlying vein problem that needs a closer look.

Drs. John Yoo and Benjamin Wilson, of Vascular & Interventional Specialists in Fort Worth, Texas, explain it all here. 

What are spider veins, exactly?

Spider veins are small, twisted veins that appear just beneath the skin’s surface. They’re usually red, blue, or purple and can look like a thin web or tree branches — hence the name.

You most often see them on your legs and ankles and your face (especially around the nose and cheeks).

They’re similar to varicose veins but smaller and typically not raised. While they don’t usually cause physical discomfort, their appearance can make some people feel self-conscious.

Spider veins form when the tiny valves inside your veins stop working correctly. These valves typically help blood flow in one direction, back toward your heart. When they weaken or become damaged, blood can pool, causing the vein to swell and become visible.

One of the most common causes is prolonged sitting or standing, which puts pressure on the veins in your legs. Age also causes vein walls and valves to weaken over time.

Sun exposure is another common contributor, especially for spider veins on the face.

Some blame genetics — if your parents had them, there’s a good chance you’ll get them, too. You may also notice spider veins develop as a result of hormonal changes (namely during pregnancy, puberty, or menopause) or after injury or trauma to the skin. 

When are spider veins not a health concern?

In most cases, spider veins are harmless. They don’t cause pain or affect circulation, and they don’t lead to serious medical issues. For many people, they’re simply a cosmetic concern.

That said, just because they’re not dangerous doesn’t mean they’re not worth treating.

When should I be concerned?

Sometimes, spider veins are more than skin deep. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult one of our vascular specialists:

• Aching, throbbing, or heaviness in the legs
• Swelling, especially around the ankles
• Itching or burning near the spider veins
• Skin changes (like discoloration or thickening)
• Frequent leg cramps or restlessness at night

These symptoms could be signs of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) or deeper vein issues that need evaluation and treatment.

Even if your spider veins don’t hurt, it’s smart to keep an eye on them and discuss any changes with us, especially if you notice new ones are popping up quickly.

How are spider veins treated?

If spider veins are bothering you, either physically or cosmetically, there are several effective, non-surgical treatment options, including sclerotherapy. 

Sclerotherapy is a quick, in-office procedure where a special solution gets injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and fade over time. Most people require a few sessions for full results.

Specific lifestyle changes can also make a significant difference in your vascular health.

Wearing compression stockings, staying active, elevating your legs, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing can help prevent new spider veins from forming.

We help you determine which treatment is best for you based on the size, location, and severity of your veins.

Spider veins are usually nothing to worry about, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore them. Whether you’re concerned about how they look or how they feel, a quick consultation with our vein specialists can give you peace of mind and a clear path forward.

 Call our friendly staff at 817-321-0951 or use our online booking tool to schedule a consultation today.