What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, visible blood vessels that appear just beneath the surface of the skin. They often look like thin red, blue, or purple lines that branch outward—sometimes resembling a spider web. Spider veins most commonly develop on the legs, but they can also appear on the face, chest, or arms.
While spider veins are usually not dangerous, many people find them bothersome—either because of how they look or because of the symptoms they can cause.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins form when tiny veins weaken and stop working as efficiently as they should. Normally, veins carry blood back toward the heart, but when small valves inside the veins don’t function properly, blood can pool and cause the vein to enlarge and become visible.
Common contributing factors include:
- Genetics – a family history of vein disease
- Age – veins naturally lose elasticity over time
- Hormonal changes – pregnancy, menopause, or hormone therapy
- Prolonged standing or sitting – especially for work
- Pregnancy – increased blood volume and pressure on leg veins
- Previous vein disease – including varicose veins
For many patients, spider veins are not just cosmetic—they can be an early sign of underlying vein issues.
Do Spider Veins Cause Symptoms?
Some people with spider veins notice no physical symptoms at all. Others experience discomfort that can worsen throughout the day.
Symptoms may include:
- Aching or throbbing legs
- Burning or itching near visible veins
- A heavy or tired feeling in the legs
- Mild swelling around the ankles
- Leg discomfort that worsens after standing
If spider veins are accompanied by symptoms, it’s important to have them evaluated to determine whether deeper vein problems may be contributing.
How Are Spider Veins Diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a thorough consultation. At Vein Center of Wisconsin, we take time to understand your symptoms, medical history, and concerns.
In some cases, a non-invasive ultrasound may be recommended to evaluate blood flow and rule out underlying vein reflux. This step is important because treating surface veins alone may not provide lasting relief if deeper veins are involved.
Treatment Options for Spider Veins
Spider vein treatment is highly effective when done thoughtfully and based on proper evaluation.
Visually-Guided Sclerotherapy
For many patients, visually-guided sclerotherapy is the preferred treatment. A specialized medication is injected directly into the visible veins, causing them to close. Over time, the body naturally absorbs the treated veins, allowing them to fade from view.
The procedure is performed in the clinic, involves minimal discomfort, and requires little to no downtime.
When Ultrasound Guidance Is Needed
If spider veins are connected to larger underlying veins, ultrasound-guided treatments may be recommended to address the source of the problem before or alongside cosmetic treatment.
Are Spider Vein Treatments Safe?
Yes. When performed by experienced providers in a medical setting, spider vein treatments are considered safe and well-tolerated. Most patients resume normal activities the same day, with gradual improvement in both appearance and symptoms over the weeks that follow.
How Vein Center of Wisconsin Can Help
At Vein Center of Wisconsin, spider vein care is never one-size-fits-all. We focus on understanding why spider veins have developed and whether they’re part of a broader vein condition.
Our approach includes:
- Careful evaluation and diagnosis
- Clear explanation of findings and options
- Thoughtful, minimally invasive treatment
- A calm, patient-centered experience
Whether your concern is appearance, discomfort, or both, our goal is to help you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your care.
Take the Next Step
If you’re noticing spider veins—or experiencing leg symptoms you’ve been living with longer than you should—an evaluation can provide clarity and peace of mind.
We’d be glad to welcome you to our clinic, answer your questions, and help you understand whether treatment may be right for you.
Schedule a consultation with Vein Center of Wisconsin and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable legs.
