The Symptoms of Spider Veins

Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are tiny veins that appear on the surface of the skin. These veins form when blood is restricted from flowing to the affected areas properly. In some cases, there are no symptoms of spider veins at all. Common symptoms often occur during times or prolonged standing or sitting. Pregnancy or menstruation may also increase the intensity of these symptoms. Spider veins are often the result of pregnancy but may also be hereditary. When hereditary, the veins may appear either early or later in life.

Appearance

• Spider veins are red in appearance and often accompany varicose veins. Varicose veins are blue or purple in color and appear around the spider veins. Spider veins commonly appear on the legs, pelvic region, or feet, though they may appear anywhere on the body. Spider veins occur most often in the lower region of the body due to the natural downward flow of blood owing to gravity and the result of the restriction of blood flow the weakened veins cause.

Characteristics

• Spider veins stay beneath the top layer of the skin, but varicose veins protrude outward. They are often seen in clusters. They commonly have a tree-branch-like appearance throughout the affected area. Swelling may also accompany the spider veins due to inflammation of the weakened veins, and brown discoloration of the skin may appear around the ankles when tiny blood vessels bust.

Sensations

• Spider veins may case sensations in the legs such as tingling, throbbing, pressure, or tiredness of the limbs themselves. Additionally, cramping or aching and tingling are common in some areas. These sensations are the result of the decreased blood flow in the areas in which the veins appear. Sitting or lying down for a period following the sensations may provide relief from the pressure or exhaustion. Avoiding long periods of standing or applying pressure to your legs will also lessen these symptoms.

Additional Symptoms

• Less common symptoms include bleeding, blood clots and ulcers. These result from the weakening of the veins and can actually be fatal. If you experience pain in the area of the spider veins, contact your physician immediately, as you may be experiencing these very serious symptoms.