“Spider veins” appear under the skin’s surface like short, fine lines, “starburst” clusters, or a web-like maze. Often, they are red or blue and typically not palpable. Spider veins are common in the thighs, ankles, feet and face. The medical term for spider veins is telangiectasias.
Spider veins can be caused by the backup of blood. They can also be caused by hormone changes, exposure to the sun, and injuries.
Factors that cause spider veins:
- Increasing age
- Medical history
- Hormonal change
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Lack of movement
- Sun exposure
Symptoms:
- Aching pain that may get worse after sitting or standing for a long time
- Throbbing or cramping
- Heaviness
- Swelling
- Rash that’s itchy or irritated
- Darkening of the skin (in severe cases)
- Restless legs
Spider veins rarely are a serious health problem, but they can cause uncomfortable feelings in the legs. However if ignored it could lead to varicose veins.
Medical tip
Basic therapy against this medical condition is medical compression stockings like
Medical compression stockings are prescribed by the doctor if required, and the patients are measured for the correct fit by specialist medical retailers (e.g. surgical appliance dealers): the user’s leg circumferences are measured in several places so that the compression stocking matches his anatomy exactly.
