Spider veins are often dismissed as a minor cosmetic issue that doesn’t require medical attention. Although they are generally harmless, spider vein problems can indicate underlying health issues and lead to other complications if left unaddressed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at spider veins and tell you why you shouldn’t ignore them if they appear. 

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that appear in a web-like pattern close to the skin’s surface. They are typically red, blue or purple in appearance.

Unlike varicose veins, which are enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that can cause pain and discomfort, spider veins are usually painless and do not pose significant health risks. But that does not mean that you should skip spider vein treatment. 

Learn More: Varicose Veins vs Spider Veins: Similarities and Differences

Some spider veins do not indicate an issue. If you do not suffer from pains or cramps, you usually do not have to worry. However, the majority of them are primarily caused by a condition known as venous insufficiency, which can lead to certain complications.

Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in your veins fail to function properly, allowing blood to pool in your lower legs instead of flowing back to your heart normally. Risk factors include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged standing or sitting, a family history of vein problems, and a history of blood clot issues. 

Complications of Venous Insufficiency Caused By Spider Veins

While most spider veins remain harmless, they can be a sign of venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency may progress and worsen over time if ignored, therefore it is best to visit a doctor for a consultation or ultrasound for an accurate diagnosis. Venous insufficiency can have adverse effects on your health, causing symptoms such as itching, burning, or aching sensations in the affected area or developing into serious venous conditions. If ignored, it is a condition that can develop into many other issues, including:

• Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition characterised by the formation of blood clots within the deep veins of the body, typically in the legs. A serious complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism, where a blood clot breaks loose from the veins and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow and causing severe respiratory distress. This can be life-threatening. 

• Sores or Skin Ulcers

When spider veins become more pronounced and numerous, they can put increased pressure on the surrounding tissues and impair blood circulation. This can lead to the development of sores and skin ulcers, which can cause severe pain and discomfort, as well as lower your quality of life.

• Thrombophlebitis

Thrombophlebitis refers to an inflammation and blood clot formation within a vein. When spider veins affect the deeper veins, such as the saphenous vein, they may disrupt blood flow and trigger the formation of blood clots within the affected veins, causing inflammation, pain, and swelling. Similar to DVT, the clot can dislodge and cause pulmonary embolism. 

• Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that occurs when bacteria enters the body through broken skin. Although spider veins do not directly cause cellulitis, they can contribute to its development. The dilated and weakened blood vessels can compromise circulation and reduce the skin’s ability to fight off infection. The skin over spider veins are also thinner and more susceptible to injury, providing an entry point for bacteria. Cellulitis can spread rapidly, leading to systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, as well as redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain. 

Spider veins should not be disregarded as a mere cosmetic issue. Beyond the physical health risks, spider veins can also impact your emotional well-being and quality of life. Many people feel self-conscious about the appearance of spider veins and may experience embarrassment or low self-esteem. They may also avoid wearing certain clothing, such as shorts or skirts, or feel uncomfortable in social situations. By seeking spider vein treatment early on, you can regain confidence, prevent complications, alleviate discomfort, and improve your overall well-being.

Dr. Cheng at Cheng SC Veins and Endovascular Clinic offers different endovascular surgery procedures in Singapore suitable for the treatment of various issues associated with your veins. Schedule your medical appointment with us here.