Spider Veins and Thread Veins Explained: Causes, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options
Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that appear close to the skin’s surface, often forming web-like patterns on the legs, face, or other areas. While typically harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying venous insufficiency. At Dr. Soroush Sohrabi’s Clinics in Dubai, advanced, minimally invasive treatments effectively eliminate spider veins, improving both appearance and vascular health. With personalised care tailored to each patient’s needs, we ensure safe and lasting results.
What are spider veins (thread veins)
Characteristics of spider veins (thread veins)
Spider veins (or thread veins) and reticular veins are another type of venous disease. They are thinner and smaller than varicose veins. Spider veins may look like branches of a tree or spider webs. They can appear red or blue in colour and most often seen behind the knee, feet and on the face. Spider veins and reticular veins are usually associated with underlying vein problems.
Differences Between Varicose Veins and Spider Veins (thread veins)
Varicose veins are enlarged blood vessels that bulge just beneath the skin's surface. They can vary in size and are typically blue or purple in colour. These veins become enlarged due to the weakening of vein walls and the poor functioning of the valves inside the veins (incompetent valves).
Varicose veins are often more noticeable when standing up and may disappear when lying down. This is because gravity causes the leg veins to fill with blood when standing, making them more visible.
Varicose veins commonly occur in the lower half of the body, particularly in the legs. Some patients may also develop them in the hip or pelvic region.
Common locations of leg spider veins (thread veins)
Spider veins can develop on various parts of the body, but they are most commonly seen on the legs and face. On the legs, they typically appear on the thighs, calves, and ankles. Their visibility is influenced by factors such as sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition, and the amount of body fat, as thinner skin and lower fat levels can make them more prominent.
Causes of spider veins (thread veins)
The exact cause of thread veins, also known as spider veins, is not always well understood. However, genetics play a major role. Several risk factors can contribute to an increased likelihood of developing thread veins.
Genetics and family history
A family history of spider veins increases the likelihood of developing them.
Venous insufficiency and varicose veins
Individuals with venous insufficiency and varicose veins are more likely to develop thread veins (spider veins). Impaired vein function and increased pressure within the veins can cause these small, visible blood vessels to form on the skin’s surface. Over time, weakened vein valves and blood pooling contribute to both varicose veins and thread veins, especially in the legs and ankles. Addressing venous insufficiency early can help minimize the risk of thread veins developing.
Hidden varicose veins
Individuals with hidden varicose veins can develop thread veins even without visible varicose veins. In some cases, they may also experience symptoms such as leg swelling, fatigue, and heaviness without noticeable bulging veins. This occurs due to underlying venous insufficiency, where weakened vein valves cause blood to pool, leading to discomfort and the formation of thread veins on the skin’s surface. A Doppler ultrasound can help diagnose hidden varicose veins and guide appropriate treatment.
Aging
As veins weaken over time, valves become less efficient, leading to blood pooling and vein dilation. Skin thins with age, making spider veins more visible
Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can weaken vein walls due to hormonal fluctuations.
Use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can also increase the risk.
Smoking
Smoking damages blood vessels and increase the risk of developing thread veins.
Sun exposure
Ultraviolet (UV) rays can weaken collagen and damage blood vessels, particularly on the face and legs. In fair-skinned individuals, prolonged sun exposure can make veins more visible, further contributing to the development of thread veins.
Prolong sitting and standing, lifestyle, job
Movement supports healthy blood flow, while prolonged sitting can slow circulation. On the other hand, standing for long periods makes it harder for blood to flow upward, as it must work against gravity.
Injury and trauma
Previous leg injuries, surgeries, or deep bruising can damage veins, leading to thread vein formation.
Obesity and body fat distribution
Excess weight adds pressure to the veins, increasing the likelihood of developing spider veins. Conversely, lower body fat levels can make thread veins more prominent and visible on the skin.
How are the leg thread veins diagnosed?
Leg spider veins and reticular veins present themselves as unsightly vein under the surface of the skin. They can be associated with symptoms of venous insufficiency such as leg swelling, skin discolouration, itchiness, fatigue, or pain with or without visible varicose veins. The diagnosis spider veins includes a care examination by a vascular specialist and Doppler ultrasound of your legs.
Do I Need a Doppler Ultrasound for Spider Veins on My Legs?
Yes! The majority of people with spider veins, even without visible bulging varicose veins, may have underlying venous insufficiency. Treating spider veins without addressing the root cause—venous insufficiency—can increase the likelihood of recurrence and may also raise the risk of complications following treatment.
When to treat thread veins
Thread veins (spider veins) can be treated at any time, but seeking treatment is recommended in the following situations:
If They Cause Discomfort
While often considered a cosmetic issue, thread veins can sometimes cause itching, burning, or aching, particularly in the legs.
When Associated with Venous Insufficiency
f thread veins are accompanied by symptoms such as leg swelling, heaviness, fatigue, skin discolouration or restless leg syndrome, it may indicate underlying venous insufficiency. A Doppler ultrasound can determine if there is an underlying vein issue that needs treatment.
For Cosmetic Concern
Many individuals choose to treat thread veins to improve the appearance of their legs, face, or other affected areas and restore confidence.
When Conservative Remedies Are Ineffective
If lifestyle changes like elevating the legs, wearing compression stockings, or exercising regularly do not improve the condition, professional treatment may be necessary.
Spider vein (thread vein) treatment
Micro-sclerotherapy is a simple, non-surgical procedure designed to effectively treat spider veins. This technique involves injecting a specially formulated solution, known as a sclerosant, directly into the small, visible veins. The solution irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse, stick together, and eventually fade as the body naturally absorbs the treated vein. The procedure is quick, requires no anesthesia, and is performed in an outpatient setting with minimal discomfort. Most individuals can resume normal activities immediately, and improvements in skin appearance become visible as the treated veins gradually disappear over the following weeks.
Effective Spider Vein Treatment in Dubai
Micro-sclerotherapy for spider veins
