Spider veins lie close to the skin surface and look like delicate blue or red tracings. Varicose veins could appear blue, red, or even skin-colored but look more like cords that bulge out of the skin. Doctors consider spider veins a more minor result of the same problem that causes varicose veins. That is, valves that control blood flow have become weak. Thus, people with spider veins may eventually develop varicose veins and even more severe issues in the future.

Some people have a genetic tendency to develop spider or varicose veins. Otherwise, these conditions could cause an increased risk:

• Obesity or pregnancy
• Having to sit or stand for extended periods
• Exposure to the sun
• Hormone changes
• Age

Certainly, age increases the risk of suffering from leg vein problems. The Department of Health and Human Services finds leg vein problems quite common with the overall population too. Contrary to popular belief, these problems do not just impact women. As many as 55 percent of women and 45 percent of men suffer from some kind of problem with the veins in their legs.

Doctors don’t generally consider spider veins a very serious medical issue by themselves. Some people suffer from itching or burning in the area where they appear. Rarely, they could signal blood backup inside the legs. Anybody who suffers from discomfort or has an underlying medical issue should seek medical treatment. The appearance of spider veins may signal that the patient should take steps to keep them from progressing into varicose veins and other more serious issues. Doctors might suggest moderate exercise, suitable shoes and stockings, and other measures to improve overall health and keep spider veins from getting worse.

Certainly, doctors also offer proven treatments for people who want to remove unsightly spider veins to improve their appearance. In New York, contact the Metropolitan Vein and Aesthetic Center to address concerns over vein problems by calling 914-295-2202 today.

Many patients have a hard time grasping what varicose veins are and how they form in the body. Generally speaking, your veins are designed to keep blood moving in the direction of the heart. When you have varicose veins, the valves stop closing after the blood moves through them. This is caused by chronic venous insufficiency. 

This condition allows the blood to flow backward into the vein and pool up, causing swelling and the blue or purple color that you have come to associate with varicose veins. 

Varicose veins tend to worsen over time. They can lead to pain if the progressive nature of the disorder is not addressed quickly. In the beginning stages, varicose veins are small and can hardly be seen. They are not likely to cause much pain or discomfort during this stage. 

The larger they grow, the more likely you are to feel them become sensitive to the touch. The swelling becomes uncomfortable and leads to fragile skin surrounding the varicose veins. Once you start to notice more pain, the veins can even cause ulceration. 

Unfortunately, the development of varicose veins can indeed increase your chances of deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. Varicose veins affect the veins that are closest to the surface of the skin, but DVT impacts the veins deeper in your legs. As blood pools up in these larger veins, you may have more blood clots. 

Blood clots can negatively impact your circulation, but there is an even bigger risk: If they work their way loose, they can travel to the lungs, which can be fatal. If you have varicose veins, early treatment is key. 

Once you notice that you have developed varicose veins, don’t expect them to improve all on their own. Varicose veins are a progressive disorder that will worsen over time. 

You should not let varicose veins progress because they can cause discomfort or pain. While you may not need to worry immediately, consistent swelling or ulceration should be key factors in determining when to treat this condition.  

These six risk factors can all contribute to the development of this condition: 

• Genetics
• Pregnancy
• Menopause
• Age
• Obesity
• Prolonged standing

If you experience any of these risk factors, you should pay close attention to veins in your legs that appear swollen or dark in color. These could be the early signs of the formation of varicose veins. 

• Changes in skin color or texture around the affected leg area
• Dry, thin skin on the legs
• Aching or heavy sensation in the legs
• Itching or burning feeling in the affected area