Spider veins don’t automatically mean you have poor circulation. These small red, blue, or purple blood vessels are often harmless and may be mainly cosmetic. However, they can sometimes appear alongside vein disease, particularly when you also have leg swelling, aching, heaviness, or skin changes.
With locations in Austin and Bee Cave, TX, South Austin Vein Center evaluates visible veins and symptoms that might point to an underlying concern. Founder and Medical Director Dr. Michael Di Iorio is board-certified in vascular and interventional radiology, as well as diagnostic radiology. He was also among the first physicians certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins form when tiny blood vessels near the surface of your skin become enlarged and visible. They frequently appear on the legs, although they can also affect the face, chest, or other areas.
Several factors may raise your likelihood of developing them, including:
- Family history
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Aging
- Prolonged sitting or standing
- Excess weight
Many people develop spider veins without having a serious circulation problem. Their presence alone can’t explain how well the deeper veins in your legs are working.
When Can Spider Veins Be Connected to Vein Disease?
Healthy leg veins use one-way valves to move blood toward your heart. When these valves weaken or fail to close properly, blood can flow backward and collect in the legs. This is known as venous reflux.
Spider veins can occur in people who also have venous reflux, but their presence doesn’t confirm chronic venous insufficiency or show how advanced a vein condition may be. Other symptoms provide important clues about what’s happening below the skin.
Consider having your vein health checked when spider veins occur with:
- Aching, burning, or cramping
- Tired or heavy legs
- Swelling around the ankles
- Itching or skin irritation
- Bulging varicose veins
- Brown or reddish skin discoloration
- Sores near the ankles
Symptoms that worsen after prolonged standing or sitting might indicate impaired venous return and warrant a closer look.
How Is Your Circulation Evaluated?
A vein evaluation generally begins with a review of your symptoms, health history, and visible changes in your legs. Your provider may also recommend a venous ultrasound, which can help identify valves that aren’t working properly, areas of backward blood flow, or other concerns that can’t be seen from the surface.
This exam helps distinguish isolated cosmetic spider veins from visible vessels associated with a deeper vein condition.
Get Clear Answers About Your Spider Veins
You don’t have to guess whether your spider veins are cosmetic or related to venous reflux. South Austin Vein Center provides vein assessments in Austin and Bee Cave, TX. You can contact us at 512-614-1025 to request an appointment.
