They seem to appear out of nowhere with their thin spindly arms that reach out in every direction. Like little purple or blue starbursts on the face, arms, or legs, spider veins are often thought to be a cosmetic problem, but when you have them yourself, these venous issues can be all out creepy. Even worse, if left untreated, the spider veins can crawl out and get bigger. If you have spider veins showing up on your body, you are bound to have questions and concerns. Here are a few of the most common questions about spider veins and the answers you will want to know about this creepy-crawly problem. 

Why do the spider veins show up in the first place?

Spider veins can have several different root causes, such as being overweight or even standing for long hours. However, most of the time, the spidery veins come from pressure on certain areas of the skin that changes blood circulation in that particular area. If you sit for long periods with your legs crossed, for example, it can cause excess pressure on the blood vessels in your legs and spider veins could start to develop. 

Is it true spider veins can turn into varicose veins?

Spider veins don't really turn into varicose veins because the two are actually different things. However, both spider veins and varicose veins have similar causes. Therefore, if you already have problems with spider veins, you may be more at risk for developing varicose veins as well. Because of this, it is not at all uncommon to develop spider veins and varicose veins concurrently or within the same time frame or even on the same areas of the body.

Can spider veins be eliminated or treated?

Spider veins are often deemed a cosmetic problem, but in actuality, they can be painful, cause itching and irritation, and even be tender to the touch. Therefore, treatment does sometimes become even more important than just for cosmetic purposes. Some of the same procedures that are used for varicose veins can be used for spider veins. For example, sclerotherapy and laser therapy may be used to force the tiny veins to collapse, which stops blood flow to that particular bundle of blood vessels. You may see a reduction in the appearance of spider veins by exercising regularly, following a good diet, and doing what you can to prevent bodily pressure in certain areas. 

Speak with a vein doctor for more information. 

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