Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that appear close to the surface of the skin and often resemble a spider's web or a tree branch. They can develop anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the legs and face. 

Poor circulation is often associated with the development of spider veins, so let’s dig into whether there is in fact a correlation between the two.

The causes of spider veins

Tiny spider veins, also known as telangiectasia, form when the valves inside the veins weaken or malfunction and are actually surprisingly common. Normally, these valves in the veins help blood flow in one direction towards the heart, but when the valves become weak or damaged, blood can flow backwards and pool in the veins, causing them to become enlarged and visible through the skin.

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of spider veins, including genetics, age, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause), obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, and a sedentary lifestyle. While spider veins are often harmless and primarily a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes cause discomfort or itching, especially when they form in large clusters.

Are spider veins a sign of poor circulation?

One common misconception is that spider veins are always indicative of poor circulation, however, as experts in understanding and treating damaged veins, we know that the relationship between spider veins and circulation is not always straightforward. While it's true that poor circulation can contribute to the development of spider veins, having visible spider veins does not necessarily mean that poor circulation has caused them to appear.

What is poor circulation?

Poor circulation, also known as peripheral vascular disease (PVD), happens when your blood doesn't flow well to all parts of your body. It can be caused by things like narrow or blocked blood vessels, a weak heart, or health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Signs of poor circulation include cold hands and feet, numbness or tingling, swelling, slow healing, and leg cramps. In serious cases, it can lead to issues like blood clots, varicose veins, or heart problems. 

While spider veins may be a symptom of poor circulation in some cases, they can also develop independently of having any circulation issues at all. Factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle choices play significant roles in the development of spider veins, and they are often more of a cosmetic concern than a medical one with many people who have them not experiencing symptoms of poor circulation.

When to seek treatment for spider veins

Although spider veins are generally harmless, some people may choose to seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or if they experience discomfort or pain associated with their spider veins. At Dr Newmans Clinic, we specialise in thread vein removal using advanced techniques such as micro sclerotherapy and thermocoagulation (Veinwave treatment). These minimally invasive procedures can effectively remove spider veins, improving the appearance of them on your skin’s surface.

It's important to consult with one of our qualified vein specialists to determine the best course of action for treating spider veins. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing may help prevent spider veins from worsening or recurring. It may be other factors that are causing them to develop, but we always suggest trying some minor lifestyle changes to see if that helps to keep your spider veins at bay. 

Maintaining healthy circulation

While spider veins may not always indicate poor circulation, it's still important to prioritise vascular health to reduce the risk of developing more serious circulatory problems in the future. 

Why not try introducing the following habits into your daily routine to help promote healthy circulation:

1. Staying active - regular (ideally daily) physical activity such as walking, cycling, swimming, or yoga is great for keeping your blood flowing smoothly throughout your body.
2. Elevating your legs - if you spend long periods sitting or standing, take breaks to elevate your legs above heart level to reduce pressure on your veins and improve circulation.
3. Wear compression stockings - consider wearing compression stockings or socks, especially if you have a job that requires prolonged sitting or standing as these are especially designed to improve circulation in your legs.
4. Maintaining a healthy weight - excess weight can put strain on your circulatory system, so aim to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
5. Avoid tight clothing - tight clothing, especially around the waist, groin, or legs, can restrict blood flow, so opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing whenever possible to keep your circulation optimal. 

While spider veins may be unsightly or uncomfortable for some people, they are not always a sign of poor circulation. However, poor circulation can contribute to the development of spider veins in some cases, but as always, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or vein specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan if you have concerns about your spider veins or vascular health. At Dr Newmans Clinic, we offer a range of advanced treatments to address spider veins and promote healthy circulation for our patients, so why not get in touch today to see how we can help you.