What Are Spider Veins?

Often resembling a “spider web,” spider veins are small, dark veins visible just underneath the surface of the skin. Both spider and varicose veins are abnormal veins that develop as a result of improperly functioning, or “leaky” valves. The main differences between spider and varicose veins are their size and location. Spider veins are smaller and closer to the surface than varicose veins. Spider veins can be itchy and painful, and because of their close proximity to the skin surface, spider veins are more likely to bleed.

How Are Spider Veins Treated?

Spider veins are treated with sclerotherapy injectionsMedicine is injected into the spider veins, instantaneously reducing their appearance. Most spider and varicose veins form as a result of “leaky” valves in other, larger veins.

Spider Veins May Be a Sign of a Bigger Problem

Spider veins are almost always indicative of an underlying, more serious vein issue.

For this reason, many patients treated with sclerotherapy injection alone are frustrated for this reason.

At McQuaid Vein Care, vein treatment starts by identifying the underlying problem. Once the larger varicosities are studied under ultrasound guidance, identified and treated, spider veins can be treated with sclerotherapy injection.