Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Nuffield Vascular and Interventional Radiology provide personalised care and solutions for our patients. Take the first step towards relief—don’t let varicose veins hold you back any longer.

Table of Contents

What are Varicose Veins?

Blood circulation to the legs operates through two main systems:

  1. Arterial System: Transports oxygenated blood from the heart to the legs.
  2. Venous System: Returns deoxygenated blood from the legs to the heart.

 

The venous system consists of two components:

  • Superficial Venous System: Located just under the skin.
  • Deep Venous System: Found near the bones and deep muscles.

Varicose veins primarily affect the superficial veins under the skin. In healthy veins, valves ensure the continuous flow of blood back to the heart. However, if these valves become damaged or diseased, it can lead to venous reflux disease, where blood flows backward. Varicose veins develop as a direct result of this condition.

The Two Types of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins most commonly appear in the legs and are typically classified into two types:

Bulging Varicose Veins: Swollen, enlarged veins that protrude visibly under the skin.

Spider Veins: A fine network of red or blue lines visible just beneath the skin’s surface

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic concern—they can result in significant physical discomfort and complications. Common symptoms include:

  • Leg Discomfort: Heaviness, fatigue, aches, pains, and cramps.
  • Swelling: Legs may become visibly swollen.
  • Skin Changes: In severe cases, varicose veins can cause skin conditions such as dermatitis/eczema, ulcers, and recurrent infections.

Some individuals may experience thrombophlebitis, characterised by acute pain, tenderness, and redness over the affected veins due to inflammation and clotting in the varicose veins.

Spider veins, while smaller, can also cause itching and significant aching pain in the affected area.

Causes and Symptoms of Spider Veins

Spider veins occur when the valves within veins weaken or become damaged. This dysfunction disrupts normal blood flow, causing blood to pool in the veins. The resulting pressure can weaken and expand smaller vein branches, making them visible beneath the skin. While the exact cause is not always known, contributing factors may include:

  • Hormonal changes
  • Connective tissue disorders
  • Genetic conditions
  • Injury or trauma

 

Typically, spider veins are asymptomatic. However, in rare instances, they may cause:

  • Itching
  • Burning sensations
  • Cramping
  • Fatigue in the legs
  • Pain
Your Health, Our Priority​

I’m here to help you regain control of your health. Together, we’ll manage your symptoms and prevent future complications using personalised care and innovative technology. – Dr Suresh Babu