Spider veins are usually thought to be a cosmetic issue only, but can cause life-threatening blood clots as well. Sometimes, spider veins are an indication of a deeper vascular disease called venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency progresses over time, and your spider veins can eventually develop into varicose veins.
If you have started to notice spider veins in your legs, you should consult with a vascular disease expert for spider vein treatment without wasting time. Blood clots inside diseased veins can put you at risk of pulmonary embolism. Blood clots may be a common condition, but they should be taken seriously.
Are spider veins an early sign of potentially deadly blood clots?
Spider veins are not always visible, and people are increasingly realizing this fact. Many people experience tiredness, heaviness, cramping, restlessness, and swelling in the legs, but do not understand that the symptoms are a result of spider veins. They often believe them to be symptoms of a limb issue.
Spider veins show clear signs of venous insufficiency only when it reaches its advanced stage. Chronic pooling of blood in the leg can cause changes in the appearance of your skin. You may notice signs like discoloration, recurrent skin infections, bleeding, thickening/hardening of the skin, and sores that won’t heal.
To answer the question at hand, yes, spider veins can be an early sign of potentially deadly blood clots if not treated at the right time.
- Spider veins elevate the chances of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition involving blood clot formation in the legs that could potentially result in amputation or death.
- Spider veins increase your chances of developing a pulmonary embolism.
- Spider veins double your risk of peripheral artery disease.
These are some reasons why spider veins can be seen as an early sign of potentially deadly blood clots.
Can spider veins be painful?
Some people do not experience any pain related to their spider veins and only have an aesthetic issue with them. On the other hand, other people may experience the following:
- Aches
- Tingling on the legs
- Itchiness
- A feeling of heaviness in the legs
- Restless Leg Syndrome
If you experience any of these symptoms or more, you should consult with an expert immediately.
It is crucial to be aware of these symptoms so you can take medical action when required. You should obtain a proper diagnosis and seek a treatment method that works best for you. A vein specialist can create a personalized treatment plan for you.