Telangiectasia, also known as vascular spiders, are small red or purple capillary 'spider veins', which appear on the surface of the skin, very thin and branched, most frequently on the legs and face, mainly on the nose, neck, chest and upper and lower extremities., being more evident in people with fair skin. Telangiectasis is more common in women and can be indicative of some diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, cirrhosis, scleroderma and syphilis, for example.
These spider veins can be seen with the naked eye and form a kind of 'spider web' and in most cases these spider veins do not cause serious health problems or symptoms, thus it is only an aesthetic discomfort, however in some women they they can cause pain or burning in the area, especially during the menstrual period.
The main difference between spider veins and varicose veins is their size, because they are exactly the same disease. The spider veins are between 1 and 3 mm, being more superficial, while the varicose veins are larger than 3 mm and affect larger and deeper blood vessels. A spider vein cannot become a varicose vein because it has already reached its maximum point, but what can happen is that the person has veins and varicose veins at the same time.
Main causes
Although these small pots can be seen with the naked eye by the person himself, it is recommended to consult the angiologist so that he can assess the circulation of the region, identify the problem and suggest the best treatment. The doctor must identify the spider vein, differentiating it from varicose veins, because they need different treatments.
Some factors that favor the formation of these spider veins in the legs are:
- Having cases in the family; Staying in the same position for a long time, like running with hairdressers, teachers and store sellers; Being overweight; Taking the birth control pill or using the vaginal ring or other hormone; Old age; Alcohol consumption; Genetic factors; During pregnancy due to increased belly volume and decreased venous return in the legs.
The spider veins on the legs especially affect women and are more visible on very fair skin, becoming more disguised when the skin is more tanned and in skin tones of brunettes, mulattos or black women.
How is the treatment done to dry the spider veins
The spider veins in the legs can be eliminated by the angiologist, using a technique called sclerotherapy, also known as “foam applications”. This technique can be done in a doctor's office and uses needles and a medicine that is injected into the spider vein to stop the blood flow. This dries out these spider veins, eliminating the path of blood circulation. The treatment for telangiectasias on the face is usually done by means of the laser.
All treatment can be complemented by diet and physical exercises guided by the doctor, as well as the use of elastic stockings may be recommended. The doctor may also recommend a hormonal control to prevent the appearance of new spider veins, and it may be recommended to interrupt the birth control pill, for example, in addition to being able to recommend the use of ascorbic acid orally and local dermabrasion. Know all the treatment options to eliminate leg spider veins.
How is the diagnosis
The diagnosis of telangiectasis is made through laboratory and imaging tests that are indicated in order to rule out other related diseases. Therefore, the doctor for recommending the performance of a blood test, tests to assess the functioning of the liver, X-ray, tomography or magnetic resonance.
