Spider Veins: 5 Most Common Symptoms and How to Find Relief

Spider veins are small, web-like clusters of blue, red, or purple veins that often appear on the legs or face. Although they’re typically not harmful, they can cause discomfort and self-consciousness for many people. Spider veins develop when the tiny one-way valves in your veins weaken, allowing blood to pool and making veins more visible through the skin.

At BASS Vein Center, we see patients across the East Bay who experience both the cosmetic and physical symptoms of spider veins. Below are the five most common signs to look out for — and what you can do to find relief.

Spider Veins: 5 Most Common Symptoms

1. Heaviness or Aching in the Legs

A dull ache or sense of heaviness is one of the earliest signs of spider veins. You might notice this more after standing or walking for long periods. The discomfort often improves with leg elevation or movement.

2. Burning, Cramping, or Swelling

Spider veins can sometimes cause a warm or burning feeling beneath the skin, accompanied by mild swelling or muscle cramps — especially at night. This occurs when blood flow becomes sluggish in the affected veins.

3. Increased Pain After Sitting or Standing

When you remain in one position for too long, your veins must work harder to return blood to your heart. People with spider veins often find that leg pain or pressure worsens after long periods of sitting or standing still.

4. Itching or Skin Sensitivity

Many patients report itching, irritation, or tenderness over the spider veins. The surrounding skin may feel inflamed or sensitive to touch, and in some cases, dryness or flaking can occur.

5. Visible Skin Discoloration

The most recognizable symptom is the web-like discoloration itself. Spider veins appear as fine red, blue, or purple lines that branch across the skin, often around the calves, thighs, or ankles.

How to Alleviate Spider Vein Symptoms

While spider veins don’t always require treatment, the discomfort they cause can be managed with a few lifestyle adjustments:

• Wear compression stockings to improve circulation.
• Exercise regularly to encourage healthy blood flow.
• Avoid sitting or standing too long in one position.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the legs.
• Elevate your legs when resting to assist blood return to the heart.

If symptoms worsen or become painful, professional treatment may be necessary.

Treatment for Spider Veins at BASS Vein Center

At BASS Vein Center, our specialists offer effective, minimally invasive treatments for spider veins and varicose veins. Options may include sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, or VenaSeal™ vein closure, depending on your condition.

Our experienced vascular surgeons have performed tens of thousands of successful vein procedures throughout the East Bay, helping patients restore both comfort and confidence.

Don’t let vein discomfort slow you down — schedule a consultation today to discuss your options.