A 45-year-old member asked:
Are spider veins signs of a health problem?
4 doctor answers • 9 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctoranswered
41 years experience
Can be: Spider veins, or spider angiomata, on the chest can be a sign of liver trouble. Something that is often called spider veins that are seen around the inside of the ankle (more accurately called corona phlebectatica), can be an indication that there is underlying venous insufficiency and venous hypertension. If corona is present, then you should be seen by a vein specialist for an evaluation.
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5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctor commented
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PS: Great question!
Mar 4, 2013
Dr. Norman Beinanswered
General Surgery 52 years experience
It depends: Spider veins have several causes...Almost always there is no underlying disease but there are several diseases that can cause spider veins from liver disease to hematologic diseases to blockages of venous return to the heart.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Joel Gotvaldanswered
Vascular Surgery 26 years experience
Usually not: Spider veins are typically an inherited condition that only affects the skin. They are most commonly a cosmetic issue only & are usually not an indication of an underlying vascular condition or health problem. If you have very aggressive or severe spider veins or have pain & swelling in the legs in association with the veins, then it is possible that you might have venous reflux. Seek vein MD.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. John Landianswered
Phlebology 48 years experience
Spider veins: Spider veins on the legs and face are a very common problem and are usually not a sign of an underlying health problem. They can occur for a number of reasons including genetics, aging, pregnancy and hormones. Spider veins in other areas usually are also normal findings but occasionally could reflect underlying problems. For example, spider veins on the abdomen may be a sign of a liver problem.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
Boston, MA
A 33-year-old female asked:
What causes spider veins? Are they indicative of any health problem?
5 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctoranswered
Family Medicine 48 years experience
Many causes: certainly common in liver disease and obesity; however, old trauma, vasomotor instability, weight flucuations are just a few reasons.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.8k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 26, 2016
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