Thread Veins

Thread Veins or Spider Veins are small networks of dilated veins just under the skin. They often branch or ‘flare’ and sometimes radiate out from a single feeding vessel resembling a spider. They are very common affecting the majority of adults as they get older. Whilst they may not be symptomatic, they are often associated with an underlying vein problem.

Their colour and appearance will depend upon their size and depth. Larger thread veins often appear blue/purple in colour, whilst those that are smaller often appear more red. If they are very close to the surface of the dermis, then they are often seen more clearly. It is also true that as we age our skin becomes thinner and thread veins become more visible.

No long waiting lists at our clinics

Its best to get all veins problems treated early

Don’t worry if you have got unsightly thread veins, we have many simple treatments available. As with many medical conditions, it is always best to get your thread veins attended to as early as possible.

A Professional Team

Led by Mr Jeremy Newman

Thread Veins Symptoms

Whilst many patients with thread veins experience no symptoms, due to the association with varicose veins and venous pooling there may be symptoms of:

Aching, cramping and heavy legs – particularly towards the end of the day or at night
Pain and tenderness – especially overlying or on pressing the lumpy veins
Swelling of the ankles and feet – worse towards the end of the day or prolonged standing
Itchy, scaly dry skin (varicose eczema)
Restless legs – again most commonly at night

No long waiting lists at our clinics

It’s best to treat your thread veins before they become problematic

Thread Vein Causes

The cause of thread veins is not fully understood. There is certainly agreement that there is a genetic pre-disposition similar to varicose veins, with family members often also suffering thread veins. Other risk factors include pregnancy, prolonged standing, as well as local trauma and topical steroid use. Many patients have underlying varicose veins or refluxing superficial feeder veins when they are examined using Duplex ultrasound.

Are Thread Veins Serious?

Whilst thread veins are not a serious condition, they are often associated with an underlying vein problem or feeding vein and may develop or are already associated with varicose veins. Left untreated they may progress into varicose veins and their complications

West Midlands Veins Clinic

Jeremy Newman, Veins Consultant and Vascular Surgeon has been helping people with painful, unsightly and itchy varicose veins for over 20 years. Now available at his new West Midlands Veins Clinic at Stourside Hospital Stourbridge. As a Consultant and vascular specialist, he can help using the latest techniques and procedures to treat and remove varicose veins. The newest techniques offer a quicker recovery time, less bruising and virtually no scars. These days, waiting lists are long, and many people seek a private solution to treat or remove sore, inflamed, or unsightly varicose veins.

Varicose Veins Treatment

Not all varicose veins will need treatment. Jeremy Newman has years of experience as a vascular consultant and will provide expert assessment and investigation of your veins and will quickly be able to suggest the best course of treatments and options for your varicose veins. He can also help with cosmetic removal and treatments which are unavailable through the NHS. Treatment of varicose veins becomes important when varicose veins are painful, if they cause the surrounding skin to become sore or inflamed, or if painful veins begin to interfere with your sleep.