Reticular Veins

Varicose, spider, and reticular veins are the three types of visible blood vessels caused by circulation issues. While varicose veins

appear as large, bulging vessels, spider veins look like small, thin, purple or red lines. Reticular veins are thin blue or green dilated vessels ranging in size from 1mm to 3mm in diameter. Reticular veins typically are larger than spider veins, but smaller than varicose veins.

People sometimes refer to reticular veins as “feeder veins” because they branch into other spider veins. The development of reticular veins can increase the number of visible spider veins. The location of reticular veins differs from that of spider and varicose veins. Reticular veins typically develop on the back of the leg or around the ankles or knees.

When you have reticular veins, you can often see them as blue or green vessels, sometimes accompanied by spider veins. However, many cases of vein disease exist with no visible signs. Instead, they cause leg discomfort and a range of other symptoms. You might have a vein disease like reticular veins if you experience leg issues such as:

• Burning
• Itching
• Redness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Restless Legs

If you have pain or discomfort in your legs that you can’t explain, you could have reticular veins or another vein problem. Many types of vein disease cause no immediate harm. However, they can develop into more severe health problems such as blood clots or venous ulcers when they go undiagnosed. Visiting a specialist at Care Life Clinic will allow you to get a diagnosis and decide on a treatment that’s right for you.

Let our vein specialists help you live a better life. They can diagnose your symptoms and recommend a course of treatment that addresses the underlying condition. When you treat the root cause of the issue, you can live a healthier, more active life.