If you have squiggly veins that look twisted and turned, it could result from hardcore physical exercise and training, but it is more likely spider, reticular, or varicose veins. Sometimes squiggly veins are merely a cosmetic issue, while other times it may be a health issue such as varicose veins that could lead to blood clots or ulcers if left untreated for too long. Learn more about squiggly veins and what they mean with the vein treatment experts at Vein Care.
Spider Veins in Arms
Spider veins are tiny blood vessels that twist just beneath the skin’s surface, usually in the arms, legs and face. These red or blue squiggly veins begin as a cosmetic issue, but if you notice them in your arms and don’t get them treated, you may be at higher risk of aches, skin ulcers or dermatitis. In terms of colour, spider veins range from bluish-purple to light pinkish-red, so the easiest way to tell them apart from other types of veins is by the minuscule size.
Short, squiggly lines of veins in your arms and legs could be spider veins, which are less than 1mm in diameter and close to the surface. Spider veins may be asymptomatic as a milder type of varicose veins, although some people feel mild discomfort. Sclerotherapy and microsclerotherapy are the preferred options for getting rid of spider veins.
Reticular Veins in Arms
Reticular veins are similar to spider veins, except they are slightly larger, around 2mm in diameter. Unlike varicose veins, reticular veins don’t push up against the skin, but you may see them along your arms as well as the inner back areas of the legs, ankles and thighs. If you see squiggly veins in a cluster on your arms, leg or face and the area is tender to the touch, it may be reticular veins.
Remember, squiggly veins that look larger and flatter than spider veins could be reticular veins, which are less twisty and prominent than full-on varicose veins. Small reticular veins are green or blue and may cause itching and burning, which is why sclerotherapy is often used to treat them at local vein clinics.
Varicose Veins in Arms
Squiggly veins in arms may also indicate varicose veins, particularly if they are larger and right at the surface. Although there are more health risks associated with varicose veins in Melbourne, cutting-edge vein treatments and simple lifestyle changes, help with varicose veins prevention.
When it comes to varicose veins, these squiggly veins are hard to miss due to the visible twisting and enlargement, as well as potentially painful symptoms of itching, burning and swelling. A visit to your local vein clinic can confirm the best options for arm varicose veins prevention and management.
Best Vein Treatments for Varicose Veins in Melbourne
Now that you’re more familiar with squiggly veins in arms and what they mean, you may want to explore your options for removing varicose veins in Melbourne. Speak to the experts in varicose veins prevention and treatment at Vein Care vein clinics in Camberwell, Boronia and Sydenham.
