What Are Reticular Veins?
Reticular veins are a type of enlarged vein similar to varicose veins and spider veins. Also called feeder veins or blue veins, they’re located just beneath the surface of the skin and are smaller than varicose veins but often have the same rope-like appearance. Our discussion about reticular veins will include how to identify them, what kind of symptoms you might experience, and what your treatment options are for eliminating them.
Reticular veins are usually located on the back of the legs, typically close to the knee, They can also be found on the inner thighs and near the ankles. They are larger than the spider veins and therefore, carry more blood. They often feed into spider veins. Therefore, spider veins can result from refluxing reticular veins. They may appear either blue, green, or purple in color, and often have a jagged appearance. They come in various shapes, including a straight line, a spider-web like structure, and a tree-like design.
These veins often develop because of increase pressure, and like varicose veins, heredity plays a large role in influencing who’s most at risk of developing them. Reticular veins are often caused by an underlying condition, such as venous insufficiency. Like varicose veins, reticular veins can cause some pain and discomfort and are not merely a cosmetic issue. They often branch out from varicose veins, and can indicate significant varicose veins deep in the leg that might not be easily visible through the skin. While heredity is a major contributing factor to the development of reticular veins, there may be other causes as well. These include standing or sitting for extended periods, pregnancy, excess weight, hormonal imbalances, and having had blood clots in the past.
At Alpha Vein Clinic, we have extensive knowledge of vein-related problems as well as experience treating everything from small spider veins to large painful varicose veins. We can provide a definitive diagnosis for any vein problems you might be experiencing, as well as create a treatment plan tailored just to you. Book an appointment today and start experiencing relief soon.
Alpha Vein Clinic
3150 N. Tenaya Way Ste. 400
Las Vegas, NV, 89128
(702) 430 7661
Dr. Sassan Kaveh
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