Are spider veins on stomach/arms/back normal?

Question

I know spider veins on legs are common, and I've always had those. However, I've noticed a few on my arms/stomach. Is this normal? They're very tiny, but they're worrying me because I always thought of spider veins as a leg problem, or something face with sun exposure. I should mention I've very very fair skinned.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

It’s important to distinguish between varicose veins and spider veins when choosing between laser therapy, sclerotherapy, and vein surgery. With two board certified vein specialists, our center uses a combination of visual examination, functional flow measurements, ultrasound, transillumination, and infrared light to map out vein networks prior to therapy. Lasers can be used to treat deep varicose vein insufficiency, vein perforators, and varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is ideal for spider veins and reticular veins. Whereas surgery is reserved for severely incompetent varicose vein segments.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Michael Nguyen, MD · Answer

Consider a visit to a vein specialist who you can trust for a complete evaluation if this changes you see are worrisome for you. Your physician will be able to determine if they are something you should be worried about. It is always important to follow up on our healthcare, ask questions, and make informed health care decisions. 
All the best,

Amy J. Holland, MD · Answer

Hi,
Yes the very very fair skinned population has seemingly more spider veins and likely it is just because they seem to be more readily seen...
Would be a good idea to have a physical examination to assure no need for alarm.
And then laser vein removal of these tiny spider veins is so Easy Peasy!
Best of luck,
Dr. Amy

John Landi, MD · Answer

Spider veins can occur anywhere on the body and sometimes we cannot explain why they occur.  Most of the time these veins are more prominent in fair skinned individuals.  Spider veins in not the usual places are usually due to genetics, sun exposure or hormonally related.  Occasionally they may be a sign of underlying medical problems.  See a vein specialist.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Not necessarily. Some have very thin skin and sun damage can promote the formation of such spider veins in the areas you list. See a vein specialist for formal evaluation.Hratch L Karamanoukian MD FACScertified vein specialist (ABVLM) and double board certified surgeon

Nicole Kafka, MD · Answer

Spider veins can be present anywhere in the body. In most cases, they don't represent anything bad. If there are just a few and they are tiny, it is almost certainly ok. If you have many or are developing more, I recommend you see your doctor as this may be a sign of liver disease, autoimmune disease, or drug/medication side effect.

Manu B. Aggarwal, MD · Answer

Spider veins can be normal on the body (and most of the time they are) but they can also indicate underlying liver problems or related to medications (like Tamoxifen). I would recommend just having an appointment with your primary care physician to go over your medications and look over the areas and perhaps check liver function testing. I have  seen spider veins form from bra straps and areas where pressure is too much or clothing is too tight. Good luck! Good question!

Are spider veins on stomach/arms/back normal?

Answers (7)

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