This is not accurate. Ulcers mostly develop in those with clinically obvious varicose veins. However, there are patients with non-visible varicose veins under the skin who develop ulcers as well. If you have symptoms, regardless of whether you have spider or varicose veins, it is best to obtain an ultrasound to search for hidden vein abnormalities.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Spider veins typically do not progress to skin ulcers. However, varicose veins can.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Untreated spider veins usually do not become leg ulcers, unless they were really big. I suppose if there was a lot of stagnant blood in those veins the tissue would not receive the oxygen it needs, and so there could be a risk of ulceration in that case. But I have never heard of spider veins causing ulceration in the legs. The cause of ulceration in the legs is the lack of oxygen to the tissue. The tissue dies or its ability to heal becomes impaired; there is an abrasion to the affected area and the tissue is unable to heal.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins are associated with venous ulcers.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Generally not, unless associated with other venous disease.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Not unless there is underlying varicose vein disease.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No. Spider veins can be a sign of more significant venous insufficiency such as saphenous vein insufficiency but they also can just be caused by changes in the skin. Spider veins caused by only changes in the local skin do not lead to leg ulcers. This is far more common.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No, that information is inaccurate. Spider veins generally do not become ulcers.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No, they don't in and of themselves become ulcers, but they might be a sign of more significant underlying vein disease that may lead to ulcers in the future.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The answer is no, but spider veins could be a sign of more significant underlying vein pathology. You should be evaluated by a vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Spider veins will not turn into leg ulcers. If there is no underlying saphenous reflux to cause a backflow of blood in the veins, a few spider veins will not cause anything but cosmetic problems. If you are experiencing pain, heaviness, aching or other symptoms in your lower legs, you should have a thorough examination including ultrasound by an experienced surgeon specializing in vein treatment to rule out deeper issues.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Generally, spider veins do not cause ulcers by themselves. However, if you have an underlying vein problem that is causing the spider veins, then that could contribute to ulcers. I would recommend you have an ultrasound if you are having any symptoms such as heaviness, swelling, varicose veins or any other
unusual symptoms in your legs.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Spider veins do not cause ulcers. Venous insufficiency in the saphenous veins and/or incompetent
perforator veins underlying the "gaiter" area are the main cause. A duplex ultrasound/Doppler exam can diagnose this.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No. Leg ulcers occur on legs that have large varicose veins that remain untreated for a number of years.

Published on Jul 11, 2012