Summary about Disease
Broken capillaries, also known as spider veins (telangiectasia) or broken blood vessels, are small, dilated blood vessels visible near the surface of the skin. They appear as fine red, purple, or blue lines, often resembling spiderwebs or branches. While generally harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern for some individuals. They typically occur on the face (nose, cheeks, chin) and legs.
Symptoms
Fine, visible red, purple, or blue lines or networks on the skin.
The lines might resemble spiderwebs, branches, or thin threads.
They are usually flat and do not cause pain or itching, although rarely some individuals may feel a slight burning sensation.
Location: commonly on the face (especially around the nose, cheeks, and chin) and legs.
Causes
Sun exposure: UV radiation damages skin and blood vessels.
Aging: Skin becomes thinner and less elastic, making blood vessels more visible.
Genetics: Predisposition to developing broken capillaries can be inherited.
Changes in Weather: Exposure to extreme weather can cause skin irritation and lead to broken capillaries
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, puberty, and menopause.
Rosacea: A skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels on the face.
Injuries or trauma: Bruises or other injuries can damage capillaries.
Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can dilate blood vessels.
Pressure changes: forceful sneezing, vomiting, or childbirth can cause them.
Certain medical conditions: Such as liver disease or scleroderma.
Topical Corticosteroids: Prolonged use can thin the skin
Medicine Used
Topical creams: Retinoids and certain vitamin K creams may help reduce their appearance over time, but results are often minimal.
Sclerotherapy: Involves injecting a solution directly into the affected blood vessels, causing them to collapse and fade. Commonly used for leg veins.
Laser therapy: Uses focused light to heat and destroy the blood vessels. This is a common treatment for facial spider veins.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Similar to laser therapy, IPL uses broad-spectrum light to target and eliminate broken capillaries.
Radiofrequency ablation: Uses radiofrequency energy to heat and close off the affected blood vessels.
Is Communicable
No, broken capillaries are not communicable. They are not caused by an infection and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Sun protection: Wear sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher) and limit sun exposure.
Gentle skincare: Use mild, non-irritating cleansers and moisturizers.
Avoid harsh scrubbing: Be gentle when washing or exfoliating your skin.
Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can dilate blood vessels.
Manage rosacea: If you have rosacea, follow your dermatologist's recommendations for treatment.
Avoid picking or squeezing: This can damage the skin and worsen the appearance of broken capillaries.
Consider compression stockings: For leg veins, compression stockings can help improve circulation and reduce pressure on blood vessels.
Avoid extreme temperatures: Protect your skin from extreme hot or cold temperatures
How long does an outbreak last?
Broken capillaries themselves do not have "outbreaks" in the same way a rash or infection would. Once a capillary is broken and visible, it will remain unless treated. The appearance might fluctuate slightly with changes in skin tone or temperature, but the broken capillary will persist. Treatment aims to eliminate or reduce the visibility of the existing broken capillaries. New ones can appear over time depending on individual risk factors and lifestyle.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on visual examination by a doctor or dermatologist. In most cases, no further testing is required. The characteristic appearance of the fine, red or purple lines is typically sufficient for diagnosis. A doctor will assess the location, pattern, and any associated symptoms to rule out other potential conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
There isn't a specific "timeline" as they appear gradually over time. They don't typically emerge suddenly.
Initial Stage: A slight redness or flushing in the area, which may be intermittent.
Gradual Development: Over time (weeks, months, or years), the blood vessels become more visible and distinct.
Progression: The spider veins might expand or new ones may appear in the same or adjacent areas if the underlying causes are not addressed.
Important Considerations
Cosmetic vs. Medical: While usually a cosmetic concern, broken capillaries can sometimes be associated with underlying medical conditions. See a doctor if you have concerns about the appearance or if they are accompanied by pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms.
Treatment Expectations: Treatment can effectively reduce or eliminate the appearance of broken capillaries, but new ones can still develop over time. Maintenance treatments and lifestyle modifications may be necessary to prevent recurrence.
Professional Evaluation: If you are considering treatment, consult with a qualified dermatologist or vascular specialist to determine the most appropriate approach for your specific situation.
Leg Veins: Significant leg veins should be evaluated for venous insufficiency by a physician.