1. Teleangiectasias

Telangiectasias, also known as ‘broken capillaries’ or ‘spider veins’, are networks of thin, dilated capillaries visible just below the surface of the skin. They often appear on the face and legs and appear as red, purple or blue thread-like lines. They are usually not accompanied by pain or discomfort and are primarily an aesthetic problem. The causes range from genetic predisposition and hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause), to excessive sun exposure, temperature changes, rosacea or other skin conditions. Although they do not pose a direct health hazard, their frequent occurrence can be an early signal of deeper vascular disorders, especially when combined with swelling or a feeling of heaviness in the legs.

2. Recticular veins

Reticular veins are deeper located than capillaries, but still visible under the skin. They usually have a blue-green tinge, larger in diameter than telangiectasias, but do not form convex curves like varicose veins. They often occur behind the knees, on the inner thighs or on the lateral part of the calves. Although they can sometimes cause mild tension or discomfort, in most cases they are also seen as an aesthetic problem. Interestingly, telangiectasias often develop around them, indicating impaired microcirculation in the area.

3. Varicose Veins

The most recognizable and common are varicose veins – large, swollen, bulging veins that have an unnatural, curved and twisted shape. They are the result of damage to the venous valves, which normally prevent blood from flowing backward under the influence of gravity. When these valves become loose or stop working effectively, blood begins to pool in the veins of the lower extremities, increasing pressure and leading to their expansion and deformation.Varicose veins most often appear on the lower legs, the back of the knees, or the inner thighs. They are often accompanied by symptoms such as pain, a feeling of heaviness, swelling, burning, itching, or night cramps in the legs. In advanced cases, skin changes may occur – darkening, thickening, peeling, or even venous ulcers, which are difficult to heal and extremely painful.

4. Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency is a more serious condition in which the venous system can no longer provide an effective return of blood from the legs to the heart. This leads to permanent blood retention, swelling, pain, skin changes and in the worst cases – trophic ulcers. This condition often develops progressively and can be a consequence of long-term untreated varicose veins, recurrent thrombosis or congenital valve abnormalities. Early diagnosis and treatment are of key importance, as the consequences of venous insufficiency can seriously impair the quality of life and lead to debilitating complications.

What are the preventions against varicose veins and capillaries?

While genetic predisposition cannot be changed, there are a number of ways to reduce the risk or slow the development of venous diseases:

Maintain physical activity: walking, cycling, swimming, yoga – all of which stimulate venous outflow.

Avoid prolonged standing or sitting: when working at a desk or standing, move around every 30–40 minutes.

Use special compression stockings: when traveling, pregnant or at risk of occupational diseases.

Elevate your legs in the evening: rest with your legs slightly higher than the level of your heart.

Limit salt in your diet: it retains fluids and increases swelling.

Maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking.

Avoid hot baths, solariums and prolonged exposure to the sun.