Even though they are common, spider veins can still leave you feeling subconscious about your appearance. Found on the legs and face, these veins are called such because they are a web of veins that spread underneath your skin. The good news is they are rarely harmful. The even better news is they can be treated. In fact, Revive Medical Center treats patients with these veins all the time.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Age is the primary cause of these veins. Veins appear when superficial blood vessels dilate, i.e. spread. This spreading is caused by additional pressure in the veins and it is what gives spider veins their web-like appearance. People often find the veins on the backs of their knees and around their noses as they get older, but there are additional causes of these veins unrelated to your years.
Genetics is one such cause, as studies have shown that spider veins can be hereditary. Another common cause of vein disorders is excessive standing, as this increases the pressure in and dilation of your veins. Those who teach, nurse, do hair or have another job that requires constant standing are more likely to get spider veins than those you are seated throughout the day.
You’re Not Alone
Spider veins are extremely common, so you shouldn’t be ashamed if you have them. In fact, in a study of 1,566 people, 84 percent of them had these veins. For the most part, aside from their appearance, they aren’t bothersome. In some cases, however, people who have these veins can also suffer from heaviness, swelling and tiredness in their legs.
Prevention
You can reduce your risk for developing spider veins as you age by keeping fit and active. Don’t stand for excessive periods but don’t sit for hours, either. Rather, hop up every 30 minutes and walk around. Aerobic exercise, such as jogging or running, also helps prevent vein disorders, as do compression stockings. When you relax in the evening, kick your feet up above your heart for added prevention.
Treatments
Even if you do your best to avoid these veins yet you still end up saddled with them, there are effective treatments to reduce them. Laser treatment is excellent for making small veins disappear. Sclerotherapy is a more common vein treatment and it tackles the problem by collapsing the vein to prevent blood flow. The vein disappears weeks after treatment.
If you are bothered by spider veins, call Revive Medical Center in Lawrenceville, GA, to set up an appointment. We will discuss the causes of your spider veins with you and recommend the appropriate therapy.
