Causes of Spider Veins

Spider veins are a common condition among many adults. They are recognized as a cluster of tiny web-like structures close to the surface of the skin. Spider veins are caused by an unhealthy valve inside your veins that will not allow the blood to flow normally. The blood will then flow backwards instead of against gravity where it is supposed to be returning to the heart. This results in a vein that it clogged and no longer functional for the flow of blood.

How Does This Happen?

The exact cause of spider veins is difficult to pin on one culprit. We know that they are mainly caused by pressure in the veins, however the reason for the pressure has been uncertain from case to case. Many ideas are believed to be primary contributing factors to the condition of these visible veins.

A few of the sources known to have a tendency to contribute include: genetics, stress, age, sun damage, pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement.  Inactivity can cause visible veins due to the lack of muscle movement.  Your muscles help the veins to push the blood back up toward the heart and when your muscles are motionless, this process places more pressure on your veins. It is also common for individuals who have jobs that required standing for long periods of time to have an increased amount of pressure on the veins in their legs. Some professions that contribute to spider veins include teachers, factory workers, nurses, and hairstylist. Women have a higher likelihood of acquiring spider veins than men do. This is suggested to be related to hormones women possess.

Extra weight can also put pressure on the veins. Too much fat tissue around your organs or under the skin causes more pressure on the vessels in your legs. This increase in pressure dilates the veins, making it difficult for blood to see it’s way through.

Other Contributors?

Lifestyle is another contributor of unsightly veins. Individuals who are not active may have a greater chance of obtaining spider veins. Exercise is said to reduce the chances of appearance. Obesity can increase your chances of acquiring visible web-like veins as you have more pressure on your veins. Smoking restricts blood from flowing easily through your body by reducing circulatory function.

If you would like to learn more about how your condition, contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Norman Chideckel for the treatment of spider veins today.