Understanding How Spider Veins Form

Last updated 3 months ago

Spider veins are a nuisance that many adult men and women face. They are most commonly seen on the legs, but can also appear on the face and upper body. Unlike varicose veins, which can be large and painful, spider veins are small in diameter and tend to appear in web-like designs colored red, purple, or blue. Although they do not pose a medical concern, spider veins can make patients feel self-conscious.

Spider veins may be caused by a backflow of blood within superficial veins in the legs, where the blood vessels are under incredible pressure from the weight of the body. In these cases, the veins are typically the result of prolonged actions such as sitting or standing for extended periods, crossing the legs while sitting, and even wearing tight clothing. There are also other factors that may contribute to spider veins:

Hormones: When the body experiences hormonal changes, spider veins may appear. Because women have more hormone-related shifts in their body chemistry, they are more likely to see spider veins.

Sun exposure: Spider veins on the face are most often the result of sun exposure, especially in fair-skinned individuals. The sun’s harmful UV rays can cause the skin to become thinner, while the blood vessels become weakened.

Poor nutrition: A diet that is not rich in a wide spectrum of vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants can contribute to unhealthy veins. Shift your diet to include a broader range of fresh fruits and vegetables—this will give your blood vessels the nutrient boost needed to prevent spider veins. Staying hydrated throughout the day also improves circulation.

If you are sick of hiding your legs or face because of spider veins, contact Tritt Aesthetic & Plastic Center, an Atlanta ENT associate. We offer quick and simple Asclera sclerotherapy to restore the beauty of your skin. Visit our website or call (678) 733-9732 for more information.

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