Spider Veins

Spider veins are usually found in the thighs, ankles, and feet and look like thin web-like lines spread over the surface of the skin. There are various causes of spider veins including:

• Venous Insufficiency: Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the vein valves in your legs are working improperly, allowing blood to pool in the veins.
• Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can be a cause of spider veins most commonly for people with fair skin.
• Pregnancy: The weight of your growing uterus puts pressure on your legs during pregnancy and can lead to the appearance of spider veins.
• Hormones: Hormone changes can cause spider veins.
• Weight Gain: People who are overweight are likely to develop spider veins because the pressure of added weight can sometimes damage the veins in your legs.
• Heredity: If someone in your family has spider veins, you are more likely to develop them.
• Injury: Injury or trauma to the vein can often damage or weaken the vein wall and produce the appearance of spider veins.
• Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Sitting or standing for long periods of time may lead to the appearance of spider veins because of the constant stress on the veins in your legs.
• Certain Medications: Certain medications can affect your blood flow and cause spider veins.

Spider veins, though a result of damage to the vein system, do not affect your circulation. The veins are a small part of the circulatory system so the weakening of them poses no medical harm, simply the appearance of spider veins.

Spider Vein Treatment

Spider vein treatment can include minor medical procedures to remove the weakened veins. Most people seek spider vein treatment for cosmetic, not medical, purposes. One simple and non-surgical treatment your doctor may recommend is wearing graduated support stockings or support socks.


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This is only general information and is not meant for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Always consult your physician or other health care provider about all health concerns, conditions, and recommended treatments.