Spider veins occur due to weakness or damage in the veins. They are usually blue, red, or purple and appear like branches or webs on the legs or face. They are also called thread veins. The condition is not painful or harmful, but people may wish to treat them for cosmetic reasons. They occur when the valves weaken and blood backflows, accumulating inside veins. Then blood builds pressure within veins, making them swell and visible from under the skin.
Causes of Spider Veins
Vein valves can weaken for several reasons, such as –
Age – The valves lose elasticity and strength, so the muscles surrounding the veins may weaken. Veins find it difficult to pump blood without the help of muscles.
Gender – Women are more likely to develop spider veins and varicose veins. Pregnancy and menopause dilate the veins, which can lead to blood pooling. During pregnancy, the body produces more blood which can strain veins. Spider veins, if caused by pregnancy, disappear after birth. Moreover, even birth control affects veins and blood circulation.
Sedentary lifestyle – If your work demands sitting for long hours without mobility or prefers being seated for long hours without movement, you are more likely to develop it. Even a lack of exercise can affect blood flow and can cause it.
Obesity – If you are obese or carry extra weight, those pounds can likely stress veins and weaken their walls.
Heredity – If your family has spider veins, you are more likely to develop them.
Sun damage – Sun exposure can damage your capillaries and develop spider veins on the face.
Tight clothing – If you wear tight clothing, it can interfere with the blood flow and likely cause spider veins.
Things You Can Do
Diet – It is vital to look after your diet. Eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and E and bioflavonoids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to maintain your vein health. Lemons, oranges, broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach can boost circulation.
Exercise – Doing any physical activity daily is quite crucial for your health. Walking for 30 minutes a day can improve your overall health. Try out activities like swimming, biking, or others that can improve your blood circulation.
If you are looking for solutions to treat your spider veins, our treatment methods can help. To learn more about it, schedule an appointment with Clarity Medical Spa at (408) 599-3088 today.