Spider Veins in Ellicott City, MD

Spiders veins in Ellicott City, MD, are extremely common and can pose cosmetic as well as circulatory issues. One of the best ways to protect yourself against these weblike veins is understanding the causes of spider veins and limiting the associated risk factors.

Read on to learn the pathology and top causes of spider veins in Ellicott City, MD.

What Are Spider Veins?

Spider veins are superficial dilated vessels that have a lacey appearance and are typically red or purple. They often present on the legs, lower extremities, and face and are a direct result of venous stasis.

Venous stasis occurs when diseased or damaged valves allow blood to pool inside of veins. This leads to vein enlargement and skin discoloration.

Top Causes of Spider Veins

Hereditary

One of the top causes of spider veins is genetics. If your mother, grandmother, or another family member has vein disease, you’ll be more prone to spider veins.

Prolonged Periods of Sitting or Standing

If you are on your feet or seated for much of the day, leg veins have to work harder to transport blood back the heart. Accordingly, it’s important to keep legs elevated while sitting and take breaks to walk around and increase circulation.

Weight Gain

Extra pounds place added pressure on veins, which increases your risk for spider veins. A nutritious diet that’s high in fiber and low in sodium can help keep weight in-check and prevent leg veins.

Hormonal Influences

Puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and birth control pills can affect hormones and make spider veins more likely.

Sun Exposure

We all know that the sun’s UV rays can wreak havoc on the skin and lead to premature signs of aging. Sun exposure can also make you more vulnerable to facial spider veins, especially around the nose.

Learn More About Treatment Options

If you would like additional information about the top causes of spider veins, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled and experienced vein specialists.