Spider veins, also known as telangiectasia, develop when tiny blood vessels near your skin’s surface enlarge because of weakened valves. Although it is impossible to anticipate whether you will get spider veins, a few key factors are known to increase your chances of developing red-blue-purple veins on your face or legs. The following are the leading risk factors for spider veins New York:
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1. Age
You are more likely to have spider veins as you become older. This might be due to normal age-related variations in your vein walls.
2. Sitting with your legs crossed
Sitting with your legs crossed for a short time might have the same impact as prolonged sitting. Crossing your legs reduces blood flow and weakens your vein valves and muscles.
3. Immobility
If you have a profession that demands a lot of sitting or standing, or if you live a sedentary lifestyle, you are more likely to develop spider veins. Immobility impairs circulation in the legs, where muscle contractions are required to push blood up your veins.
Alternate your weight between your legs to keep the blood circulating if you have to stand for a long time. Also, get up every 20 or 30 minutes and go for a brief stroll if you spend a lot of time sitting.
4. Pregnancy and hormonal changes
Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause might raise the risk of spider veins in the face and legs. Progesterone and estrogen cause veins to dilate, pulling on the valves and allowing blood to flow oppositely.
Additionally, pregnancy increases the chance of spider veins in your legs even more. The baby’s weight puts pressure on the veins in the legs. Blood volume rises as well, stretching the veins even further.
5. Exposure to sunlight
Sun exposure may produce spider veins on your face or legs for the same reason that hormonal changes can – warm temperatures widen the veins just enough to cause spider veins.
6. Obese or being overweight
Extra weight strains veins, causing them to expand and weaken the valves.
Common tips to help prevent spider veins
Certain lifestyle adjustments and self-care practices can help prevent new spider veins from forming or prevent existing ones from worsening. These include the following;
- Protect your skin from sunlight using sunscreen and wearing a hat and sunglasses.
- Use mild cleansers on the skin (like those without dyes or fragrances).
- Avoid utilizing topical steroids.
- Minimize your exposure to severe hot or cold temperatures.
Spider veins cause damaged veins or ruptured blood vessels. They are usually painless and do not result in health issues, although some individuals might choose to have them treated for cosmetic reasons.
Several treatment options can help enhance the appearance of spider veins or eliminate them. It is always necessary to visit a certified healthcare expert specializing in dermatology, vein care, or cosmetic or plastic surgery for medical operations. Call Upper East Side Cardiology to schedule your appointment today to find out which spider vein treatments suit you.