Similar to varicose veins, spider veins on legs are often caused by the backup of blood in the veins. Sometimes, when the tiny valves, which are located in the leg veins become weak, instead of all of the blood traveling towards the heart, the blood may slip backward into the veins, causing what is known as spider veins. These are characterized by red or blue veins that look like spider webs or tree branches. These veins are nearer to the skin than varicose veins are and they are also much smaller.
Hormonal changes can also cause spider veins and certain medications and prescriptions that contain progesterone and estrogen may also contribute to spider veins. Woman experiencing menopause or puberty may also be more likely to get spider veins because of the hormonal changes. In addition, exposure to the sun may also be a factor and some injuries can result in spider veins.
Age is also a factor when it comes to abnormal veins in the legs. This is because the valves in the leg veins that normally keep the blood from backing up can become weaker over time. When this happens, the blood can back up in the veins and the familiar pattern of spider veins can develop. Some individuals are actually born with weak vein valves and this can cause the unsightly pattern to develop as well. If someone in your family has spider veins, it could be an indication that you could get them too simply because the condition runs in families.
While you cannot prevent all occurrences of spider veins, there are things you can do to decrease your risk for abnormal leg veins. For one thing, exercising your legs can have a big impact on the prevention of spider veins because as the strength of your legs increase, so will your vein strength. Improved leg circulation may also help to prevent spider veins on your legs. This is another area where exercise can be beneficial.
Obesity can also produce spider veins simply because of the extra pressure that is on your legs; therefore, weight control can play a major part in the prevention of these unsightly veins on your legs. In addition, avoid standing or sitting for a long stretch of time whenever possible. If you are able to take short breaks and walk around a bit, this can help. Just try to avoid standing or sitting in one position for a long time.
While you may not have complete control over the incidence of spider veins on legs, you can significantly decrease your risk by following the above suggestions.