6 Reasons People Get Spider Veins

Every day, vein doctors see otherwise healthy patients who are plagued by unsightly, visible blood vessels called varicose veins. Many patients are confused because they’re not sure how these problem veins develop, and they’re also frustrated because medical research hasn’t yet pointed out an exact cause. Though it is almost impossible to determine the exact origin of these veins, certain behaviors may make a person more likely to develop issues. Because spider veins are typically related to the elevated pressure in blood vessels, activities that lead to a pressure increase in the patient’s legs are often to blame. Below are some of the most common causes of vein problems.

Continuous Standing


Many vein patients are waiters, nurses, and others who spend an entire workday on their feet. If a person has a job that requires them to stand almost all day, they may be more likely to develop vein problems. This is thought to be due to the body making an extra effort to carry blood up from the legs to the heart, and when a person spends most of their time on their feet, additional strain is placed on the blood vessels.

Hormonal Fluctuations


In some cases, female hormones affect a patient’s tendency to develop varicose veins. Birth control pills, pregnancy, puberty, and hormone therapy can cause these problematic veins to appear.


Constriction or Injury


Some patients encounter vein problems after an injury or because they wear tight socks and hosiery. Varicosity is the result of poor circulation, and during vein treatments, patients are often advised to avoid tight girdles, socks, and pantyhose.

Genetics


Some people have problems simply because they’re genetically predisposed to them. Almost half of all patients who have vein problems have a relative who’s had them as well.

Excessive Sun Exposure


When a person spends too much time in the sun, they may be more likely to have issues with their veins. Excessive sun exposure can weaken the veins that are closest to the skin’s surface.

Weight Gain


It’s quite common for patients to notice bulging veins on their bodies after they’ve gained a bit of weight. When a patient gains weight, additional pressure is put on the legs, as well as the blood vessels running from the legs up to the heart.

These common reasons might explain why someone has developed vein varicosity. By limiting activities and behaviors that cause vein issues, a person can try to keep them from coming back after they’re removed.

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