Spider veins are a common condition found across elderly patients and those who have experienced poor blood flow in their legs. Millions of patients have been diagnosed with this superficial condition each year. Here are five things you may not know about spider veins:
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Primarily Hereditary
All forms of vein disease are primarily hereditary, including spider veins. If you have someone in your family who has experienced spider veins, it is recommended for you to be evaluated if symptoms start to arise. The likelihood of developing spider veins increases to approximately 40% if that family member is one of your parents.
Can Be Caused by Pregnancy
Pregnancy can place a variety of stressors upon the body, including increased stress on the veins, leading to the development of spider veins. This is primarily caused by increased pressure to the inferior vena cava and the increased production of hormones in the body. Luckily, the appearance of spider veins improves in the year following childbirth.
Superficial Veins
As mentioned earlier, spider veins are a superficial condition, meaning that the impacted veins are a cosmetic issue, not a medical one. Spider vein treatments will not place a significant strain on your body and are typically noninvasive in nature. Spider veins appear easier due to how close they are to the surface of your skin.
Here is Important Thing to Know About Spider Veins: They are Different Than Varicose Veins
Whats important to know about spider veins is that while spider veins are superficial, varicose veins are not. Spider veins are commonly misidentified as varicose veins, but the two are completely different. While spider veins do not result in any life-threatening risks, varicose veins can lead to more serious conditions, as they are a progressive condition that can worsen into ulcers or even deep vein thrombosis. By choosing a knowledgeable cosmetic physician, you can be assured of the correct diagnosis.
Exercise Can Help
One of the best ways to prevent spider veins from developing is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including consistent exercise. Having a consistent routine will help improve your blood circulation and help you keep a healthy weight. Any kind of exercises can help with your blood flow, including walking, jogging, running, swimming, hiking, and much more.
Choosing the Skin and Vein Center
If you are looking for additional information on spider veins, please do not hesitate to contact the Skin and Vein Center. Our highly-trained team is led by the knowledgeable Dr. Seiger, who has specialized in a variety of spider vein treatments. Call us today for your free consultation on how spider vein treatment can help reduce the appearance of spider veins.