“Is that a spider vein on my nose? But, I’m not old yet!” Does this situation sound familiar? Spider veins can affect anyone! Many people are under the impression that only older men and women develop spider veins on their skin, specifically in the face. This is just not true. Any person, of any age or gender, can develop these spider veins.
Well, why do they develop? And, what are spider veins exactly? Spider veins, also referred to as telangiectasias, are small, thin veins that are close to the surface of the skin. They are not essential to the body and the venous system, but do connect to that system. They are flat, don’t usually cause pain, and usually do not lead to any serious health problems, unlike a varicose vein.
If you find a spider vein on your face or body, there are several reasons it could have appeared. Some reasons include: genetics, hormonal shifts, weight gain, pregnancy, prolonged sitting or standing, and certain medications. Even runners can develop spider veins. Runners’ legs take a pounding, and the body’s vascular system comes under great stress and pressure during this motion. This extra pressure makes the veins expand and spider veins can appear on the legs, especially behind the knees.
A spider vein appears from increased pressure on the veins. As a person gets older, it is easier for spider veins to emerge because the veins’ walls are weaker and succumb to the pressure. For this reason, spider veins are more apparent in older individuals.
Fortunately, for the most part, spider veins are not dangerous; they are mostly a cosmetic issue. If you have spider veins, you don’t need to worry; however, it wouldn’t hurt to show them to your doctor just to make sure. There are some rare genetic conditions that can cause spider veins.
If you don’t want to live with your spider veins, sclerotherapy treatment helps the spider-like lines appear lighter. You may have to be treated several times throughout your life if you are genetically predisposed to these veins. Spider vein treatments only treat veins that are currently visible; they cannot prevent a future occurrence.
Spider veins, often, are just unsightly and do not pose a risk to your health. If you hate the way they look, Dr. Peter Mikhail can treat them for you. Dr. Mikhail treats patients in Tampa, Clearwater, and New Port Richey, Florida. To book a consult with Dr. Mikhail, click here or call 727-312-4844.
Author Info
No Comments