If you’ve noticed a veiny discoloration forming on your feet, you may have spider veins. Here’s everything you need to know about spider vein cause feet, how they affect your overall health, and how you can prevent them from forming in the future.
What Are Spider Veins on Feet?
Spider veins (telangiectasias) are thin veins near the surface of the skin that have become very visible and are red, blue, or purple in color due to the fact that blood vessels are damaged and have stopped distributing blood effectively. They most commonly form on legs, especially ankles and feet.
What Are Common Spider Vein Causes on Feet
Over 50% of women and 45% of men suffer from spider veins at some point in their lives. Let’s go over the top 5 known causes of spider veins.
Genetic Predisposition
The number one cause of spider veins is genetics. If there is a family history of spider veins on feet, you will most likely get them at some point as well. While there’s not much you can do about genetics, if you’re aware of the family history, you can work on preventing them.
Prolonged Standing or Sitting
People who are used to standing or sitting for long periods of time have an increased chance of developing spider veins because there is constant pressure on the blood vessels of your feet.
Obesity and Weight Gain
Another factor that significantly affects the development of spider veins is obesity and excessive weight gain. Being overweight increases pressure in the blood vessels, which makes them more prone to damage.
Being Pregnant
Spider veins often develop during pregnancy, mostly because of hormonal changes, which are known cause. Besides pregnancy, taking hormonal birth control or hormone therapy for menopause symptoms can also affect spider veins development.
Aging and Weakened Veins
Studies show that people are more likely to get spider veins as they get older, especially after the age of 80.
How the Spider Veins Affect Your Foot Health?
Even though they can sometimes look scary, spider veins are mostly harmless and nothing to worry about. They aren’t harmful, except in some rare cases when they’re an early sign of chronic venous insufficiency. Besides their appearance, spider veins don’t cause other problems or concerns.
They Can Cause Discomfort and Pain
Even though they aren’t dangerous, spider veins can cause a certain level of discomfort, like:
- Itchiness,
- Cramps,
- Burning sensation,
- Foot pain.
How to Prevent Spider Veins?
If you want to avoid getting spider veins, there are a few things you can do to prevent them. While these methods aren’t 100% effective, and they can’t guarantee that you will not get spider veins, they can reduce the chances of that happening.
Regular Exercise
One of the best ways to minimize your chances of getting spider veins is getting enough exercise. Regular exercise improves your circulation and vein health.
Avoiding Prolonged Sitting or Standing
Sitting or standing in place for longer periods of time is bad for circulation, so try to avoid it. If you do have to stand, try tiptoeing and moving your feet in intervals. When sitting, make sure your legs are elevated.
Consult With Your Doctor in Miami About the Spider Veins on Your Feet
If you want to get rid of the spider veins on your feet, there are several effective solutions and medical procedures you can try. If you want spider veins to be gone quickly and efficiently, contact us and schedule an appointment with our surgeon at the Luxe Foot Surgery.
