Is standing or sitting all day causing unsightly veins? What about stress, aging, genetics or other regular activities? You don’t have to hide your legs forever. Learn the causes and treatments for visible veins.
What Causes Visible Veins?
Visible veins are caused by abnormal blood flow and that creates pressure. This pressure weakens the vein and makes it visible. Visible veins are twice as common in women as men, and they’re most common in older women.
There are two main types of visible veins: varicose veins, which appear ropey, enlarged, and painful, and spider veins, typically painless veins that are also known as thread veins.
Many factors contribute to visible veins, including:
- Conditions such as blood clots or tumors in the abdomen
- Family history
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes, including pregnancy or menopause
- Injury
- Older age
- Sitting or standing for long periods of time
- Sun exposure from ultraviolet rays
Spider and varicose veins can impact more than your appearance. Varicose veins are often painful or uncomfortable. The good news? Charlotte Radiology Vein Centers have treated visible veins since 2001 using minimally invasive procedures, including sclerotherapy and endovenous laser therapy (EVLT). These procedures are often painless, with a short duration and recovery time.
