If you notice a cluster of red, blue, or purple veins that are close to the skin’s surface on your ankles, you might have spider veins. These small, web-like veins can be a cosmetic concern for many people.
Are you curious to learn why they appear? Check out our blog post to learn about 5 common causes of spider veins on your ankles.
What are Spider Veins?
Small, colorful veins can sometimes appear on the ankles and feet. These are called spider veins or telangiectasias. They look like tiny, web-like patterns, often blue, red, or purple.
Spider veins happen when the valves inside the veins don’t work properly. This causes blood to gather in the veins, making them visible on the skin’s surface. While usually harmless, spider veins can sometimes cause discomfort or aching.
Are Spider Veins on Ankles More Common in Men or Women?
Spider veins are more common in women than men, with around 55% of women likely to experience them compared to 45% of men.
Fortunately, treatments like sclerotherapy or laser therapy can help remove spider veins from the ankle area.
What Causes Spider Veins on Ankles?
Below, we have mentioned the 5 very common causes of spider veins on ankles:
- Prolonged Sitting or Standing
One major reason for spider veins on the ankles is spending too much time sitting or standing. When you stay in one position for a long time, pressure builds up in the veins in your legs. This pressure can make blood gather, which weakens the vein valves and leads to spider veins.Jobs that involve a lot of standing, like nursing or teaching, can make this problem worse.
- Obesity
Being obese is another big reason for spider veins around ankles. Extra weight puts more pressure on your body’s blood system, especially the veins in your legs. This pressure can damage the vein valves, causing blood to gather and form spider veins. - Physical Inactivity
Not being active can also lead to spider veins.If you don’t exercise regularly, your veins can become weaker, and your blood circulation can slow down. Doing light activities like walking, biking, or swimming can help your blood flow better and lower your risk of getting spider veins.
Regular movement keeps your blood flowing and stops it from gathering in your legs.
- Genetics
Your genes can also make you more likely to get spider veins. Studies show that up to 90% of people with spider veins have family members with similar problems.If your close relatives have had vein problems, you’re more likely to get spider veins, too. While you can’t change your genes, you can make healthy lifestyle choices to lower your risk.
- Hormonal Changes
Hormones can also play a role in getting spider veins, especially for women.During pregnancy or menopause, hormone changes can make veins weaker. When you’re pregnant, your blood volume increases, and you gain weight, which puts more pressure on your leg veins. This can damage the veins and make blood pool. Hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy can also affect vein health.
Ultimately
If you’ve spotted spider veins on your ankle, consult with our specialists at Memorial Cardiology Associates. They can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the most effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, they can identify any underlying health issues that may be contributing to the development of spider veins.
To book an appointment at one of our convenient locations, please call:
- Memorial City and Bellville: (713) 464-6006.
- Katy West: (281) 398-4944.
- Greater Heights: (713) 861-2424.