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What Could Be Causing Visible Capillaries on my Body?

I didn't think it was possible but I am starting to see capillaries rise to the surface of my skin all over my body.

Although the majority are on my legs, they are also visible on my arms, back, chest, etc. Since I am only 34 this seems odd. My family has a history of heart disease and blood clots.

Before I look into cosmetic treatments, I would like to know if this seems to indicate a deeper health issue. Thank you!

Doctor Answers 2

Venous insufficiency and leg veins

March 14th, 2015
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For the leg veins, it is possible that you have venous insufficiency which results from aging, weight gain, occupations where we sit r stand a lot, where we lift objects at work (> 1000 kg a day), hormonal influences in women, pregnancy, and family history. 

Thinning of the skin in other parts of the body results in the appearance of spider veins and reticular veins. 

Web reference: http://www.VeinsVeinsVeins.com

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS


Buffalo Phlebologist
4.8 out of 5 stars 41 reviews

Spider veins

January 13th, 2010
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If this is truely visible cappilaries as in spider veins on the legs and face, it is due to thin skin, hormonal, family history.

However if it is all over the body, I would show them to your Family Physician and make sure they are microvaricosities. In that case there is nothing wrong with you. May be thin skin.

See your family Physician.

Samir Shureih, MD

Samir Shureih, MD
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon
4.2 out of 5 stars 7 reviews

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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.