What is a Capillary?

A capillary is a threadlike, thin-walled blood vessel that carries blood to tissues. If the capillary wall is ruptured, blood seeps into the skin tissue, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Causes of Broken Capillaries

Causes of broken capillaries include age, heredity, hormonal changes, dehydrated skin, sun damage, pregnancy, obesity, pressure, prolonged standing, the effects of certain drugs, and bumps and bruises, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Age and Capillary Fragility

As you age, your capillary walls become more fragile, particularly in the legs and arms, according to the Mayo Clinic. This can mean that you need to better protect your veins and capillaries against injury and unnecessary pressure as you get older.

Broken Capillaries and Physical Pressure

Broken capillaries on arms and legs can also indicate too much pressure from prolonged sitting, standing, unsupported lifting, or constriction such as from tight hose, according to Melbourne Dermatology Skin Care.

Broken Capillaries and Drugs

As age, weight, exposure to sun, or reactions to certain drugs also can make capillary walls more fragile. These factors, particularly drug reactions, should be discussed with your doctor, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Source:

aad.org: American Academy of Dermatology: Spider Veins and Broken Capillaries

MayoClinic.com: Bruising and Broken Capillaries

treatment-skincare.com: Melbourne Dermatology on Broken Capillaries