WHAT ARE SPIDER VEINS

Spider veins are the small yet unsightly clusters of pink and purple thread like veins that lie near the surface of the skin. They are commonly found in the leg but can also appear in the face and other parts of the body. It is estimated that more than half of the female population has this cosmetic problem.

Spider veins are similar to varicose veins in that they are both abnormally enlarged veins. They differ in their size, by definition Spider veins are <1mm in diameter, Reticular Veins are between 1-3mm and varicose veins are >3mm in diameter

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WHAT CAUSES SPIDER VEINS?

A number of factors can make one prone to spider veins. These include:

• Heriditary factors. Some people are born with a weaker set of veins and this can be inherited in the family. These weak veins will enlarge to form spider veins when subjected to pressure. That is the reason why varicose veins and spider veins tend to run in the family.
• Pregnancy. This is by far the most potent cause of spider veins formation. During pregnancy, surging hormones, larger blood volume and pressure from an enlarging uterus all contribute to enlargement of leg veins. After pregnancy, almost 80 percent of these veins will disappear within 3 months. Therefore it is advisable to wait a few months before seeking treatment.
• Prolonged standing and sitting exert pressure on the leg veins as gravitational forces encourage blood to stay in the leg.
• Tight clothing can cause constriction around the waist and leg and impede blood circulation. High heel shoes restrict calf muscle function and circulation.
• Sun exposure is well known to cause spider veins on the face especially around the nose.  However sudden temperature changes and high humidity has not been proven to be a causative factor.

DO SPIDER VEINS CAUSE PAIN?

Spider veins usually do not cause any pain or discomfort. They are not harmful to health. However in some people, the presence of Spider Veins can be an indication of early varicose vein disorder. In these cases, a person can experience aches and cramps in the calf and occasionally pain around the veins.

Treatment

Varicose Veins :: Spider Veins