Spider Veins
According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, around 40% of women have unsightly veins, including spider veins. It is unknown what exactly causes spider veins, although aging, hormonal changes, heredity, trauma, pregnancy, and sun damage are recognized as primary contributing factors. The number of women with this condition is slightly higher than of men.
Spider veins smaller than varicose veins, and are twisty and elongated. Although these are often cosmetic issues, spider veins can also be indications of a more serious health problem.
What are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are red, blue, or purple vessels that appear as thin web-like lines on the surface of the skin, particularly on the face and legs. Sometimes they surround abnormally dilated blood vessels called “varicose veins”.
Spider Veins vs Varicose Veins
It is important to understand the difference between spider veins and varicose veins in order to identify the best treatment for you.
Spider veins are varicose veins are two different forms of venous insufficiency.
Spider veins are smaller and thinner visible vessels that may be slightly raised or flat. Often, they appear red, blue, or purple. Most of the time they are painless, although there are reports of some discomfort.
Spider Veins
Varicose Veins
Signs and Symptoms of Spider Veins
Spider veins do not usually cause pain. But if there’s pain, it may come with any or a combination of the following:
Causes of Spider Veins
Genetics
A family history of varicose veins increases your chances of having spider veins. In fact, 90% of people with this condition have relatives with venous insufficiency.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the woman’s blood pressure increases in order to sustain the needs of the developing child. The increased blood flow plus the extra weight of the developing child places more pressure on the veins. Pregnancy-induced spider veins usually disappear after some time, but there are also chances of them becoming permanent. Many women often suffer from broken capillaries due to the hormonal changes causing weakened blood vessels and excess blood during a pregnancy.
Being Female
According to studies, women are more vulnerable to having spider veins than men.
Aging
Over time, the valves within the veins lose durability. Gravity makes it more difficult for blood to travel from the legs to the heart, putting excess pressure on the veins. Over time, muscles also begin to weaken giving less support to surrounding veins.
Obesity
Hormonal Treatments
Standing or Sitting for a Long Time
History of Vein Damage or Blood Clot
Blood clot and vein damage can harm the valves and affect overall blood circulation.
Excess Pressure in the Facial Muscles
Sun Damage
Diagnosis of Spider Veins
Spider veins diagnosis is largely based on the visual inspection. Your doctor may examine your legs and ask if you feel pain around it. An ultrasound may be requested so the doctor can check your body for clots.
It is important to disclose your personal information to the doctor so that you can be prescribed with the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment of Spider Veins
Although spider veins are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort, and most often people want to remove them for cosmetic purposes.
The condition of the spider veins will have to be assessed to determine the best treatment for you. Several options are available:
