Spider veins appear as a network of blue, purple, or red lines beneath the surface of the skin, usually on the thighs and the backs of the calves. They are quite common-nearly half of all women suffer from varicose and spider veins.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are caused by faulty valves. Veins in the legs work harder than any others in the body because of the tremendous pressure required to return the blood upward to the heart. Under various conditions, valves that prevent the blood from flowing backward can malfunction; the blood will pool, causing the veins to extend and become visible within the skin.
What Causes Spider Veins?
While men certainly suffer from them, the percentage of women with spider veins is higher, with an almost four to one ratio. Causes are linked to hormonal changes, both natural and artificial-menopause, pregnancy, hormone replacement, and the use of birth control can all contribute to the appearance of spider veins.
Heredity is another factor, as is age: fifty percent of people over 50 are affected by vein problems. A lifelong strain on the valves can cause them to begin to fail.
Obesity increases the veins’ workload, as does continual standing or sitting. Sedentary lifestyles almost guarantee vein problems, as do occupations that require long periods of standing in one place.
Are There Health Concerns?
Other than the obvious cosmetic aspect, there are rarely serious health concerns, but spider veins can cause cramps, swelling, inflammation, restless legs, and general achiness. They may also be an indication of problems deeper within the legs, so it is a good idea to get an examination with any noticeable pain.
How Are Spider Veins Treated?
“Gold standard” treatment of spider and varicose veins is called “Sclerotherapy” and involves tiny injections into the troublesome veins, causing them to disappear completely. This is done in outpatient settings, and normal lifestyle functions can generally be resumed the same day.
Other treatments include laser surgery, staining of the skin, inpatient removal surgery, and compression stockings. Many options are available, and some spider vein treatments are budget-friendly.