What is it?
Spider veins can occur on any area of the body, but are most common on the legs and face. The exact cause of spider veins is not known, but it has been shown that there is a genetic component to spider veins. While spider veins can occur in both men and women, they are more common in females. It seems as if the hormones estrogen and progesterone play a role in the development of spider veins. Changes in body chemistry such as puberty, birth control pills, menopause and hormone therapy can bring them on. Constrictive clothing, such as tight hosiery and girdles can also cause spider vein development. The spider veins that appear on the face can also be the result of too much sun exposure.
Contributing Factors
- Heredity
- Occupations that involve prolonged standing
- Obesity
- Hormonal influences during pregnancy
- Use of oral contraceptives
- Post-menopausal hormone replacement
- Prolonged sitting with legs crossed
- History of blood clots
- Other minor factors are:
- Topical steroids
- Trauma or injury to the skin
- Exposure to ultra violet rays
Treatment Options
