What causes spider veins?

/in /by

No one wants spider veins, but it is hard to prevent them when little is known about what causes them.

These small, dilated blood vessels – which sit just under the surface of the skin – can show up on anyone, with little warning and sometimes with very little reasoning.

However, we do know that some genetic and lifestyle factors can at least contribute to the development of spider veins.

Here’s a look at some potential causes:

Factors that can contribute to spider veins forming

There are a range of factors that may be linked to the development of spider veins, including some which specifically relate to women.

Statistically, women are around 50 per cent more likely than men to experience spider veins.

However, plenty of men – particularly those over the age of 50 – also develop spider veins.

While most commonly found the legs, spider veins can also form on a person’s face, neck, arms or belly.

Some causes of spider veins may include:

  • Genetics
    If you have a family history of spider veins, you are more likely to develop them yourself at some point during your lifetime.
  • Hormonal Changes (Including Pregnancy)
    Fluctuations in hormones have been linked to the development of spider veins, including during pregnancy, puberty or menopause. Estrogen and progesterone make veins dilate and pull at the valves to let blood flow in the wrong direction. During pregnancy, a women’s body also contains an increased quantity of blood, which can magnify the problem. The use of hormonal birth control could also contribute to the development of spider veins.
  • Age
    While spider veins can affect people in their 20s, they are more common in older populations. Veins become less elastic as you age, making them more prone to dilation.
  • Exposure to the Sun
    Too much time in the sun can damage the skin and the blood vessels just underneath it. Excessive sun exposure can cause the skin cells to produce less collagen, resulting in the skin becoming thinner and blood vessels that were once hidden away becoming more visible.
  • Lifestyle Factors
    Those who regularly stand or sit for prolonged periods of time can be more prone to developing spider veins, as well as smokers and anyone who is overweight or obese. Smoking constricts your veins and makes it more difficult for blood to flow as it should, leading to blood pooling. Being overweight puts more pressure on valves and vein walls.

Get treatment for spider veins

If you have developed spider veins – for whatever reason – and want them gone, we can help.

At Laser Vein Co, we are a leading provider of non-invasive spider vein treatments in Melbourne and around Victoria.

Our practice is headed by Dr Peter Y. Milne – Vascular Surgeon, who has over 30 years of experience in the field.

Seek a referral from your doctor and then get in touch with us to book an appointment and determine the best course of treatment for your spider veins.