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SPIDER VEINS

Spider veins result from damaged veins or burst blood vessels. They are typically painless and do not cause any health problems.

Spider veins can be blue, purple, or red. They may appear in the form of thin lines, webs, or branches.

A few factors that could increase the risk of developing spider veins include:

Genetics: Family history;

Pregnancy: An increase in blood flow and the additional weight of the fetus on leg veins may cause spider veins;

Sex: 41% of women over the age of 50 are prone to spider veins;

Age: The valves in veins tend to get weaker with age. The calf muscles which help support the veins in the legs and enable them to pump the blood upwards may lose some of their strength as the person ages;

Being overweight: Additional body weight can place extra pressure on leg veins;

Hormones: Birth control and hormonal treatments for menopause can increase the risk of spider veins as oestrogen can weaken vein valves;

Sitting or standing for extended periods: Veins in the legs have to work harder to pump blood up towards the heart;

Excessive pressure in the face: This could be due to coughing, sneezing, or vomiting;

Sun damage: UV light from the sun can damage the skin and cause broken blood vessels;

Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can cause flushing in the face and broken blood vessels;

Insufficient exercise: Insufficient exercise can cause blood to pool in the legs;

Wearing too tight clothing: Tight clothing can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of spider veins;

Being exposed to excessive heat: Hot baths and saunas increase the risk of dilating veins in the legs;

Vitamin C: Insufficient vitamin C has an important role to play in healthy veins and can reduce the risk of developing spider veins.