What Causes spider veins?

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are a real nuisance. These tiny small veins appear just below the surface of skin and are very common. They are called spider because the vein has a very dark center with linear radiating lines circumferentially. Spider veins are also known as “star” veins or telengiectasias. One can have just one spider vein or many such skin lesions. It is estimated that close to 60% of the population develops spider veins at some point in their lives.

Where do spider veins generally occur?

In most cases, spider veins appear on the face (especially around the nose and cheeks). On the leg, spider veins are most common around the back of thighs.

Why do docs talk a lot about spider veins?

Am sorry to say, but MDs who hype about spider veins are clueless and only want your money. Spider veins are only a cosmetic nuisance and cause no harm. They are not life threatening.

Why do spider veins occur?

The exact cause is not known but there are several risk factors:

Age: Spider veins are extremely rare in children and young adults. As we age, spider veins do start to appear. In most cases, spider veins first appear in the 3rd/4th decade of life. As humans get older, almost everyone develops spider veins. Elderly individuals who have delicate and fragile skin easily develop spider veins from minimal trauma.

Genetics: Even though it is known that spider veins do run in families, the exact gene and type of linkage inheritance is unknown. The genetic linkage is stronger for females than males. There is no known medical disorder that has been associated with an increased frequency of spider veins