Cause of Spider Veins in Legs

Spider veins, as unsightly and embarrassing as they may be, generally pose no real health risk for those who have them. They are actually broken capillaries found just beneath the skin; their name is derived from the web-like shape they form, and they are frequently red, purple or blue in color. There are a variety of causes for spider veins, and they are more common than some might figure them to be.

Genetics

• If one or more people in your family, especially on your maternal side, has spider veins, your risk for developing them is greater than for those whose family members do not have them.

Obesity

• Those who carry excess weight are more prone to developing spider veins; this is because the extra weight weakens the valves of the veins, making them more susceptible to breaking.

Birth Control Pills

• There are certain birth control pills, especially those with a combination of progesterone and estrogen, that can cause spider veins. This is due to the excess amount of estrogen these pills release into the body.

Pregnancy

• As the uterus grows, it applies more pressure on the veins of the legs, causing them to weaken and break. The increased blood flow during pregnancy will cause the veins to expand and weaken as well.

Hormonal Changes

• Different times during a person's life, such as puberty and menopause, cause an increase in the production of estrogen. This can result in a weakening of the vein walls.

Age

• As you become older, the valves in the vein walls begin to fail, resulting in the veins stretching and breaking. Eventually, spider veins appear.