Spider Veins 101 Part 2

Do spider evens increase with age?

Yes, most people begin to see spider veins in the 4th and 5th decades of life. Spider veins also run in families and so if anyone in the family has spider veins, you are also prone to spider veins.

How does the oral contraceptive pill cause spider veins?

It is believe that the female sex hormone, estrogen, can cause weakening or damage to valves in the veins. The valves usually prevent back flow of blood. When these valves are damaged, blood starts to pool in the veins and hence the veins appear dark.

Spider veins also tend to be more common in pregnancy. The combination of weight gain and excess estrogen are the probable cause.

Can spider veins disappear on their own?

Generally, spider veins do lighten up a bit, but never disappear completely. In most cases, spider veins become more obvious with time. Spider veins which develop on the face tend to darken with sun exposure. Other factors that worsen spider veins is lack of exercise, weight gain and a couch potato life style.

Do spider veins occur in men?

Sure, men of all races, cultures, and ethnic origin develop spider veins. Spider veins in men are much less common than in females. The majority of men who do develop spider veins are obese or have had extensive sun exposure on their face. However, most men do not care about aesthetics and the majority do not even know they have spider veins

How does one prevent spider veins?

For those who have spider veins on the face- keep away from the sun. Wear a sunscreen, wear a hat and sun glasses. For those who have spider veins on the legs, the best treatment is to wear compression stocking. These stockings come in all styles, colors designs, and fashion. Most of the current day stockings are elegant to wear and sexy. To get the most benefit from these stocking, one has to wear the stockings every day and remove them at night. The pressure stockings come in various gradients but for spider veins a gradient of 5-10 mmHg will suffice. If you also have varicose veins, then it is better to get stockings with a higher gradient. Stockings are not a cure for spider veins but can help prevent them from getting worse.

Individuals who stand around a lot should wear stockings or move around. Exercise is very effective at squeezing muscles and hence this prevent blood from pooling in the veins. When you go to bed, place your legs over a couple of pillows. Anytime you rest, keep your legs elevated.