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Those
annoying, unattractive spider veins, which
appear as small red, blue or purple lines, are
actually enlarged capillaries. Usually less than
2 millimeters in diameter, they are sometimes
raised from the surface of your skin. The most
common problems for patients with spider veins
are the presence of purplish or reddish lines or
web-like discolorations. Pain in the legs,
throbbing, itching, cramping, and restlessness
of the leg may occur—but are not common.
Over 80 million people have problems with
varicose veins and spider veins. These
conditions are often hereditary. Hormonal
factors such as puberty, pregnancy and
menopause, and the use of birth control pills
containing estrogen or progesterone also affect
veins. Age, leg injury, obesity, lack of
exercise, weight fluctuation, constriction, and
prolonged sitting and standing can be additional
contributing factors. |
