What are varicose veins?

Veins are the vessels that return blood to the heart. Varicose is derived from the Latin term meaning dilated.

Varicose veins are abnormally dilated rope-like veins that bulge from the skin. They most often occur on the legs but can also be found on the hands, arms, breast, and genital regions. They occur when vein valves weaken resulting in pooling of blood in veins near the surface of the skin.

What are spider veins?

Spider veins, medically known as telangiectasias, are dilated capillaries (the tiniest of all veins) that are visible just below the skin’s surface. They are blue, red, or purple and often resemble a tangled spider’s web; hence, the name. Although these super-fine veins are connected with the larger venous system, they are not an essential part of it. Spider veins are primarily a cosmetic concern but can be associated with symptoms such as burning, aching, itching, or restless legs syndrome.

What causes varicose veins and spider veins?

Varicose veins develop in the legs when vein valves become weak or malfunction, allowing blood to flow in the wrong direction (reflux). When this happens, pressure in the veins increases (venous hypertension), and blood begins to pool in the abnormal veins causing them to dilate and protrude from the skin. These abnormal veins are not properly returning blood from the lower legs to the heart.

The primary factor contributing to the development of varicose veins is hereditary predisposition to weakness of the vein walls and valves. Other factors contributing to the development of varicose and spider veins include hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy), occupations requiring prolonged sitting or standing, obesity, aging, lack of exercise, and physical trauma to the leg. Women are at least twice as likely to develop abnormal veins as men.

Pregnancy causes increases in hormone levels and blood volume which in turn cause veins to enlarge. In addition, the enlarged uterus causes increased pressure on the veins. Varicose veins due to pregnancy often improve within 3-4 months after deliver. However, with successive pregnancies, abnormal veins are more likely to remain.