These refer to broken capillaries which are small blood vessels near the surface of the skin, which become abnormally dilated. They are very small, usually 0.5 mm to 3 mm and are usually considered harmless, as they cause no pain or discomfort as well as pose no risk to one’s health unlike varicose veins, which may indicate something more serious. The biggest problem with spider veins is their unsightly appearance on the face as well as legs.
Causes of Spider Veins
Spider Veins
Both spider veins as well as varicose veins are typically attributed to venous insufficiency. This is a condition where the vein valves are damaged which increases pressure as well as impairing blood drainage from the leg veins leading to the development of spider and/or varicose veins.
Conversely, facial spider veins are smaller and are generally attributed to damage which results from over exposure to the sun or due to inflammation from a skin condition such as rosacea (ro-ZER-sha). This combination of damage to vein vessel walls as well as extended and excessive dilation can often lead to spider veins on the face.
The various causes or factors leading to spider veins include:
- Age as well as family history, i.e. heredity, genetics.
- Changes in hormone levels due to pregnancy or the onset of menopause. Usually, oral hormonal contraceptives can cause or even exacerbate spider veins, particularly those which are on the legs.
- Any factor leading to increased blood volume and pressure in the legs such as pregnancy, obesity, injury, or heavy lifting, besides extended periods of standing.
- Prolonged exposure to the sun as well as inflammatory skin diseases, which can increase the likelihood of facial spider veins.