Does vein disease affect women and men equally?
Women account for approximately 85-90% of varicose vein disease, mainly because of the unique additional risk factors for females, including hormone levels during pregnancy. Women are particularly afflicted with reticular veins. These light blue veins usually appear in a lattice framework, giving a marbled appearance to the skin. They are the harmless looking veins, but they are usually the most symptomatic of all. Reticular veins are the cause of the high rate of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) in women. When these veins are effectively treated, the discomfort and automatic movements diminish.