What causes spider and varicose veins?
Varicose veins result from poor circulation in the legs caused by diseased or damaged valves that control proper blood flow. When valves in the veins no longer close tightly, blood can leak backwards, causing the vein to enlarge with blood and the vessel walls to weaken. Factors that contribute to your risk of developing the disease include a family history, an occupation that requires standing for long periods of time, obesity and high impact aerobics. Spider and varicose veins can also occur because of hormone fluctuations, including puberty, pregnancy, menopause, oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Leg veins can appear after an injury to the leg or a broken bone. The elderly are at higher risk since veins tend to loose their elasticity with age. Preventing varicose veins While you may not be able to prevent varicose veins if you have a family history of this vein disease, you can take steps to improve your health and well being before treatment becomes necessary.
