Veins
Problems with unsightly veins are very common with nearly two thirds of people over the age of 60 suffering from some kind of venous problem especially varicose veins and spider veins. Indeed the incidence of varicose veins and other unsightly veins increases significantly after the age of 40 and women are much more likely to develop them than men.
Varicose veins
Varicose veins occur when veins do not properly return blood from the lower leg to the heart. All veins have valves that open to allow the flow of blood to the heart and close to prevent back flow (know as "reflux") of blood to the foot. When valves fail to function properly, blood leaks through and flows down the leg in the wrong direction. The blood overfills and distends the superficial veins under the skin, resulting in the bulging seen in varicose veins.
The walls and valves of veins are thin and elastic, and can stretch due to a variety of conditions including pregnancy, heredity and age. When varicose veins become severe, it is referred to as chronic venous insufficiency. Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency includes aching pain, easy leg fatigue and leg heaviness, all of which worsen as the day progresses. Left untreated, chronic venous insufficiency can cause ulcerations, which can be very difficult to treat.
Spider veins
Spider veins although similar to varicose veins are much closer to the surface of the skin and are usually red or purple. These veins are most commonly found on the face and legs and appear like a spider's web with short jagged lines.
Causes of unsightly veins
The cause of varicose veins is unknown although heredity is the most common factor. Hormonal changes play a large part and this probably explains why more women suffer from varicose veins than men because of the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and menopause. Other contributory factors include obesity and prolonged standing. Spider veins on the face are often the result of excessive sun exposure.