Spider veins are tiny, superficial, red or purplish veins that
usually appear on the legs, or sometimes the face. They
generally assume one of three patterns: spider-shaped, with many
veins radiating from a central spot; linear, with small,
unconnected lines; or arborizing (AR-bohr-eye-zing), in which a
branch-like pattern is seen. Spider veins become visible due to
excess blood pressure that dilates the vessels. However, doctors
aren't sure exactly why this happens. One major theory is that
they arise from deeper varicose veins which elevate pressure in
tiny vessels near the surface. Another explanation is that
spider veins have accidentally connected themselves to much
higher pressure arteries, causing the veins to swell under the
unusual tension. Whatever their cause, certain factors can
encourage spider veins to develop, including pregnancy, jobs
that require constant standing, birth control pills or hormonal
changes, and being overweight. A tendency toward spider veins
may also be inherited. There is lit