What Causes Spider Veins?

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Individuals who take hormonal birth control, are a menopausal woman getting hormone replacement therapy, or are a transgender woman who takes estrogen, might have a higher likelihood of developing spider veins, as estrogen can weaken the valves in the veins. Estrogen hormone therapy is available in a variety of different formats. The right kind of hormone replacement therapy varies from patient to patient based on personal preferences, symptoms, health, and the goal of treatment. Individuals with uteruses tend to have progestin and estrogen given in combination, while those without uteruses tend to have just estrogen. Estrogen replacement therapy is most commonly offered through oral medication, which helps reduce menopause symptoms, and some studies indicate they can lower an individual's osteoporosis risk. However, these patients will have an increased chance of spider veins and may also have an increased risk of developing blood clots or having a stroke. When combined with progestin, they might also have a higher risk of heart attacks and breast cancer.

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Tumors Causing Abdominal Pressure

Any unusual and prolonged pressure against the abdomen can lead to spider veins, including tumors. The tumor might be benign, which means it isn't cancerous, but if it's causing severe enough pressure to lead to spider veins, patients might need to get it surgically removed anyway. The doctor will do imaging tests to determine where any tumors are. They may also do diagnostic tests to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant. From there, they will help devise a treatment plan. It is much rarer for spider veins to be caused by tumors than to be caused by other conditions or environmental factors. Patients should see a doctor if their spider veins feel warm and tender when touched, or if they're red. They should also see a doctor if they develop open sores in the skin, or if home remedies for the problem aren't helping.

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