What Happens
Leg vein problems develop when vein valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards malfunction or when a vein wall becomes stressed and weakens. As blood flows in the opposite direction (reflux) it pools, forcing the vein wall outward, leading to the failure of other valves in a "cascade effect" and, eventually, to varicose veins.

In addition to being unsightly and even embarrassing, varicose veins and spider veins can cause varying degrees of discomfort, such as:

- swelling
- throbbing
- heaviness
- achiness
- leg cramps

Varicose veins are a progressive disease which, in advanced cases, can lead to chronic swelling, bleeding, ulceration, and pigmentation. This advanced state is called Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Due to the natural progression of the disease, it is important to seek early medical treatment in order to reduce symptoms and improve the chances for excellent cosmetic results.

Spider veins occur in combination with varicose veins as a result of increased vein pressure or on their own due to increased communication between the venous and arterial system through little shunts (short cuts).

In women, the presence of varicose veins on the legs can often signify a more extensive health problem - pelvic congestion syndrome. Pelvic congestion syndrome is caused by poorly functioning veins in the ovaries and pelvic region, which often manifest as varicosities in the abdomen, buttocks, vulva, and legs. Women that suffer from a general achiness in the pelvic area, especially when standing, lifting, or after sex, and bleed heavily during menstruation may be victims of this condition. With the advanced diagnostic tools of today, it is easier for doctors to identify pelvic congestion syndrome than ever before. Similarly, although this condition was once treated almost exclusively with surgery, it is now treated with easy, quick, and non-surgical methods like sclerotherapy.

Causes
No one really knows what causes varicose veins and spider veins, but we do know that a combination of factors increase the likelihood of leg vein problems.

We also know that the #1 contributing factor in the development of varicose veins and spider veins is heredity, which means that you were born with a genetic predisposition to develop leg vein problems. In other words, if you have a parent with varicose veins then there is a good chance that you will develop them, too.

There are also numerous lifestyle variables that can accelerate and aggravate your varicose or spider veins. They include:

- pregnancy
- birth control pills
- hormone replacement therapies
- obesity
- weight fluctuation
- constipation
- prolonged sitting or standing
- poor postural habits
- aging
- leg injury