Q3. Are there people who are more prone to getting thread veins?

A3. Yes. Women are more prone to developing thread veins (and varicose veins) which occurs for several reasons. This is mainly due to the female hormone oestrogen which fluctuates at certain times in a woman's life.

These include puberty, pregnancy and the menopause. Synthetic versions of this such as those prescribed as part of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) or as an oral contraceptive also increase the risk of thread veins.

Oestrogen relaxes the walls of the veins which in turn affects their ability to circulate blood around the body. These veins are very fragile and the slightest pressure on them will cause them to become enlarged and spread out across the skin.

People with a family history of vascular disorders such as varicose veins and/or thread veins are also at risk. This also applies to people who have jobs which require them to spend a large amount of time on their feet. This includes retail assistants, teachers and hairdressers.

For more information visit our causes of thread veins section.

FAQS Index:

Thread veins FAQs

1. What are thread veins?
2. What causes thread veins?
3. Are there people who are more prone to getting thread veins?
4. Are there particular jobs which carry a high risk of thread veins?
5. Is it possible to inherit thread veins?
6. Are thread veins dangerous?
7. How do you treat thread veins?

8. How does laser treatment work?
9. What is microsclerotherapy?
10. Can I use a natural remedy to treat my thread veins?
11. Can you cure thread veins?
12. Can you prevent thread veins?
13. Is it possible to develop thread veins and varicose veins?

Guide to Thread Veins

• Thread Veins
• Leg veins
• Thread veins
• Causes of thread veins
• Treatment for thread veins
• Non-surgical treatment for thread veins
• Laser treatment

• Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment
• Microsclerotherapy
• Electrolysis
• Alternative treatments
• Preventing thread veins
• Thread veins FAQs
• Glossary