Spider veins are a common condition affecting millions of Americans. More often than not, the condition is genetic in origin and is more likely to inflict women than men.
Appearing as thin, red, blue, or purple lines in veins across the skin, spider veins are generally more of a cosmetic condition. While spider veins are not usually a serious medical problem, they can and often do involve some level of pain or discomfort.
Similar to varicose veins, spider veins develop due to weakened valves in veins. The end results cause backward flowing blood and visible bulges.