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Varicose and spider veins

Also called: Varicose veins, spider veins

Swollen, twisted veins (varicose) or small red or purple web-like veins (spider), most often on the legs. They're common and usually harmless, but can ache.

TypeVein problem
Common inWomen, older adults, pregnancy
TreatmentCompression, procedures

Overview

Valves inside leg veins weaken, letting blood pool and veins swell.

Spider veins are smaller and mostly a cosmetic concern.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Bulging, twisted, or spider veins in the legs

Less common

  • Aching or heavy legs
  • Swelling
  • Itching

Look up a symptom: Itching

When to get medical care

Call 911Heavy bleeding from a vein, or chest pain or trouble breathing.
Get care todayA vein that's red, hot, hard, and painful, or one swollen, painful leg.
See a doctor soonSkin color changes or sores near the ankle.

Causes

Weak vein valves from age, genes, pregnancy, standing a lot, and extra weight.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
  • It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Women
  • Pregnancy
  • Family history
  • Standing jobs

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional looks at your legs.

Questions you may be asked

  • Aching, swelling, or skin changes

The exam

A leg exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound: Checks blood flow and clots.

Treatment

Simple steps ease symptoms.

Self-care

  • Raise your legs when resting
  • Walk and avoid standing still for long
  • Wear compression stockings

Procedures like sclerotherapy, laser, or vein ablation close problem veins.

Prevention

To help:

  • Move often
  • Keep a healthy weight

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a vascular specialist (blood vessel doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually harmless; treatment helps symptoms and looks.

Myths and facts

Myth: Crossing your legs causes varicose veins.

Fact: Genes, age, pregnancy, and standing a lot are the main causes.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Would compression or a procedure help?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Varicose and spider veins

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.