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Bulging, twisted, or spider veins in the legs

Also called: Varicose veins, spider veins, venous insufficiency

Bulging, twisted veins (varicose veins) and small spider veins in the legs are very common, especially with age, pregnancy, and standing a lot. They're usually harmless but can ache, swell, or itch. A swollen, red, painful leg or a vein that bleeds needs prompt care.

Common causesWeak vein valves, age, pregnancy, standing, family history
Usually serious?Usually not
Get checked ifPain, swelling, skin changes, or bleeding
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Veins have valves that keep blood flowing toward the heart. When valves weaken, blood pools and veins stretch and bulge. Legs may feel heavy, achy, or tired, especially at the end of the day.

Over time, venous insufficiency can cause ankle swelling, darkened or hardened skin, and sores near the ankle. Spider veins are small, thin red or blue lines and usually cause no symptoms.

When to get medical care

Call 911A varicose vein that's bleeding heavily: raise the leg and press firmly. Leg swelling with sudden shortness of breath or chest pain.
Get care todayOne leg swollen, warm, red, and painful (possible blood clot). A hard, tender, red vein.
See a doctor soonAching, swelling, or heaviness that affects daily life. Skin darkening, rash, or a sore near the ankle.

Causes

Causes include weak vein valves, aging, family history, pregnancy, standing or sitting a long time, extra weight, and past blood clots.

OwieClear has pages on 2 conditions that can cause bulging, twisted, or spider veins in the legs. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

What you can do at home

  • Raise your legs above your heart several times a day.
  • Wear compression stockings.
  • Walk and stay active.
  • Avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
  • Lose weight if needed.

Medicines

Treatments include compression, sclerotherapy (injections), laser or heat closure of the vein, and vein removal.

At the doctor

The provider will check your veins.

Questions you may be asked

  • Symptoms and when they're worse
  • Swelling or skin changes
  • Pregnancy and family history
  • Past blood clots

The exam

An exam of the legs while standing.

Tests

  • Duplex ultrasound of the veins

Prevention

You can ease symptoms.

  • Stay active
  • Raise your legs
  • Wear compression stockings
  • Keep a healthy weight

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.