Spider veins get their name from the web of red or blue veins that spread across your legs. They’re dilated superficial blood vessels like varicose veins, but smaller and closer to the skin. While they don’t usually cause medical problems, they can be eliminated for medical or cosmetic reasons with a procedure called Sclerotherapy.
Spider veins are caused by increased pressure in the veins. Some people develop spider because of hereditary, or older age. People who stand or sit for long periods of time may be more prone as well.
Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment for spider veins. It involves injecting a solution into the vein that forces it to collapse, which stops blood flow. After the veins collapses, the body absorbs them and fades after a few weeks. Most people who receive this treatment see a 50 to 90 percent improvement.
Spider veins are mainly a cosmetic issue and can be left alone if they don’t bother you. However, some spider veins are a result of a larger issue like varicose veins. The varicose vein should be fixed first before the spider vein can be fixed.