Varicose veins affect one in five adults and about 16 percent of folks age 60 or older, adding up to 40 million people in the US alone. Varicose veins have a thick, rope-like appearance and typically appear on the legs. Women are at least twice as likely as men to develop them. Many people who have this condition may find the veins unsightly which can get in the way of one’s self-esteem.

Many women (and men) cope with spider veins--small clusters of red, blue or purple veins. While spider veins may appear anywhere on the body, they typically are found on the legs. Unlike varicose veins, spider veins are not raised.

The exact cause of spider veins is unknown. Heredity, pregnancy, hormonal changes, sun damage, aging, weight changes or jobs involving long periods of sitting or standing are believed to be the main factors contributing to spider veins. Spider veins are not just a concern for older folks. In fact, they may sometimes develop in people who are in their 20s.

Vein problems such as varicose or spider veins are often just cosmetic concerns. However, they may be signifying an underlying health issue known as chronic venous insufficiency, or CVI.

CVI occurs when the valves in the veins are not working properly. Healthy veins move blood towards the heart, and they have valves that keep the blood from leaking the opposite way. When the valves are leaking, venous insufficiency occurs.

A blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the legs.

This condition is serious because blood clots can loosen and lodge in the lungs.

Leg pain or swelling may occur, but there may be no symptoms.