Spider veins are small blood vessels that appear blue or red on the skin. They usually develop on the face – around the nose, cheeks and chin. They can also be visible on the upper thigh, below the knee and around the ankles.

These blood vessels may be short, unconnected lines, each having the size of a large hair. They may also look like a spider web or branches of a tree. Spider veins can show up in areas of the body where they are not very noticeable, or they can cover a large portion of the skin and be very unsightly. Although some do not feel physical symptoms, patients go through spider vein removal procedures because of cosmetic concerns.

Other people with spider veins may experience pain that ranges from dull and throbbing to a burning feeling. The larger vessels are the ones likely to cause more discomfort.

The causes of spider veins are not entirely known. In some instances, poor blood circulation can lead to their development. Valves in the veins ensure blood flows in the right direction. If the valves do not function well, blood vessels may swell and appear as spider veins.

Although spider veins appear in both men and women, they occur more in females. Female hormones and pregnancy may contribute to their development. Furthermore, they seem to run in families.

Spider veins of fair-skinned people may be the result of sun exposure.

There is a variety of spider vein removal treatments. The treatment offered depends on the size of the spider veins and the presence of symptoms. The treatments include compression stockings, laser therapy, surgery, leg elevation while sleeping and sclerotherapy (injection of liquid into a vein).

Advertisements for numerous treatments often claim unique, painless and safe methods, which may make it difficult for people to choose the best remedy. Consult a doctor if you are not sure about the safety and effectiveness of any treatment.