Spider veins

Spider veins are small blood vessels that can be seen through the skin. They can look like lines that branch out like a web. They can be different colors such as red, blue, or purple.

Spider veins usually don't cause symptoms. But for some people, spider veins may cause mild itching or burning or an achy feeling.

Your doctor usually can tell if you have spider veins by looking at them. During an exam, your doctor will look at your skin. The doctor may also check for tender areas, swelling, skin color changes, ulcers, and other signs of skin breakdown. If your doctor thinks there is another problem causing spider veins, you may need other tests.

Spider veins usually don't need to be treated. But if you don't like how they look, there are cosmetic treatments that can make the veins fade. They include:

• Sclerotherapy. This involves injecting a solution that causes the vein to close.
• Laser therapy. Light is used to destroy the vein.

There are also things you can do to conceal them. You can use clothing or a special makeup to hide them.