Varicose veins are swollen veins that can often be seen through your skin. They often can look dark purple or blue, bulging, and twisted. Left untreated, varicose veins may worsen over time. Varicose veins can cause aching and feelings of fatigue as well as skin changes like rashes, redness, and sores. The underlying condition that causes varicose veins is called venous reflux disease. As many as 40 million Americans have venous reflux disease, including as many as 30% of women and 20% of men.

Spider veins are mild varicose veins at the skin surface. They look like a nest of red or blue lines just under your skin. Spider veins are not a serious medical problem, but they can be a cosmetic concern to some people, and they can cause symptoms of aching pain and itching in others.