Spider veins are the small, thread-like colored veins frequently seen on the surface of the skin. The red, blue, or purple vessels often appear in a network that resembles a spider’s web. They usually pose no health hazard but may produce a dull aching in the legs after prolonged standing, an indication of more severe venous disease.

Spider veins are formed by the dilation of a small group of blood vessels located close to the surface of the skin. Although they can appear anywhere on the body, they are commonly found on the face and legs. Other factors that can contribute to the formation of spider veins are:

• Heredity
• Occupations that involve a lot of standing, such as factory workers, nurses, hair stylists, massage therapists, and teachers 
• Obesity - excess weight places every organ in your body under greater stress, including your veins. 
• Hormonal influences experienced during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause. Both estrogen and progesterone enlarge the small veins, making them more visible on the skin’s surface.
• A history of blood clots

Spider veins and their underlying cause are quite treatable. While many people seek treatment primarily for cosmetic reasons, in some cases, spider veins can cause substantial discomfort, requiring therapy.

is commonly used for small varicose veins and spider veins. The procedure involves injecting a small volume of liquid into the diseased vein. The sclerosis liquid acts upon the lining of the vein and causes it to seal shut, eliminating the vein. Sclerotherapy is a brief procedure, requiring no anesthesia.