Veins can become enlarged with pools of blood when they fail to circulate the blood properly. These visible and bulging veins, called varicose veins, are often associated with symptoms such as tired, heavy, or aching limbs. Varicose veins are most common in the legs and thighs.
Spider veins are most common in the thighs, ankles, and feet.
They may also appear on the face. Varicose and spider veins can occur in men or women of any age, but most frequently affect women of childbearing years and older. Family history of the problem and aging increase one's tendency to develop varicose and spider veins. Varicose veins are common, affecting 1 out of 10 people, mostly women between the ages of 30 and 60. Causes include congenitally defective valves, thrombophlebitis, and pregnancy.