When veins become abnormally thick, full of twists and turns, or enlarged, they are called varicose veins.
Spider veins are smaller feather-like veins on the surface that have been effected, while reticular, or “feeder veins” are smaller branches that lead to larger veins. These venous conditions are often symptoms of superficial venous insufficiency (SVI). Varicose veins may appear on the thighs, backs of the calves, or the inside of the legs. Although not life-threatening, varicose veins can progress to skin changes, wounds and other more serious conditions.1,2
