Yes, these visible blue-green veins are especially visible on the lateral and anterior thighs and are known as Reticular Veins. They are so-called because of the 'reticular' or net-like pattern that they sometimes appear to make.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins are painful and/or bulging. Normal veins are sometimes visible. Spider veins are genetic and can be treated with a series of injections.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It is probably normal, but you would need a duplex ultrasound evaluation to make sure they are not early varicose veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes it is normal, but sometimes people don't like the appearance. Improvement can be obtained cosmetically with sclerotherapy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, it is very common on fair-skinned people to be able to see the vein network under the skin. This may be more obvious during times of exertion. As long as you do not have other symptoms (varicose veins, swelling, burning, pain, itching, etc.) you will just have to reconcile the fact that they are visible. Spider veins can be controlled if you have them treated every few years. Some injections when done well can last 10+ years. Hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You can have visible veins which are perfectly normal, especially if you have thin skin as you have described. However, if you have any symptoms of vein disease, such as heavy, achy legs or swelling around your ankles, it is best to see a vein specialist and make sure the veins you are seeing are not pathological (abnormal).

Published on Jul 11, 2012

These types of visible veins in people with the skin type you describe are quite normal. They are called reticular veins. Providing there are no symptoms, bulging or skin changes, these do not require treatment. A light self tanner or moisturizer with some pigment can be enough to decrease the visibility if these concern you. Spider veins are the very fine, red/blue veins visible right on the surface of the skin. The presence of the blue veins doesn't mean you'll get spider veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The veins that you are referring to are reticular veins. They are the veins that connect your spider veins to your larger deeper veins. Contrary to popular belief, these veins should not be visible. You see them because they are abnormal veins that have dilated. You do not see them because your skin is pale or translucent. Fortunately, they typically do not become ropey, but they can eventually cause you to have discomfort in your legs. When they do, it is time to address them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Those blue veins are normal, but can be removed with sclerotherapy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This issue would be better addressed by a vein specialist. He or she would be able to give you treatment options for spider veins as well.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Those veins are normal, and visible because of your skin.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It's very common and doesn't necessarily mean you will have a problem with varicose veins. See a vascular specialist for an ultrasound exam to be sure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The veins that you are describing are called reticular veins. They are larger than spider veins, but smaller than varicose veins. They tend to be more prominent in fair-skinned individuals. They can be a normal finding but they also can be due to underlying malfunctioning valves in the saphenous system of veins. See a vein specialist for an evaluation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It is quite common to see blue reticular veins, particularly if the skin is fair. It doesn't necessary mean their is a serious vein problem, but hundreds of patients see me each year for this exact issue for cosmetic reasons. A vein specialist can easily correct this by injecting gentle solutions into these veins. You will wear support hose for 1-2 weeks after the procedure. This is best done when the weather is cold or cool because most patients don't like wearing compression hose when it's hot.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, it can be normal, but you may also have the beginnings of venous disease.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This could be the beginning signs of venous insufficiency. Regardless, they can be treated.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This is entirely normal.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

If you are thin and have translucent skin, these blue veins may be completely normal. Spider veins generally are not, but usually only cosmetic in nature. These can be treated in various ways for cosmetic reasons if desired. Consider seeing a vein specialist for evaluation if you are considering treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Some individuals might have "translucent skin" and it would be normal to see many superficial veins. If you have family history of varicose veins or other vein conditions, you should have a consultation and exam by a vein specialist to determine if it is all normal, or you have venous reflux and developing vein disease.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, they can be normal. But if you are getting spider veins or any swelling or cramps, I would seek a consultation with a vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012