When most people think of varicose veins, they picture the elderly, suffering from inch after inch of bulging, painful looking colourful veins, interspersed with dozens of smaller yet still noticeable lines, known as "spider veins". You may be surprised to know then, that varicose veins affect not just the elderly but many adults of all ages. Studies suggest that almost half of women will have them at some time in their lives, compared to a quarter of men.