Many people don’t know the difference between varicose veins and spider veins. They are often confused about which one is more serious, and which one requires treatment. In this post, we will explore the differences between these two types of veins, and explain why it’s important to know the difference.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are a type of vein that become enlarged and twisted. They usually occur in the legs, but can also happen in other parts of the body. Veins have one-way valves that help blood flow smoothly in one direction. When these valves don’t work properly, blood can pool in the veins and cause them to enlarge. Varicose veins can be painful and may cause other problems, such as ulcers.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are smaller and less visible than varicose veins. They typically look like a spider web or tree branch, and they’re found on the face, neck, chest, and legs. Spider veins can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, age, pregnancy, weight gain, prolonged standing or sitting, and sun exposure.
What’s the difference between varicose veins and spider veins?
The main difference between varicose veins and spider veins is size. Varicose veins are larger, more visible, and can cause more serious symptoms than spider veins. Both conditions can be painful and uncomfortable, but varicose veins are more likely to cause pain, swelling, and skin ulcers. If you have either condition, it’s important to see a doctor or other medical professional for treatment.
Are spider varicose veins a thing?
Veins suffering from vein disease are typically classified as either varicose veins or spider veins. Varicose veins are large and bulging, while spider veins are smaller, close to the surface of the skin, and can look like a spider web or tree branch.
Varicose vs spider veins: Which are better?
Both varicose veins and spider veins are vein diseases that happen when the valves in your veins are not strong enough to efficiently funnel blood back to your heart. This can cause many health problems, including blood clots which could lead to death.
Varicose veins are typically worse than spider veins in that they are diseased veins that are more advanced in becoming swollen and twisting beneath the skin. Spider veins can progress to the point where they become varicose veins.
Varicose veins are more often to cause pain and restlessness. They also are more likely to result in blood pooling in the legs, which increases the chances of blood clots.
Spider veins vs varicose veins: Differences in treatment options
Treatment options for spider vs varicose veins are similar:
- Sclerotherapy: This is a procedure in which a doctor injects a chemical into the veins that makes them collapse. This is the most common treatment for spider veins, and it’s usually successful
- Laser, radio, or steam ablation: These are all procedures that use heat to destroy the veins
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: This is a procedure in which the doctor removes the veins with a tiny incision.
San Diego Vein Specialists
If you suffer from varicose veins or spider veins, it’s worth considering having a procedure done to cure the problem altogether by getting rid of the veins. If you are considering such a procedure, contact Kafri Wellness Clinic to schedule an evaluation and get more information.
At Kafri Wellness Clinic, we have over 25+ years of experience working with patients to address vein issues. We also take into consideration a cardiovascular approach towards your treatment to give you as much insight into your health as possible.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation to learn how we can help you, please contact us today!
