You might have heard of spider veins and varicose veins, but do you know how are they different? Spider veins are the smaller version of varicose veins, and they’re both dilated blood vessels that result from weak walls or valves of veins. The primary difference between spider veins vs. varicose veins, then, is their appearance — the former is more swollen and raised, while the latter has a superficial or smaller look. Learn all about these conditions in this blog!
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins can be described as small, damaged veins that resemble thin lines or branched webs on your legs, close to the skin’s surface. Also known as thread veins, they’re blue, red, or purple in color. Generally, spider veins do not cause pain or signify worsening health conditions. People usually seek treatment for spider veins just for cosmetic concerns, as it can affect their appearance.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Spider veins can be described as small, damaged veins that resemble thin lines or branched webs on your legs, close to the skin’s surface. Also known as thread veins, they’re blue, red, or purple in color. Generally, spider veins do not cause pain or signify worsening health conditions. People usually seek treatment for spider veins just for cosmetic concerns, as it can affect their appearance.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins, in simple terms, are enlarged veins that bulge and twist right under the surface of the skin. Though they have multiple causes, it generally comes down to this: gravity and time lead to increased pressure in the veins, causing them to dilate and protrude the skin. Varicose may be a cosmetic concern only for some people, but it can be a source of pain for others. Moreover, varicose veins can be an indicator of potential health issues that require medical attention.
Spider Veins vs. Varicose Veins: The Primary Differences
The main difference between spider veins and varicose veins lies in their appearance. If you are dealing with spider veins, they look like tiny red or blue lines that are usually less than 1 mm in diameter. The veins resemble branches, present just below the surface of your skin. As for varicose veins, they are twisted and bulging blood vessels, typically blue. You can see and feel the veins right under the surface of your skin. They may even cause changes in the skin and may bring forth other health complications.
Varicose veins usually appear on the calf, the back of the leg, or inside the thigh. Spider veins, on the other hand, can appear anywhere but generally appear on the legs as well. That’s not all; while spider veins are mostly a mere cosmetic problem, the same is not true for varicose veins. You will feel heaviness, itching, pain, swelling, tingling, and other symptoms due to varicose veins. Spider veins may sometimes cause pain and itchiness, but they’re not as serious.
Treatments for Spider Veins & Varicose Veins
There are multiple treatments available for both spider veins and varicose veins. The specialist will choose a treatment based on your age, symptoms, overall health, and personal preference. Generally, treatments for these conditions include:
- Sclerotherapy
- Laser Treatments
- Endovenous Ablation
- Mini-phlebectomy
- Surgical Ligation and Stripping
Conclusion
You can talk to our specialists at Memorial Cardiology Associates for varicose veins, spider veins, and other conditions you may have. Our heart specialists have the solutions you need! So, without further ado, talk to us now at:
- Memorial City (713) 464-6006
- Katy West (281) 398-4944
- Greater Heights (713) 861-2424
- Bellville (713) 464-6006