The Difference Between Varicose and Spider Veins

Woman laying on white hammock with only legs visible
Summer can mean the end of hibernation for your legs, and if you suffer from varicose or spider veins it may feel self-conscious about donning a swimsuit or shorts. Now that the temperatures are starting to cool off you might be thankful that you can once again wear pants to cover your problem areas. However, before you reach for those jeans, the fall and winter season might be an ideal time. Besides being able to visibly see veins, here are some common symptoms associated with vein conditions. 

Veins that are unsightly or cause pain or other symptoms are candidates for treatment. The two general treatment options are conservative measures such as compression stockings, or corrective measures such as surgery, sclerotherapy, laser, and radiofrequency treatment. Most of these procedures are performed in our office as an outpatient procedure.
  • Leg pain
  • Swelling
  • Restless legs
  • Burning sensation
  • Heaviness in leg
  • Skin discoloration
  • Leg ulcer and or tiredness

Studies indicate that more than 23-percent of all adults are affected by vein disorders. Contrary to what many people might think, leg veins are not all the same. While pregnant and overweight women have an increased risk of developing varicose veins, anyone can develop them. 

What are varicose veins?
Varicose Veins are a bulging vein that protrudes past the skin surface and usually measures greater than one-fourth of an inch (6.4 mm) in diameter. Varicose veins can range in size and stages and in severe case rupture. When a vein is dilated or its valves are damaged, blood moves in the wrong direction. It leaks down the leg vein and “backs up.” This can cause the leg to ache and swell, feel tired, heavy, or full. Problems with the saphenous veins can harm the side veins that drain into them, causing the smaller veins to dilate and become varicose too. Varicose veins can cause 
  • Bleeding
  • Changes in skin color
  • Ulcers
If blood clots in a varicose vein, the vein walls can become inflamed (superficial thrombophlebitis). Sudden pain, redness, or swelling in the affected area may result.

What are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are typically blue or red in color and the vein does not protrude above the skin’s surface. 
When tiny blood vessels just below the skin's surface dilate, they can be visible. 
Clusters of spider veins can even resemble a bruise. Spider veins can form due to:
  • Heredity
  • Injury
  • Pregnancy
  • Hormonal changes. 
These veins are generally not harmful, but their appearance can make you self-conscious. In rare cases, these vessels can bleed, causing more serious problems.

Vein & Laser Center of Joliet offers a wide range of treatment options for problem veins of all types. Depending on your symptoms and conditions, we tailor our treatment plans to best suit your needs. The following symptoms can be related to vein conditions: Leg pain, swelling, restless leg, burning sensation, heaviness in leg, skin discoloration, leg ulcer and or tiredness as part of vein condition or symptoms. 

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