Often we are asked about the Differences Between Varicose Veins and Spider Veins and it’s a question we are always happy to answer. Let’s finally get one common misconception out of the way: varicose veins and spider veins are not the same thing. In fact, you can have both spider veins and varicose veins in one leg at the same time. If you suspect you have a circulatory problem but you’re not quite certain what you’re dealing with, here is what you need to know.
Varicose veins are:
- Distended, typically puffy veins where a deteriorating valve causes blood to pool. They are thick and often ropey, and may protrude significantly beneath the surface of the skin.
- Varicose veins may cause discomfort and swelling and may lead to more significant problems, including deep vein thrombosis and blood clots.
Spider veins are:
- Small blood vessels visible beneath the skin, often noticeable as a “web” of blue veins. They are thin, do not protrude beneath the skin and usually indicate minor circulatory problems.
- Spider veins are typically harmless and do not have a long term health impact, although they may be an indicator of problems with varicose veins. Spider vein treatment is usually desired for cosmetic reasons.
One thing that spider veins and varicose veins share is that advanced treatments can eliminate both without pain, need for lengthy recuperation, or serious side effects. Non-surgical varicose vein treatments and spider vein treatments are proven effective in the short term and also reduce occurrence of future problems over the long term. In the case of varicose veins, treatment is crucial to avoid more serious health complications.
Vein Care experts in Melbourne can advice and guide for treatment of varicose veins and spider veins.Thousands of patients have already benefited from non-surgical vein treatments that eliminate unsightly abnormal veins and reduce the likelihood of more serious problems developing. Stop in for a brief consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
