Understanding the Difference between Spider Veins and Varicose Veins

As we get older, vein diseases like spider veins and varicose veins may start to affect us. Some issues, such as itching, burning, swelling, and even fatigue, will come with it. The two most common vein diseases are varicose veins and spider veins. People often use these terms interchangeably. Although they do share many similar qualities, these two conditions differ in many ways. Let’s take a look.

The Difference between Spider Veins and Varicose Veins

Spider veins

Spider veins, when compared to varicose veins, tend to be smaller in size. They are classified as one millimeter or less in diameter. They may appear in a spider web shape just beneath the skin, hence the name.

Due to their location beneath the skin, spider veins tend to be more visible and can also appear on the face, neck, chest, and back. The symptoms associated with spider veins, other than aesthetic appeal, are usually not negative.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that bulge from under the skin. They can be spotted easily, considering they are at least four millimeters in diameter and appear in many different patterns. They can twist beneath the skin, but a majority of the visibility is due to the protrusion of the vein.

Predominantly located in the lower extremities of the legs, thighs, and feet, varicose veins can, on occasion, present itself in other areas of the body. Unlike spider veins, symptoms of varicose veins include itching, burning, soreness, and fatigue of the limbs.

Preventing Spider Veins and Varicose Veins

Different things can cause vein disease, such as lack of vascular care, heredity, standing profession, age, being overweight, hormonal issues, and pregnancy. It may be easier for some to get spider veins and vascular veins than others, considering their age, profession, and family history—but about 80% of vein disease patients are women and only 20% are men.

If you have a job where you are standing for the duration of work, make sure to take sitting breaks and just relax. Spider veins and varicose veins both have something to do with the weakening of valves and the veins themselves, so strengthening them is key. Make sure to work out your legs adequately. Set aside some time to work on your legs if you’re a gym person.

Treating Vein Disease at Las Vegas Vein Center

Treating vein diseases such as spider veins and varicose veins at Las Vegas Vein Center focuses on a quick recovery time. With procedures such as Sclerotherapy treatment, a simple injection is made to close the vein and reduce the appearance and symptoms over time. This allows you to go about our normal routine instead of having to spend a lot of time in recovery.