What is the Difference Between Spider Veins and Varicose Veins?
If you’ve heard “spider veins” and “varicose veins” being used interchangeably, spider veins aren’t actually veins. They’re damaged small blood vessels that connect with larger blood vessels as part of your circulatory system.
Spider veins appear close to the surface of your skin and resemble a spider’s web. Spider veins are usually blue, purple or red. They tend to develop on the legs and face; their development is associated with age, genetics, hormonal changes, pregnancy or connective tissue diseases, to name a few. Prolonged standing or sitting, injury or trauma, sun exposure and smoking can also cause spider veins.
Veins are larger blood vessels that carry oxygen-poor blood back toward your heart. They are enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that develop in your legs due to blood pooling in deep veins. Like spider veins, varicose veins can be rather noticeable, and many people who develop them are bothered by their presence. Varicose veins can be caused by genetics, age, pregnancy, obesity, and prolonged standing and sitting.
Do spider veins turn into varicose veins?
Spider veins do not turn into varicose veins. Even though they share many of the same causes and risk factors, they are not one and the same. Varicose veins are usually larger than spider veins and tend to bulge outward from your skin.
Are unsightly veins harmful?
As unsightly as spider veins and varicose veins may be, they’re generally harmless. You should, however, contact your doctor about spider veins if you notice more developing on your face and legs because this can sometimes indicate blood flow problems that need to be addressed by a medical professional. Varicose veins can cause pain and discomfort, such as:
- burning
- throbbing
- leg fatigue
- swelling
- itching around the varicose veins
- achy or heavy feeling in your legs
If your varicose vein-related symptoms bother you, you should consult your doctor for a thorough evaluation.
Can you repair varicose veins?
Most people who have varicose veins and spider veins regard them as a cosmetic issue. It’s not uncommon for people who have them to feel self-conscious and seek treatment to eradicate these types of visible veins.
There are treatments for varicose veins, some less invasive than others. Your vascular provider can recommend treatment based on the size and location of your varicose veins and any symptoms they may be causing.
Go to firelands.com/varicoseveins for more information and treatment options.
