Spider Veins vs Varicose Veins—What is the Difference?
We are frequently asked about the differences between spider veins and varicose veins. In short, both spider veins and varicose veins are caused by the weakening of the valves, otherwise known as venous insufficiency. Spider veins can present as red, blue, or purple, thin, and thread-like vessels that are outwardly visible. Spider veins affect both women and men as they age. Genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, prolonged standing, obesity, and pregnancy can contribute to the development of spider veins. Spider veins are usually a cosmetic issue, but for a small subset, they can cause pain and discomfort. Spider veins are typically visible on the legs and face.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins, on the other hand, are misshapen and distended veins in the legs. Varicose veins develop when the valves in the veins collapse (or fail). These valves, each separated by an inch or two, are essential because veins are a low-pressure system. When one valve collapses, the next one in the chain must (but usually cannot) do double-duty. Wrong-way flow in the veins then causes the blood to accumulate, producing a distended appearance.
Key Differences Between Spider Veins and Varicose Veins
Although varicose veins can be asymptomatic, many patients experience nerve pain depending on the location of the protruding vein. Varicose veins can also feel heavy, achy, and itchy. Varicose veins can also lead to other health issues, like venous ulcers, if not managed effectively. Like spider veins, there is a genetic and familial likelihood of developing varicose veins.
Varicose veins can also be caused by pregnancy, aging, or being overweight. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure preferred to treat varicose veins. RFA treatment is quick and convenient, typically lasting a half-hour. Most patients respond very well to treatment. For patients with less severe and minimally painful varicose veins, Dr. David Nabi can employ Varithena in a simple sclerotherapy procedure. Varithena is a prescription microfoam that is inserted into the affected vein, allowing the vein to close and the blood to be redirected to healthy veins. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed in an office setting by injecting a prescribed medication into affected veins.
Treatment Options for Varicose Veins
Treatments range from the simple to the complex:
Elevating your legs may provide temporary relief.
Compression garments can change the pressure in your legs and improve blood flow.
Anti-inflammatories may reduce their appearance.
Aftercare for varicose vein procedures depends on your case and severity. Typically, it is advised that patients do not engage in rigorous exercise, heavy lifting, direct sun exposure, lengthy travel plans, certain medications/supplements, or immersing in hot water, hot tubs, or saunas. Your medical provider will advise on the length of time to avoid these activities, depending on what is best for you. Also, your doctor will usually prescribe the use of compression stockings to aid in your recovery.
Dr. David Nabi will evaluate your medical needs to promote the most effective course of action to alleviate your varicose veins so that you can live your best life.
Treatment Options for Spider Veins
Spider vein treatment is performed in a clinical setting with our in-house spider vein expert, Kellyn Perham, MMS, PA-C. Kellyn utilizes ASCLERA (polidocanol) for administering sclerotherapy, which “is the ONLY FDA-approved liquid polidocanol formulation used for the treatment of uncomplicated spider and reticular veins in the lower legs and for cases that are medically appropriate for sclerotherapy.” Asclera is injected into affected veins, causing them to seal shut and be reabsorbed into the body. The affected veins then fade from view over time. Sclerotherapy typically takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on your treatment plan.
Aftercare and Recovery
After sclerotherapy, your healthcare provider will prescribe compression stockings and instructions to optimize healing and safeguard your recovery.
For both the treatment of spider veins and varicose veins, it is important to provide a complete list of prescribed medications, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter medications to your provider to ensure speedy and excellent recovery.
When to See a Vascular Specialist
If spider veins have afflicted you, please reach out to NewportVascular.com for a consultation. Our spider vein expert, Kellyn Perham, MMS, PA-C, will provide you with a personalized treatment plan to help in treating your spider veins and answer any questions that you may have regarding the best course of action for optimal results.
If you are suffering from painful varicose veins that are disturbing your quality of life, please reach out to Dr. David Nabi, our vascular surgery specialist at NewportVascular.com. Dr. Nabi will tailor a procedure and course of treatment for your specific medical needs. You do not have to suffer in silence! At Newport Vascular, we will bring years of experience, care, and expertise to help you get back on track.