The Truth About Veins: Spider Vs. Varicose Veins

There are two main types of veins that can cause people to become uncomfortable, self conscious, or just aware that they have a problem with their veins: spider veins and varicose veins. As two different types of veins that frequently get mistaken for each other, spider veins and varicose veins can both be treated by Atlas Vein Care. Read on to learn more about the distinctions between these types of veins and how they can be treated.

Spider Veins
Spider veins are small veins that get their name because they tend to resemble spider legs. Primarily visible on your arms, legs, face, and chest, spider veins do not discriminate and can easily be found across your entire body. Typically caused by things such as hormones and trauma, spider veins are most commonly found on pregnant women and children. Although typically not painful, spider veins can cause people to become a bit more self-conscious.

Luckily, at Atlas Vein Care, we can treat spider veins through a variety of treatments including foam sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, lifestyle changes, and compression stockings.

• Foam Sclerotherapy: During this removal procedure, a chemical called sclerosant will be injected into your veins and will seal them off.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: This removal process involves using a small catheter in order to administer a small amount of radiofrequency into your veins, which in turn closes them off.
• Lifestyle Changes: As one of the first methods used to treat both varicose and spider veins, losing weight and working out can help you to unclog your veins and get rid of these issues.
• Compression Stockings: As a temporary solution, compression stockings work to help with the blood flow in your leg and reduce any symptoms such as pain and irritation.

Varicose Veins
Unlike spider veins, which are small, varicose veins are large, purple colored veins that tend to primarily appear on the legs and feet. Typically harmless, varicose veins can be uncomfortable and unattractive. Caused by inflammation and the twisting and turning of veins, varicose veins can also be attributed to things such as heredity, weight, gender, and hormones. Luckily, just as with spider veins, there are several treatment options for varicose veins including microphlebectomy, sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, compression stockings, and lifestyle changes.

• Microphlebectomy: During this treatment, the entire vein will be removed by making tiny incisions into your skin.

If you suffer from either varicose or spider veins, contact the experts at Atlas Vein Care to learn more.