Varicose Veins & Spider Veins

Closely related, varicose veins and spider veins, the most common vein disorders, can manifest as embarrassing, unsightly skin imperfections. At least half of the women and 40 percent of the men in the U.S. suffer some type of vein problem, and although both spider and varicose veins may seem similar, the difference is actually great.Varicose veins, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems. Spider veins, on the other hand, are usually considered to be a cosmetic problem. So how do you tell the difference?

Spider veins appear as small, purple veins just below the skin's surface, usually on the legs or face, and do not bulge as the larger, bluish-colored varicose veins do. Spider veins can look like a sunburst of tiny veins with jagged lines. Varicose veins, commonly found on the inside of a leg or back of calves, can appear as large, twisted ropes that are raised above the skin.

Varicose veins can cause pain and swelling as well as bleeding and ulcers. Varicose veins can also result in life-threatening blood clots. A physician or surgeon specializing in vascular disease can determine if you suffer from spider or varicose veins and provide non-invasive or minimally invasive treatment, generally in a clinic. Surgical vein stripping is no longer necessary.

Both spider veins and varicose veins can be hereditary and caused by a venous insufficiency. When one-way valves in the veins that normally prevent blood from flowing backwards rather than up the leg to the heart become weak, blood leaks back into the vein and collects, causing an enlargement of the vein. So, normal veins dilate due to the increase in venous pressure. Vein problems occur more often in the legs because the pressure is greater.

Other factors that can cause varicose or spider veins may include:

• Age. Although even young people can develop spider and varicose veins, most people suffering with varicose veins are older adults, usually age 50 or older.

• Pregnancy and other hormonal changes. Medications including estrogen and progesterone can also increase your risk of developing spider or varicose veins.

• Obesity

• Standing for long periods of time

Sun exposure can also cause spider veins on the face.

If you are unsure whether your vein problem is actually varicose veins or spider veins, you should consult a specialist. Varicose veins treatment is usually covered by insurance, and you could be saving your own life by taking that first step. Please note that this hub is for information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.