Varicose Veins vs. Spider Veins - What's the Difference?
Varicose veins and spider veins are often confused with each other and used synonymously by many people. However, there are a lot of differences. Here we will explain those differences so you can identify what you have, and what is the best vein treatment plan. Varicose veins are veins that are large, swollen, twisted, and are protruding from under the skin. Sometimes they are visible with the naked eye, but many times, they are not visible with simple examination. Telangiectasia (aka Spider veins ) are tiny capillaries right on the surface of the skin. These usually form tiny networks or "webs" (hence the term "spider veins") and can be either pink/purple or red in color. What do Varicose Veins and Spider Veins have in common? 1. They are both unsightly and are of a cosmetic concern for most patients 2. They can both cause symptoms of heaviness, aching and tiredness 3. They both are often the result of an underlying cause 4. They can both be treate...