Spider and varicose veins are not only a source of insecurity but a source of discomfort as well. What can be done about them? Our experienced vein specialist in Bel Air, MD, explains the differences between the two and how they can be treated.
Spider veins are the lesser of the two evils, not necessarily painful or harmful, but certainly unpleasant to live with regardless. Spider veins are thin and appear as branches or webs, hence their name. They can be blue, red, or purple.
Spider veins are a result of the valves inside your veins no longer working correctly, causing blood to flow backwards and pool inside your veins. Sclerotherapy and laser treatments are best suited for spider vein removal, although compression socks or stockings are a great at-home option too.
Varicose veins, much like spider veins, are another form of venous insufficiency. However, varicose veins pose more issues. They’re larger than their benign counterpart and often appear as gnarled or twisted. They can cause symptoms like swelling, itching, pain, and bleeding.
Varicose veins put patients at a risk for blood clots or circulation issues, which is why treatment is especially important. Compression garments are recommended to relieve swelling and lower the risk of blood clots in patients with varicose veins.
According to our vein specialist in Bel Air, MD, other treatment options include sclerotherapy, endovenous laser therapy for smaller varicose veins, and surgery for severe cases of varicose veins.
Interested in learning more about spider and varicose veins and what can be done about these pesky, uncomfortable conditions? Then you need to talk with the #1 vein specialist in Belair, MD, here at The Vein Center of Maryland! Contact us at 410-970-2314 to book your free vein consultation visit today.