Over 40 million people in the United States suffer from venous diseases. However, there are different types, and two of the most common are varicose veins and spider veins. Each looks different and has different causes and treatments. The more information you get, the better you know how to treat your venous problems.
How Can You Differentiate One From Another?
Varicose veins and spider veins can be easily differentiated from the other, mainly by their appearance. One is bulkier and enlarged, while the other one is smaller and red. Let’s take a more in-depth look at each:
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are swollen, bulging blood vessels under the skin, usually blue in color. They’re larger and tend to twist and turn. They’re also typically found around the legs, behind the knees or ankles. Some can cause a lot of pain, heaviness, itchiness, burn, or can even bleed when it comes to discomfort. In other cases, they don’t cause any trouble other than visual displeasure.
Spider Veins
Spider veins are smaller, less than one millimeter in diameter, and form on the skin’s surface. They’re purple or red, and also twist and turn. Unlike most varicose veins, these web-like veins don’t cause severe problems. They are mainly treated to improve their cosmetics appearance and usually show up on the legs and face.
What Are Their Causes?
Both types of venous disorders are typically inherited. Almost 50% of varicose vein patients have a family history of these diseases. Other factors, such as obesity or standing or sitting for too long, contribute to these venous diseases’ appearance.
Varicose veins appear when valves function incorrectly, not allowing blood flow towards the heart. Blood tends to flow backward into the leg, increasing pressure and making the veins lumpy and purple.
Are They Treatable?
Venous diseases are very treatable, and the processes are usually simple and relatively painless.
If you live in Illinois and suffer from venous diseases, Windy City Veins specializes in treating these kinds of venous disorders. We provide non-invasive, outpatient procedures so you can gain your confidence back and get rid of those uncomfortable venous symptoms.
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