What’s the Difference Between Varicose Veins and Spider Veins?

More than 35% of adults have varicose veins, and 80% have spider veins. These visible vessels share a lot in common, but they’re two distinct conditions.

At New York’s Laser & Varicose Vein Treatment Center, led by our board-certified vascular surgeons Inam Haq, MD, FACS, and Sushilkumar Samant, MD, FACS, FICS, we provide advanced treatment options for varicose veins and spider veins. Here, they explain the similarities and differences.

How varicose veins and spider veins are alike 

Both varicose veins and spider veins are visible signs of venous damage caused by weakened vein valves and pressure build-up in the veins of the lower extremities. Here’s what they have in common:

Location 

Varicose veins and spider veins usually develop on the legs, including the thighs, calves, behind the knees, and ankles. Both affect veins situated just beneath the skin, making them highly visible.

Formation 

These venous conditions arise from faulty one-way valves in your veins that allow blood to pool. Over time, this back-up of blood increases pressure, causing the veins to swell, bulge, or contort. Spider veins occur when smaller capillaries at the end of these veins dilate and become visible. 

Risk factors 

Shared risk factors include:

• Age: Vein walls and valves can weaken over time
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop vein problems due to hormonal changes
• Pregnancy: Increased blood volume during pregnancy puts extra pressure on the veins
• Prolonged standing or sitting: Jobs that involve long periods in one position strain veins
• Obesity: Extra weight increases pressure on the veins
• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of activity reduces circulation
• Family history: Genetics can make you more susceptible to poor vein health

Smoking or vaping can also damage venous function.

Key differences between varicose veins and spider veins 

Despite their similarities, varicose veins and spider veins differ in appearance, symptoms, and health effects:

Appearance and size 

Varicose veins are large, swollen, rope-like veins that often bulge against the skin. They typically measure three millimeters or more in diameter. 

Spider veins are much smaller, measuring less than a millimeter. They appear as fine, web-like patterns and can be red, blue, or purple in color. 

Symptoms 

Varicose veins can cause discomfort, including heaviness, cramping, itching, swelling, and localized inflammation. These symptoms are more likely to occur and may worsen over time if left untreated. 

Spider veins, on the other hand, are usually painless. However, on rare occasions, they may lead to mild discomfort or burning sensations in the legs. 

Impact on health 

Spider veins are typically a cosmetic issue and don’t pose a serious health risk. 

Varicose veins, however, can lead to more severe complications, especially if untreated. Chronic varicose veins may cause circulation problems, skin changes, slow-healing ulcers, and persistent swelling (edema). 

Minimally invasive treatment options 

At the Laser & Varicose Vein Treatment Center, we provide safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatments for varicose and spider veins. Depending on your condition’s severity and specific needs, treatments may include:

• Sclerotherapy: A common procedure where we inject a solution directly into the vein, causing it to collapse and fade over time
• Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT): A catheter and laser fiber that delivers heat energy to the vein’s interior walls, causing it to close off
• Compression stockings: Medical-grade stockings that promote healthy blood flow and alleviate symptoms like swelling

We tailor treatment recommendations to your condition. For complex cases of varicose veins, laser therapy may be the best option, while sclerotherapy is ideal for spider veins or small-to-moderate varicose veins.

If you’re ready to address your vein concerns, schedule a consultation with Dr. Haq and Dr. Samant in Midland Beach of Staten Island or Borough Park of Brooklyn, New York. Our expert care team is here to help you regain comfort, confidence, and clear, healthy-looking skin. Call or book online today.