What Is a Varicose Vein Vs. a Spider Vein?
Though people use the terms varicose veins and spider veins interchangeably, this is incorrect. Varicose veins are the more serious of the two and lead to surgery more often. Both conditions can escalate from a mild to severe case.
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Identification
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Varicose veins are large bulging and twisted veins that are dark purple or blue. They typically affect the leg area and are more common in woman than men. Spider veins are a series of small broken blood vessels that branch out in a spider-like pattern. They develop under the skin's surface and appear to crawl up the legs and feet.
Facts
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People that suffer from spider veins have similar contributing factors to the 1 out of 2 people older than the age of 50 affected by varicose veins.
Consideration
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Some causes that affect both conditions can be eliminated by: Regular exercise to improve circulation, controlling weight to avoid pressure on legs and not crossing legs when sitting.
Warning
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Spider veins and varicose veins are generally a cosmetic issue. More serious cases of either condition can be treated with forms of laser or injection therapy, as well as surgery.
Solution
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Before deciding what to do about spider or varicose veins, consult a vein specialist in your area (See Resources). They can help determine the severity of your condition and suggest a course of treatment.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mo Riza
