Last updated 2 days 7 hours ago
Spider veins and varicose veins are two types of venous disease that are caused by weak or damaged veins, sun exposure, hormone fluctuations, and a variety of other factors. Although they can be the result of similar causes, these two disorders are quite different in their appearance, symptoms, and complications. Below are the main differences between spider and varicose veins.
Spider veins are so named because they typically look like tiny, complex spider webs that appear on the surface of the skin. They are very close to the skin’s surface, but are never raised above it. Most spider veins are asymptomatic and do not pose any major health risks if left untreated. In some cases, however, this condition can cause burning, itching, pain, and discomfort at the site of the affected vein. Spider veins may also be a sign of a circulation problem occurring beneath the skin and may also lead to the development of a larger varicose vein.
Varicose veins are large, twisted veins that are almost cord-like in their appearance. Unlike spider veins, they are raised above the skin’s surface and can pose significant health risks if left untreated. Some patients can suffer from large, open sores called skin ulcers that are difficult to treat unless the varicosity is resolved. In rare cases, the pooling and stasis of blood in the varicose vein can lead to the development of a clot, which can be life threatening.
If you are suffering from the effects of varicose or spider veins, consider having your condition diagnosed and treated by the experts at the Chicago Vein Institute. Our advanced treatments are focused on getting you looking great and feeling better sooner, with less discomfort and a shorter recovery time. For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, call our staff at (773) 649-4678.
Last updated 8 days ago
Varicose veins occur when a valve within the vein becomes damaged or dysfunctional, leading to the backflow of blood and pooling within the vein. Although this condition can be successfully treated, the venous disease causing it is a chronic condition. The closure or treatment of the enlarged, damaged vein will improve the appearance of the vein and improve circulation, but will not reduce the patient’s tendency for developing future varicosities. Regular surveillance and preventive action are both important after a successful varicose vein treatment.
After initial treatment, patients should consider returning for regular follow-up visits and yearly ultrasound exams. If you are interested in having your varicose veins evaluated and treated, contact the Chicago Vein Institute at (773) 649-4678 to schedule your free consultation today.
Last updated 14 days ago
You may not think about how your circulatory system works until it begins to function improperly, but this system of veins, arteries, and smaller blood vessels is an incredible feature of the human body. The veins of the legs in particular are fascinating, hard-working structures that regularly fight the downward force of gravity to send blood back to the heart. There are three venous systems: Deep Venous System, Superficial Venous System and Perforating Venous System Deep Venous System
· The deep venous system: The deeper veins of the legs are surrounded by muscles that lie near the bone. These veins feature valves that open when the muscles contract and close when the muscle relaxes to prevent blood from flowing the wrong way. Ninety percent of venous blood is pumped out of the legs through the deep venous system.
· The superficial venous system: Like the deep veins, superficial veins have valves to regulate their flow. However, these veins are not supported by the muscles because they are located within the fat cells of the leg. The valves of the superficial veins are vulnerable to damage and may sometimes be visible on the skins surface.
· The perforating venous system: Blood travels from the superficial venous system to the deep venous system via the perforating veins.
How the venous systems work together
The combination of the deep, superficial and perforating venous systems, the leg muscles, and the various valves throughout the lower venous system form a pumping reflex secondary to the heart. The entire mechanism is often referred to as the second heart. The second heart system works through small valves between the veins, along with muscle movement in the legs. This system is constantly sending deoxygenated blood back to the heart. When problems arise due to factors, such as pregnancy, being overweight, or aging, that cause the superficial veins to weaken, the whole second heart is compromised. Blood flows backwards in the veins as the valves weaken, and you become at risk for various health problems, including varicose veins, spider veins, and more serious vascular issues.
Learn more about varicose veins and what you can do to treat them by visiting Chicago Vein Institute. Contact us on our website or call (773) 649-4678 for information about all of our minimally invasive varicose vein treatments.
