When people see those unattractive veins on their legs, they call them spider veins or varicose veins and leave it at that. However, these are actually two different disorders. Not sure what the difference is? Just keep reading.
Spider Veins and Varicose Veins: What’s the Difference?
- Where are the veins located? Spider veins will show up on your legs or face while varicose veins typically only end up on your legs.
- Are the veins on the surface of the skin or are they raised above the skin? Spider veins will be on the surface while varicose veins are pretty thick and are raised above the skin.
- Check out the color of the veins. If they are blue or red and thin, they are spider veins. However, if they are blue or dark purple and swollen, they are varicose veins.
- Do you have any pain associated with the veins? If so, they are probably varicose veins. Spider veins are typically not painful.
- Observe the pattern of the veins. If they look like a spider web or tree branches, they are spider veins. Varicose veins will appear twisted and bulge above the skin.
- Have you noticed any changes since the veins appeared? If not, the veins are probably spider veins. But, if you’re experiencing cramps, aches, or you appear more tired, they are varicose veins.
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