How to Treat Vein Disease

While varicose and spider veins might be a cosmetic problem, leaving them untreated does more than affect your confidence. Varicose and spider veins are types of vein disease and can lead to serious medical complications over time. The Center for Vascular Medicine is home to a team of experienced specialists who are committed to the long-term treatment, monitoring and prevention of vascular disease.

Comparing and Contrasting Spider Veins and Varicose Veins

While spider veins and varicose veins sound similar, they’re actually different. Spider veins are small, web-like veins that do not usually bulge out of the skin, whereas varicose veins are large, bulging veins that can cause serious discomfort. Both are the result of blood collecting in veins when the vein valves weaken and don’t push blood back to the heart as efficiently as they should. Spider veins can also come from injuries, hormonal changes, or even prolonged sun exposure.

Risks of Untreated Vein Disease

Varicose veins are important to treat due to the risks of medical complications over time. When blood pools and clots inside inefficient veins, it puts you at greater risk of a pulmonary embolism, which is when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow. Varicose veins can also lead to open sores on the legs and can cause tingling or pain. Spider veins are often only a cosmetic concern, but in severe cases can bleed or become more pronounced in appearance.

Spider Vein and Varicose Vein Treatment

There are a variety of treatments available for varicose and spider veins ranging from simple treatments like compression socks to more in-depth vascular procedures. Of course, the most conservative treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent vein disease in the first place is exercise and a healthy diet, which has been shown to improve circulation and reduce pain and fatigue associated with vein disease. If your veins do indeed require medical treatment, there are many options available. Vein disease is usually not life-threatening on its own, but the potential for severe health problems as a result of untreated varicose and spider veins is too significant to ignore. Schedule a consultation with the experts at the Center for Vascular Medicine to protect your health and improve your confidence.