What are the differences between varicose veins and spider veins? Which one best describes what I might be suffering from?
A common question we often get at Superior Vein Care.
Varicose Veins
Are large bulging veins UNDER the skin, which develop when the valves that direct blood flow back to the heart fail.
Blood backwashes down the veins and causes them to dilate and twist. Why this happens is poorly understood, but is mostly do to genetics.
Treatment for varicose veins that cause symptoms and impact daily activities are usually covered by private insurers and government payers (Medicare and Medicaid).
Spider Veins
Also abnormal veins with failed valves, but they are much smaller and are actually IN the skin layer itself.
Are typically red and blue in clusters, thus the name 'spider' veins.
Are considered cosmetic and treatment is not covered by insurance.