How Do I Know What Type of Veins I Have?
Our legs contain a network of veins on the surface, as well as under the skin. Varicose veins are larger swollen blood vessels in the surface network that twist and appear as bluish cords. They are sometimes tender and always flatten out when you lie down. They can be associated with leg rashes, swelling, aching, throbbing, cramps, and restless legs. Spider veins are smaller thread like veins that do not improve or flatten out when you lie down. They only occasionally cause burning or stinging.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are caused when their valves do not work properly so that blood is not pumped back to the heart to recirculate. When this happens, blood pools in the vein, increasing pressure in the tissues of the legs. This pressure presents as throbbing, cramping, aching, swelling, itching, or an overall heaviness in the leg. In some cases, you may experience rashes, ulcers or clots.
What About Spider Veins?
Spider veins are smaller patches of flooded capillaries that twist and turn beneath the surface of the skin. Most often seen in the legs, chest or face, spider veins are red, purple, and blue. Though unattractive, spider veins are not dangerous but can be associated with underlying vein disease that needs to be fixed for medical reasons.