Spider veins are dilated vessels that are near the surface of the skin. They may be red, blue, or purple in color and they get their name from their web-like appearance. Most spider veins are not painful and present only a cosmetic concern due to their appearance on the legs or the face.
Varicose veins usually occur in the lower legs. They are often blue or deep purple, bulging, and twisted to give them a ropelike appearance. People are more likely to come to the Hackensack vascular surgeon for treatment of varicose veins than spider veins because of the symptoms of pain and swelling that may accompany them.
Many people think that spider veins are varicose veins which have not gotten large. Varicose veins are actually larger veins. Although spider veins may be a sign that there are other problems in veins that are out of sight, they do not usually get the same medical concern of varicose veins. Another difference is that insurance usually covers the treatment of varicose veins while they do not usually pay for spider vein treatment.
If you experience pain with spider veins, you will need to see a top vascular specialist in Bergen County to determine the full extent of your vein condition. You should also contact us for an evaluation of your varicose veins to learn how well your entire vascular system is functioning and your options for treatment.