For many men and women alike, varicose veins and spider veins can be a real issue, both in matters of vanity and in health.

People often misunderstand the difference between varicose veins and spider veins. There are events that occur inside the body that lead to the formation of said veins. For example, the heart pumps purifi ed blood to the body’s organs. That purifi ed blood is then taken away to the arteries. However, our veins carry unpurifi ed blood from the organs to the heart to receive purifi cation.

If the valve allowing this process is weakened, the blood fl ows back into the veins and causes congestion. This congestion can lead to the enlargement of the veins, which can result in varicose veins or spider veins.

While both types of vein issues occur mostly on the legs, some can appear on other parts of the body, such as the face. The appearance of said veins is the easiest way to tell the two different types apart.

Varicose veins are large, bulky in appearance and are often described as blue, rope-like or twisted. They can actually be very painful. Spider veins are smaller in comparison to varicose veins, may be purple, red or blue, are located under the skin and are very unsightly. Sometimes they appear to resemble a spider’s web or even imitate a linear pattern.

People who experience issues with varicose veins or spider veins should see a vascular surgeon or phlebologist (a vein specialist) to assess their needs.

Dr. Robert L. Barrett, of the WK Vein Treatment Center, is one such specialist.

He fi rst began the Vein Treatment Center in North Louisiana in 1999, which was dedicated to venous disease. He is also a diplomat of the American Board of Phlebology and trained as a vascular fellow at Eastern Virginia School of Medicine, Norfolk.

Varicose veins and spider veins are unfortunately not always able to be avoided. “Since these veins are primarily caused by one’s genetic structure, they may not be totally preventable,” Barrett said.

Genetics, hormones and pregnancy all are contributing factors. So while not preventable, there are a few things that aid in making the veins worse.

“Prolonged periods of standing or sitting contribute to the formation of varicosities (varicose veins),” Barrett said.

Varicose veins and spider veins don’t play favorites or discriminate – both men and women may have varicosities, as well as people of all ages. “Because of the heredity factor, patients in their early teens may have issues with spider veins and varicose veins,” Barrett said. “Left untreated, these veins may become even worse with aging.”

Treatments for varicosities include compression hosiery, venous exercises or even surgical intervention, depending on the severity. These treatments are usually covered under one’s insurance plan.

Spider veins are more easily treated, usually by a cream such as CapiDerm Rx, or by a laser vein treatment such as Sclerotheraphy. Unfortunately, these treatments are usually not covered under insurance as the procedure is considered cosmetic. Treatment for telangectasias (spider veins) may include a series of either laser treatments or injections. Facial spider veins can be treated as well if desired.

While these veins aren’t preventable, they can sometimes be delayed by being aware of one’s health. “Paying close attention to venous health is always important,” Barrett said. “One can do this by exercising, maintaining a healthy diet to avoid obesity and avoiding injury to the legs.”

Learn more by visiting www.veindirectory.

com.

– Betsy St. Amant

TAKING CARE

Treatments for varicosities include compression hosiery, venous exercises or even surgical intervention, depending on the severity. These treatments are usually covered under one’s insurance plan.