Besides being unsightly, varicose veins and spider veins come with a handful of warning signs and early symptoms to alert you that you may have a vein disorder. What are these signs? The Vein Clinic of Kansas City explains below.
What Is the Difference between Varicose and Spider Veins?
Although spider veins and varicose veins are caused by similar factors, they are not the same. It is often assumed that one disorder leads to the other, however that is not the case. Whereas varicose veins are large, swollen, and occur singularly on the legs, spider veins are delicate and tend to develop in clusters.
Related Read: The 5 Misconceptions About Vein Issues & Treatment
Early Symptoms of Vein Disorders
While these symptoms may be present for other reasons, two or more at nearly the same time may be an indication of varicose veins. Early symptoms of varicose veins may include:
- Leg fatigue
- Pain or a heavy feeling in the legs relieved by elevation
- Large twisted veins, bulging above the surface of the skin
- Swelling of the ankle or lower leg
- Discolored, dry, itchy skin near the ankle
- A rash or skin ulceration on the ankle or lower leg
Spider veins are oftentimes asymptomatic and only unsightly. But spider veins may be associated with the following:
- Burning
- Itching
- Aching
- Heavy legs that tire easily, and worsen as the day progresses
- Pain relief from walking, elevating the legs or wearing compression garments
Do you think that you are suffering from a vein disorder? If you still have more questions about vein issues and treatment, or would like to come in for a consultation, give Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City a call at 913-541-5343.
