The simple answer is size. There are many similarities to varicose veins and spider veins. Technically spider veins are called telangiectasia and are dilated or enlarged tiny veins called venules. Varicose Veins are dilated or enlarged reticular veins [ the veins that normally run in below the surface skin in the reticular dermis]. Both spider veins and varicose veins are incompetent, which means their valve do not work properly and the don't carry blood back to the heart as well as they are supposed to. So both spider and varicose veins are enlarged and incompetent veins the big difference is the size. A spider veins is 1-2 mm in size and varicose vein can be up to 20 mm or greater in size.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Spider veins and varicose veins are both considered diseased veins. Both have faulty valves and are called different names based upon size. The risk for underlying venous insufficiency increases when varicose veins are present. However, patients surface veins are often a clue to underlying (below skin surface) venous disease and should be scheduled for an ultrasound before proceeding with any treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Great question. Varicose and spider veins are often manifestations of the same condition--venous insufficiency. Varicose veins are the larger, ropy bulging veins. Spider veins develop from smaller vessels and will appear as the slender purple or reddish veins. While some spider veins can cause discomfort, they are of no risk to the patient, and treatment can be obtained on a cosmetic basis. Varicose veins may cause complications such as pain, bleeding, blood clots, and ulcers. Treatment may be of medical benefit.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins are the big bulging rope-like veins seen in the legs. Spider veins are thin web-like veins on the skin. The two problems are usually independent of each other, with varicose veins representing a more serious condition.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Spider veins are a smaller version of bulging varicose veins. Sclerotherapy injections and stab phlebectomy are common treatments.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Varicose veins are dilated bulging veins under the skin. Spider veins are small thin veins in the skin itself. Varicose vein treatment is usually covered by medical insurance and spider vein treatment is not.

Published on Jul 11, 2012