Top 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Varicose and Spider Veins

1. What’s the difference between varicose veins and spider veins?

Spider veins are small, thin veins that appear close to the surface of the skin. They look like red, purple, or blue lines or webs, usually on the thighs, calves, or face.

Varicose veins are larger, swollen, twisted veins that are typically raised above the skin’s surface. They most often occur on the legs and can cause symptoms like aching, heaviness, and swelling.

While both are signs of venous insufficiency, varicose veins indicate a more advanced stage of vein disease and may require more involved treatment.

2. What causes varicose and spider veins?

The most common cause is chronic venous insufficiency, where the valves in your veins become weak or damaged. This causes blood to flow backward and pool in the veins, increasing pressure and making veins bulge or branch out.

Other contributing factors include:

Genetics and family history
Aging
Pregnancy
Obesity
Prolonged sitting or standing
Hormonal changes (birth control, menopause)

3. Are varicose veins dangerous or just a cosmetic issue?

While many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, varicose veins are often a sign of underlying vein disease. If left untreated, they can lead to complications such as:

Leg swelling and pain
Skin discoloration
Chronic inflammation
Venous ulcers (non-healing leg wounds)
Superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation and clotting in a surface vein)

If you’re experiencing discomfort, heaviness, or swelling, it’s important to seek medical evaluation—even if the veins don’t look severe.

4. How do I know if I have vein disease?

Common symptoms of vein disease include:

Visible varicose or spider veins
Leg fatigue or heaviness (especially at the end of the day)
Swelling in the ankles or calves
Throbbing, itching, or burning sensations
Nighttime leg cramps or restlessness
Skin changes or discoloration around the ankles

If you have any of these signs—especially in combination—it’s a good idea to schedule a vein evaluation with a specialist.

5. Can men get varicose veins too?

Yes! While vein disease is more commonly diagnosed in women, men can absolutely develop varicose veins, especially those with risk factors like:

A family history of vein disease
Long periods of standing or heavy lifting
Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
Past leg trauma or blood clots

Men often delay treatment, which can lead to more advanced disease before they seek help.

6. What are the treatment options for varicose and spider veins?

Modern vein treatments are minimally invasive, effective, and performed in-office with little to no downtime. Some of the most common options include:

For Spider Veins:

Visual Sclerotherapy: Injection of a solution that collapses the vein
Laser Therapy: Uses light to heat and seal small veins

For Varicose Veins:

Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy: For deeper or feeding veins
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) : Uses heat to close diseased veins
Ultrasound-guided Foam Sclerotherapy: Removal of bulging veins through micro-incisions

All of these treatments restore healthy blood flow and reduce visible veins, symptoms, and complications.

7. Are vein treatments painful?

Most patients find modern vein treatments to be very tolerable. Local anesthesia is used for procedures like EVLT or RFA, and sclerotherapy uses a tiny needle.

You may feel:

A slight pinch or burning sensation during injections
Mild pressure or heat during ablation procedures

Downtime is minimal, and discomfort afterward is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and compression stockings.

8. Do vein treatments work permanently?

Yes, treated veins are permanently closed or removed and will not come back. However, vein disease is a chronic condition, and other veins may become problematic over time, especially if underlying factors (like standing long hours or hormonal shifts) continue.

That’s why ongoing vein health maintenance—such as exercise, leg elevation, and wearing compression when needed—is so important after treatment.

9. Will insurance cover vein treatment?

It depends on the type of vein and whether the treatment is medically necessary.

Insurance typically covers:

Ultrasound evaluation of veins
Treatment for varicose veins causing symptoms (pain, swelling, ulcers)
Procedures like EVLT for venous reflux

Insurance typically does not cover:

Cosmetic treatment for spider veins
Non-symptomatic, superficial veins

At Sheen Vein & Cosmetics, we offer insurance verification and pre-authorization support to help you navigate coverage.

10. Can I prevent varicose or spider veins?

While you can’t change your genetics, you can reduce your risk and slow the progression of vein disease with simple lifestyle strategies:

Prevention Tips:

Avoid prolonged sitting or standing—move every 30–60 minutes
Elevate your legs to improve circulation
Wear compression stockings if you’re on your feet often
Exercise regularly—walking is excellent for vein health
Maintain a healthy weight
Stay hydrated and reduce sodium intake

If you already have signs of vein disease, early intervention is key. Treating the issue before it progresses helps prevent long-term complications.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Vein Health

Varicose and spider veins are more than just cosmetic nuisances—they’re often signs of underlying vein disease that deserves attention. The good news? Today’s vein treatments are safe, effective, and minimally invasive, with many covered by insurance when medically necessary.

If you have questions or concerns about your veins, don’t wait. An experienced vein specialist can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment to get your legs—and your confidence—back.

Ready to Find Relief?

At Sheen Vein & Cosmetics, we specialize in state-of-the-art vein care using a functional, personalized approach. From diagnostic ultrasound to in-office treatment, we’re here to help you look and feel your best.

Schedule your vein consultation today and take the first step toward healthier circulation and symptom-free legs.

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