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Understanding Varicose and Spider Veins: Causes, Symptoms, and Minimally Invasive Treatments
If you’ve noticed veins that look swollen, twisted, or web-like on your legs, you’re not alone. Varicose and spider veins are common vascular conditions that affect millions of people. While they’re often viewed as cosmetic concerns, these veins can also signal underlying health issues. At TRA Endovascular, we specialize in diagnosing and treating varicose and spider veins with minimally invasive procedures that prioritize your health and comfort.
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between varicose and spider veins, their causes, symptoms, and the cutting-edge treatments available to help you feel confident and pain-free.
What Are Varicose and Spider Veins?
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, bulging veins that commonly appear on the legs and feet. They develop when the valves in your veins weaken or fail, causing blood to pool and veins to stretch.
- Appearance: Twisted, rope-like veins, often blue or dark purple.
- Symptoms:
- Aching or heavy legs
- Swelling in the lower legs
- Cramping or throbbing pain
- Itching or skin discoloration around the affected veins
Spider Veins
Spider veins are smaller, web-like clusters of veins that are closer to the surface of the skin. While they’re typically less severe than varicose veins, they can still cause discomfort.
- Appearance: Thin, thread-like veins in red, blue, or purple that spread like a web.
- Symptoms:
- Mild burning or itching sensation
- Cosmetic concerns without significant pain
What Causes Varicose and Spider Veins?
Both conditions share similar risk factors and underlying causes, including:
- Genetics: Family history is a significant factor.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal treatments can increase risk.
- Age: Veins lose elasticity as we age, making them more prone to dysfunction.
- Lifestyle: Prolonged sitting or standing, lack of exercise, or obesity can increase pressure on veins.
- Injury: Trauma to the legs can contribute to vein damage.
Why Seek Treatment?
Ignoring varicose veins isn’t just about aesthetics—it can lead to complications like:
- Chronic swelling and pain
- Skin ulcers near the ankles
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious blood clot condition
Minimally Invasive Treatments at TRA Endovascular
At TRA Endovascular, we use state-of-the-art technology to offer treatments designed to minimize downtime and maximize results.
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
EVLA uses laser energy to seal off the affected vein. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and patients can typically return to normal activities within days.
- Best For: Larger varicose veins.
- Benefits: Minimally invasive, fast recovery, and effective symptom relief.
- Sclerotherapy
This procedure involves injecting a solution directly into spider or small varicose veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time.
- Best For: Spider veins and small varicose veins.
- Benefits: Non-surgical and quick results.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA is a thermal treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to close off diseased veins, redirecting blood flow to healthier ones.
- Best For: Moderate to severe varicose veins.
- Benefits: Minimally invasive, highly effective, and no general anesthesia required.
- Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy
A specialized foam is injected into larger veins under ultrasound guidance, making it a precise and effective option for more complex cases.
- Best For: Large or recurrent varicose veins.
- Benefits: Quick procedure, minimal discomfort, and targeted results.
Why Choose TRA Endovascular?
- Expert Team: Our board-certified interventional radiologists have extensive experience in vascular health.
- Advanced Technology: We utilize the latest imaging and treatment techniques.
- Patient-Centered Care: From diagnosis to follow-up, we prioritize your comfort, education, and outcomes.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Veins
Whether you’re seeking relief from pain or looking to restore confidence in your legs’ appearance, TRA Endovascular is here to help. Our minimally invasive treatments are designed to get you back to your life quickly and with lasting results.
Schedule Your Consultation
Call us today or request an appointment online to learn more about our personalized vein treatment options: 253-284-0841.
Your journey to healthier, pain-free legs starts here.