Vein Types

Premier Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery offers vein removal treatment options such as sclerotherapy and laser treatments.

Understanding Leg Veins

Leg vein disease is a common medical condition that occurs when valves within these veins become damaged and do not completely close, allowing blood to flow backwards (away from the heart). Increased pressure due to pooling of blood within these leg veins leads to the formation of varicose veins and symptoms such as aching, pain, swelling, and heaviness.

The Progression of Venous Disease

Aside from aesthetic concerns (spider veins), varicose veins of the legs can be associated with significant discomfort and limit regular activities. If untreated, progression to more advanced stages of venous disease may occur over time.

• Stage 1 – Spider Veins: Small, dilated veins in the skin that are of aesthetic concern and not associated with discomfort.
• Stage 2 – Varicose Veins: Large, dilated veins in the subcutaneous fat that may be associated with uncomfortable itching, burning, pain, aching, throbbing, cramping, fatigue, swelling, and heaviness.
• Stage 3 – Leg Edema: With longstanding vein disease, leg swelling can occur in the leg and ankle at the end of the day.
• Stage 4 – Skin Changes: The lower leg and ankle may develop areas of eczema, pigmentation, hardening of the skin, or a white spotty appearance in more advanced vein disease.
• Stage 5/6 – Leg Ulcers: The most advanced form of vein disease, which interferes with the oxygen supply of the skin and leads to breakdown of skin in the ankle

Spider Veins

Spider veins are red or, when larger, blue veins which occur in clusters and can be spread out like the branches of a tree. Each individual vein can be extremely thin, as thin as a sheet of paper, but usually no thicker than a gran of rice. They are extremely common in men and women.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are at least 5mm wide (1.5 inch, or slightly less than the width of a #2 pencil) but can be much larger. They tend to bulge from the skin and can form twisted mass of veins traveling along the leg. Varicose veins afflict one out of two Americans over the age of fifty and 2030% of adults. Symptoms are common and include pain, heaviness, tightness, cramps, swelling, and skin rashes. Ulcerations, blood clots, and bleeding are potential serious complications.

What Causes Varicose Veins and Spider Veins?

Approximately half of the population over the age of 50 will develop some degree of varicose or spider veins, and women are more commonly affected than men.

You may be at higher risk depending on a number of contributing factors, including:

• Gender
• Genetics/family history
• Prolonged sitting and standing
• Frequent heavy lifting
• Obesity and/or weight fluctuations
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause, and long-term use of birth control)
• Excessive sun exposure
• Lack of exercise
• Leg injuries

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