Varicose veins and spider veins are two different medical conditions with different symptoms and treatments.

Varicose veins are veins that have become dilated because of valve failure. When the valves fail, blood can pool in the veins and cause increased pressure, dilation, and pain. There are several procedures for treating varicose vein, including compression stockings, sclerotherapy injections, endovenous laser ablation or surgery. For more information, please see our Varicose Veins section.

Spider veins are a cosmetic condition marked by red, blue and purple lines resembling spider webs.  They are visible usually on the thighs, lower legs or face. They are typically only a cosmetic problem, rarely causing physical symptoms, but in some cases can be indications of more serious vein or artery conditions. Our vascular specialists may recommend treatment that includes compression stockings, sclerotherapy (injections into surface veins to close them) or laser therapy. For more information, please see our Spider Veins section.