What to Expect During a Stress Test
A cardiac stress test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and provides valuable insight into how well your heart works under exertion. Detecting problems helps to protect your current and future heart health.
Varicose Veins vs. Spider Veins: What’s the Difference?
Varicose veins and spider veins are common conditions that develop when blood flow is disrupted, causing veins to become enlarged or visible through the skin. While spider veins are typically small and painless, varicose veins can cause pain, swelling, and circulation issues if left untreated.
Advanced Heart and Vascular Associates specializes in comprehensive vein care for patients in and around Hudson and Brooksville, Florida. Nader Chadda, MD, FACC, FSCAI, provides minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins and spider veins. including ClosureFast™ and VenaSeal™. Whether you’re seeking treatment for cosmetic concerns or medical symptoms, our team will work with you in implementing an effective solution.
Varicose veins vs. spider veins
Both varicose and spider veins develop when vein valves weaken, allowing blood to pool rather than flow efficiently back to the heart. However, they differ in size, symptoms, and severity.
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are large, swollen, and twisted veins that most often appear on the legs. They develop when blood collects in weakened veins, causing them to bulge outward and take on a rope-like appearance. While some people experience only mild discomfort, others deal with achy, swollen legs that feel heavy, especially after a long day on their feet.
Key characteristics of varicose veins:
- Bulging, rope-like appearance
- Bluish or purplish in color
- Commonly found on the legs and feet
- Can cause aching, throbbing, or swelling
- May lead to complications if left untreated
Varicose veins aren’t just a cosmetic concern; they can also be a sign of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition that impacts circulation and increases the risk of further complications.
Spider veins: small but noticeable
Spider veins are thin, thread-like veins that appear just beneath the surface of the skin. Unlike varicose veins, they don’t bulge or cause significant discomfort. These veins typically develop due to genetics, sun exposure, pregnancy, or prolonged standing, and they tend to appear on the legs or face.
Key characteristics of spider veins:
- Red, blue, or purple in color
- Spread in a web-like or branching pattern
- Typically painless, but may cause mild itching or burning
- Found on the legs, face, or other areas of the body
While spider veins don’t usually indicate a serious medical condition, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate minor discomfort.
Effective treatment options for vein conditions
The team at Advanced Heart and Vascular Associates offers state-of-the-art treatments to eliminate varicose and spider veins without the need for invasive surgery.
ClosureFast™
ClosureFast™ uses radiofrequency energy to seal off diseased veins. The body then reroutes blood to healthier veins. This treatment reduces pain, swelling, and discomfort while restoring proper circulation. Patients experience minimal downtime and can return to normal activities quickly.
VenaSeal™
VenaSeal™ is a medical adhesive that closes diseased veins without the need for heat-based treatments. This technique is ideal for patients who want a gentle, highly effective option with little recovery time.
Sclerotherapy: a leading option for spider veins
For smaller spider veins, sclerotherapy is often an excellent solution. This involves using a medical solution that causes problem veins to collapse and fade gradually.
Find the right treatment for your veins
If varicose or spider veins are affecting your confidence or quality of life, you don’t have to wait for them to worsen. Advanced Heart and Vascular Associates provides advanced, minimally invasive treatments to help you achieve healthier legs that look better too!
If you’re ready to take the next step, call or message us today to schedule a consultation at either of our locations. Let’s find the right treatment plan to restore your circulation, and your confidence, together!
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