This on-line brochure will provide you with useful information about the evaluation and treatment of varicose and spider veins, with special attention given to recent advancements in these areas. While arteries bring blood from the heart to the extremities, veins, by virtue of one-way valves, channel blood back to the heart. If these valves don't function well, the blood doesn't flow efficiently. The veins then become enlarged because they are congested with blood. These enlarged veins are commonly called spider veins or varicose veins.
Spider veins are small red, blue or purple veins on the surface of the skin.
Varicose veins are larger distended veins that are located somewhat deeper than spider veins. Pain in the legs is frequently related to these abnormal leg veins. Symptoms, often made worse by prolonged standing, include feelings of fatigue, heaviness, aching, burning, throbbing, itching, cramping, and restlessness of the legs. Leg swelling can occur. Severe varicose veins can compromise the nutrition of the skin and lead to eczema, inflammation or even ulceration of the lower leg.