What is the difference between spider veins and varicose veins?

Spider veins are those small superficial veins that present at ankles, knees, and other pressure points on the legs. Varicose veins are prominent, swollen, veins that are visible on the surface of the skin. Varicose veins can sometimes be painful and bleed.

What are some of the symptoms of vein disease?

Aching, leg fatigue, swelling, itching, and skin discoloration.

Are spider veins only a cosmetic concern or a real health concern?

Treatment of spider veins is cosmetic however they can be a sign of underlying deeper vein disease.

How can I keep my lower veins healthy? Prevent spider veins?

Maintaining a healthy weight, exercise, compression stockings, and leg elevation are all helpful measures for excellent leg health. However, some medical conditions and genetics can play a role in developing vein disease.

What treatments are available?

Treatments have advanced in technology and most veins are able to be treated from inside the veins. No longer are vein strippings the treatment of choice. Malfunctioning veins can be treated by heat, foam, or glue to close down the vein.

What is recovery like after treatment?

In-office procedures have very little downtime and most people can return to work within one to two days.

What kind of physician should I see to treat vein disease?

One that specializes in vascular diseases.

Will insurance cover my vein issues?

Each insurance company has different criteria for vein treatment. Work with your vein specialist to decide which procedure your insurance company will cover.

For more information or to make an appointment, visit Vipphysiciansmemphis.com or call 901.747.1007.

Dr. Jacqueline Majors is a vascular surgeon with over ten years of experience. She graduated with honors in 2012 from the University of Tennessee Health and Science Center College of Medicine. Her specialties include treating aortic aneurysm, carotid stenosis, varicose veins, and peripheral artery disease. A wife and sports mom of three, she enjoys playing golf, fishing, or hanging with her two Great Danes in her free time. Dr. Majors recently joined Vascular Interventional Physicians located at 6286 Briarcrest Ave., Suite 300, Memphis, TN 38120.