Deep Vein Thrombosis Vs. Varicose Veins: What Is the Difference?

Two common vein diseases affecting Americans are deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and varicose veins (VV). Both affect the veins in your legs but differ in terms of causes, symptoms, and treatments. Deep vein thrombosis is a more serious vein disease that requires proper management.

This article discusses deep vein thrombosis vs. varicose veins, symptoms of vein disease, and their treatments.

What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the leg. This can happen if your blood flow slows or your body forms a clot to prevent bleeding. When a clot forms in a vein deep within your body, it can block blood flow, leading to pain and swelling.

DVT is serious because clots can break loose, travel through the bloodstream, and lodge in the lungs. The result is pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition. Up to 900,000 Americans suffer from venous thromboembolisms each year, which includes deep vein thrombosis.

Known risk factors for deep vein thrombosis include:

  • Prolonged immobility (e.g., long flights and bed rest)
  • Recent surgery
  • Certain medications
  • Genetic factors

Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis:

Complications from deep vein thrombosis can be severe. Besides pulmonary embolism, DVT can lead to post-thrombotic syndrome, which causes long-term pain and swelling in the affected leg. If you experience symptoms of DVT, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately to prevent these complications.

Understanding Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins visible beneath the skin, usually in the legs. They form as a result of the valves in the veins weakening and becoming damaged. The blood pools in the veins and causes them to bulge. The appearance of varicose veins is not just physically concerning; they can also lead to discomfort and pain.

Factors such as age, pregnancy, obesity, and standing for long periods can contribute to the development of varicose veins. Compared to deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins are more visible. Common symptoms of varicose veins include:

  • Swollen and twisted blue, red, or purple veins
  • Aching legs
  • Swelling
  • Itchiness

While varicose veins are generally less severe and not life-threatening, they can lead to complications like skin ulcers or bleeding. Treatment for varicose veins is still important to address symptoms and prevent complications.

Diagnosing and Treating Deep Vein Thrombosis

Diagnosing deep vein thrombosis typically involves a physical exam and other tests. The vein doctor may recommend a duplex ultrasound or venography (an X-ray of the veins) to identify blood clots. The main objectives of DVT treatment are to:

  • Prevent the clot from enlarging and affecting other veins.
  • Reduce the risk of the clot breaking loose and causing a pulmonary embolism.
  • Minimize the likelihood of future blood clots.

Treatment options for deep vein thrombosis include:

  • Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): These prevent clots from growing and stop new ones from forming, with treatment lasting from months to indefinitely.
  • Compression Stockings: Worn daily, these improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise and leg elevation can enhance circulation.
  • Surgical Options: An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter may be placed to capture clots and prevent them from traveling to the lungs.

Diagnosing and Treating Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are usually diagnosed through a physical examination, often supported by ultrasound to assess blood flow and venous insufficiency. Treatment for varicose veins focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing the worsening of the condition. Vein doctors usually recommend one or more of the following:

  • Compression Stockings: These special stockings help improve blood circulation in the legs. These specially designed stockings apply pressure to the legs, helping to prevent blood from pooling in the veins.
  • Sclerotherapy: This type of treatment involves the injection of a solution into the problem vein. The solution causes the vein to close off, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation: In this procedure, radiofrequency waves are used to heat and destroy the targeted vein, leading to its closure.
  • Endovenous Laser Treatment: This method uses laser light to target and destroy the problem vein, resulting in closure.

The vein doctor will also consider any underlying factors to help alleviate symptoms and prevent further issues.

Understanding the key differences between deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins is necessary for the right treatment. If you have vein disease symptoms, seek professional advice from professional vein doctors. Experts can guide you on the proper treatment for vein disease in your legs.

Best Vein Doctors Near Me in Boca Raton, FL

The Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute has a dedicated vein clinic for the treatment of vein disease in the legs.

Our vein doctors are board-certified and fellowship-trained interventional cardiologists. We are dedicated to the treatment of venous diseases using the most advanced, minimally invasive procedures.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (561) 235-5621 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you.