When people think about vein problems, they often picture bulging varicose veins. But many vein conditions first appear as other changes on the skin that can be clues to underlying vein disease.

Question: What is the difference between spider veins, reticular veins and varicose veins? Answered by vascular surgeon Jonathan Thompson, MD.

Varicose veins are abnormal branches from larger, more typical veins. Even if you don’t have one yourself, chances are you’ve seen such a swollen blue and purple bulge in someone else.

Anyone dealing with varicose veins knows the pain and how uncomfortable they can be. In the summertime, flare-ups and symptoms can worsen. Jonathan Thompson, MD, vascular surgeon, explains why this can happen and how individuals can find relief.

Whether it’s a mole you’ve had since childhood, or an age spot that recently appeared, it’s important to keep an eye on skin spots and new growths.