As vaccines for Covid-19 become more readily available, an increasing number of people are beginning to think about non-urgent medical procedures that they may have put off for the past year. At Vein & Vascular, many patients are calling to see whether they should meet with our vein physicians in Vineland, Voorhees, Sewell and Lumberton, New Jersey. Here are our thoughts on visiting a vein doctor once you’ve had a Covid-19 vaccine.
Difference Between Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
We like to make sure that patients understand the difference between varicose veins and spider veins when making an appointment. The two conditions are similar but distinct, and they present different medical considerations and require different types of treatment.
Varicose veins are large, swollen blood vessels that twist around. They’re most often found in the legs, where they can be seen through the skin. These veins are associated with aching, cramping and pain in the legs, and they may also be associated with throbbing, heaviness in the legs, or even tiredness. Swelling, large sores and a darkening of the skin are common.
Spider veins are also swollen veins that twist and turn, but they’re much smaller. These may be found on the legs, face or chest, and they’re superficial in all cases. Superficial means that spider veins are merely aesthetic — they don’t cause pain or the other symptoms of varicose veins.
Are Varicose Veins Covered by Insurance?
Patients also usually want to know whether treatment is covered by health insurance. Treatment for varicose veins is commonly covered by insurance, because this is a condition that causes multiple medical issues. The consequences of untreated varicose veins can extend beyond merely unsightly legs.
Are Spider Veins Covered by Insurance?
Because spider veins are merely aesthetic and cause no serious medical symptoms, insurance typically doesn’t cover spider vein treatments. Treatment for these is less involved than treatment for deeper varicose vines, however, and spider veins often are quite affordable to take care of.
Should You See a Vein Doctor Now That You’re Vaccinate?
Understandably, many people delayed non-urgent medical treatments during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Now that people are becoming vaccinated, though, it’s becoming safer to have these treatments done.
If you’ve had your Covid vaccine, now could be a good time to see a vein doctor. You’ll have to make a personal decision, but centers are cleaned frequently and you should be well-protected against the disease.
Courteous Precautions to Take During Covid When Scheduling an Appointment
Even though you’re vaccinated and our facilities are thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis, we at Vein & Vascular still request that you respect a couple of courteous precautions when you come for an appointment. Please wear a mask, and use the hand sanitizer that’s readily available. This will further help reduce any risk of transmission, and it helps provide everyone present with greater reassurance.
Contact Us at Vein & Vascular
To schedule a consult for varicose or spider vein treatment, contact us today. We’d be happy to answer any questions about vein procedures or Covid-19 protocols, and one of our staff members will gladly find a convenient time for you to come in.