Varicose veins are those blue, bulging, twisted veins that commonly appear on the legs. When the series of valves that assist in moving blood throughout the body become weak, blood can travel down the leg in the wrong direction and pool within the veins, resulting in these blue or purple bulges.
When this happens, the body tries to widen the veins to relieve the pressure created by the blood pooling, but this causes the veins to bulge and thicken, giving them a distinctive twisted appearance.
We’ve dispelled eight common varicose vein myths to help you learn the facts about these enlarged veins, including who is most susceptible to developing them and why, potential health issues they may bring on, and available treatments.
Myth #1: Varicose veins are only a cosmetic issue
Many people believe varicose veins are solely a cosmetic issue and will seek to remove these unsightly lines to improve the appearance of their legs. However, aside from the visible, bulging veins, many people experience painful swelling, cramping, tingling, or restless legs due to this condition. It’s also not uncommon to have skin discoloration, skin thickening, and aching and tired legs with minimal exercise or standing. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to even more severe issues like blood clots, infections, poor wound healing, skin ulcers, and amputation.
Myth #2: Varicose veins are an inevitable symptom of aging
Varicose veins occur more often in people between 40 and 80 years old. However, only some within this age develop varicose veins. Some people get varicose veins in their early 20s and 30s and even their late teens. Varicose veins can appear at any age due to various factors, from changes in hormone levels to genetics and sedentary lives to unhealthy habits.
Myth #3: Only women get varicose veins
Varicose veins aren’t exclusively a female issue. Although women have a higher chance of developing varicose veins due to hormonal fluctuations and weight gain from pregnancy, many men also have varicose veins.
Myth #4: Crossing your legs causes varicose veins
Crossing your legs doesn’t cause varicose veins. The pressure exerted on your veins from crossing your legs is minimal and can’t weaken your valves. However, staying in the same position for long periods impedes blood flow. Try alternating between sitting and standing to improve blood flow in your legs.
Myth #5: Surgery is the only treatment option for varicose veins
Technological advancements allow varicose veins to be treated with several minimally invasive procedures such as sclerotherapy, ablation, and microphlebectomy. This means you can treat your varicose veins with minimal discomfort and no need to undergo invasive vein-stripping surgery.
Myth #6: Varicose vein treatment is painful
Recent varicose vein treatment procedures like sclerotherapy, radiofrequency, or laser ablation surgeries are designed to be quick and convenient and produce remarkable results with minimal downtime and discomfort.
Myth #7: Varicose veins can’t be prevented
Varicose veins are often hereditary and develop regardless of your lifestyle. However, there are necessary precautions you can take to lower your risk of developing varicose veins, including avoiding standing or sitting for long periods, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking.
Myth #8: Insurance doesn’t cover varicose vein treatment
Since pain and swelling are associated with vein disease, most insurance companies will cover treatment. However, you should contact your insurance provider to determine your plan and coverage.
Arrange for an appointment at his vein clinic today. Home of leading Gold Coast vascular surgeon, Dr. Venu Bhamidi