A Funny Thing Happened . .
- Posted on: May 30 2017
There is something very interesting that occurs when a condition or concerns are prevalent: the internet becomes overloaded with information about it! Tips for prevention, details on potential cures, and theories related to risks. As vein specialists with decades of clinical experience, we quite frankly hate to see patients led astray. Here, we want to dispel some of the common myths about varicose veins.
Myths about Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are a cosmetic problem. Yes, they are; and they are more than that. Most varicose veins eventually become symptomatic, causing a sensation of heaviness, or burning, aching, and throbbing.
You know you have varicose veins because you can see them. Again, this is a yes and no situation. Yes, some people see their varicose veins before they become symptomatic; but this doesn’t always happen. Some patients develop that ache, burn, fatigue, or nighttime restlessness that coincides with venous insufficiency before any visible signs occur. Whether you see them or not, varicose veins should be treated when they become symptomatic.
Varicose veins are an age-related disease. Veins specialists have reported treating patients as young as their early teens. Age may exacerbate venous insufficiency, but the primary cause is genetics.
Varicose veins are a women’s health issue. This is a myth that is easy to believe because the majority of patients are, in fact, women. However, it has been estimated that up to 15% of men are affected by this condition, as well. Sometimes varicose veins stem from the family lineage, and sometimes they develop after an injury. Whatever they cause, they can be treated.
Varicose veins are caused by running. Exercise is beneficial for circulation. Frequent movement neither causes varicose veins nor can it prevent them from forming. If you love running and you already have one or more problematic veins, wear compression stockings to minimize symptoms, and get your veins treated if they create discomfort that keeps you from exercise.
Varicose veins are caused by sitting or standing too long. Evidence neither confirms nor contradicts this myth, so it may be worth listening to. Movement is what helps the blood move from the lower extremities to the heart, so get up and walk around every hour. If your job requires you to stand, implement times or strategies that get you off of your feet every hour.
Schedule a Consultation
Myths offer nothing to the person struggling to find out what to do about varicose veins. If you want clear facts, we are happy to speak with you. Contact one of our conveniently located offices to schedule a consultation.
Posted in: Vein Treatments