In this blog, we will explore the most common myths about varicose veins and provide the accurate information you need to understand better and deal with this unsightly, often painful, and highly treatable form of vein disease.
Varicose veins are a common yet widely misunderstood condition that affects an estimated 20 percent of all Americans, according to the National Institutes of Health. Despite the wealth of knowledge about venous insufficiency (the root cause of varicose veins), myths and misconceptions surrounding the disorder still prevail.
The following article seeks to dispel these widespread, often dangerous, misconceptions by debunking some of the most common myths and providing accurate healthcare information.
One of the most commonplace myths about varicose veins is that painful, twisted, swollen, or unsightly veins only affect elderly individuals. This is simply not true. While advanced age can contribute, varicose veins can occur in individuals of all ages, including young adults and even children.
Why?
Because varicose veins are a symptom of chronic venous insufficiency, a dysfunction of the valves in the leg veins that allows blood to flow backward, causing blood to pool in your legs. Symptoms include swelling, cramping, itchy, and varicose veins. While varicose veins affect 22 million women and 11 million men between the ages of 40 to 80 years, according to the AHA Journal "Circulation," those aged 40 and younger are susceptible to venous disease because the number one risk factor is heredity, not age.
Other risk factors that impact the young and the formerly young alike include a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, pregnancy, and standing or sitting for long periods of time.
While varicose veins can be unsightly and negatively impact an individual's self-esteem, bulging varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issue. Varicose veins can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, swelling, aching, and the feeling of leg heaviness. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to more serious vein problems, such as DVT blood clots and skin ulcers.
Many insurance carriers, including Medicare and Medicaid, will cover varicose vein treatment when deemed medically necessary. Speak to your Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein physician about submitting your claim to cover your vein treatment. CVR works with the largest insurance providers in the US to get you the coverage you need to treat varicose veins.
This myth is particularly dangerous because it may stop people from seeking the vein treatment they need to live free of leg pain and have legs they can proudly show off. Treatment options for problem veins at CVR are minimally invasive, office-based, and require nothing more than local anesthetics. Patients can return to their regular routine immediately, with few restrictions.
Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy: A foam medicine called a "sclerosant" is injected into the problem vein, resulting in vein closure. The body safely reabsorbs the closed vein. Blood is then rerouted through healthier veins.
Laser Ablation: A thin fiber is gently inserted into the affected vein, through which heat is used to close the vein.
Radiofrequency Ablation: A thin catheter is gently inserted into the vein, emitting heat to affected veins via radio waves, causing the diseased vein to close.
VenaSeal: A safe and effective proprietary medical adhesive that closes off varicose veins and allows blood to flow through healthier veins.
While it's true that female hormones and pregnancy make women more likely to develop varicose veins than men, men can also develop this condition. According to UCLA Health, about 25 percent of women and 15 percent of men will experience varicose veins during their lifetime. Genetics, age, and lifestyle contribute to an individual's risk of developing varicose veins, regardless of gender.
Wrong! Regular low-impact exercise improves leg circulation and can reduce varicose vein symptoms. Activities such as walking, cycling, yoga, and swimming can all be beneficial for hoping to reduce their risk of developing varicose veins.
By debunking these common myths, we hope you will take the steps needed to manage your vein condition, thus improving your overall health and well-being.
Center for Vein Restoration physicians are board-certified experts who treat varicose veins using cutting-edge methods in a comfortable outpatient environment. Helping more than 200,000 people annually live a more active, comfortable life has consistently earned CVR vein physicians a 98 percent satisfaction score over the past ten years.
We can help you too.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a friendly Center for Vein Restoration Patient Services Representative or to schedule an appointment. Nosotros hablamos español.
Or, visit us HERE to book an appointment online.
Varicose veins are not a new disorder and have been an issue for people throughout history. However, the perception of varicose veins has drastically changed over time due to shifting cultural and societal attitudes and medical understanding. Learn more about the wildly different viewpoints regarding venous disease though the ages.
