Health

Busting Common Myths about Varicose Veins You Should Ignore

Recently, varicose veins in the United States are becoming more common due to factors such as sedentary lifestyle and pregnancy. Apart from causing embarrassment because of their unwanted appearances, they can lead to pain. However, people with varicose veins Glen Rock can benefit from several treatments. Unfortunately, much misinformation online can guide you in the wrong direction. The internet is particularly more responsible for most information regarding varicose veins. Keep reading this article as we bust common myths about varicose veins you should ignore.

All Varicose Veins Are Visible

Varicose veins occur both in the deep and superficial leg veins. Since superficial veins are near the skin, they are easily noticeable. Alternatively, varicose veins occurring deep in the skin are hard to notice as they are covered with a thick fatty tissue layer. You should notify a specialist when you encounter painful or abnormal warning symptoms in the legs, like leg pain and swelling. Your provider will thoroughly confirm if varicose veins are responsible for the swelling and pain.

Men Cannot Get Varicose Veins

In most cases, women are more susceptible to the condition. Pregnancy or menopause contributes to hormonal changes, which are the main factors behind the popularity of varicose among women. However, men can also experience this condition, as statistics show that around 45% of men develop varicose veins at some point. The reason behind men’s vulnerability is the risk factors like genetics, age, and sedentary lifestyle. Thus, men should also be cautious and seek treatment if they notice abnormal leg pain and swelling.

Crossing the Legs Can Cause Varicose Veins

Crossing the legs and wearing tight pants cannot lead to varicose veins. Usually, external pressure on the veins, such as crossing legs, is little and does not insert sufficient force to destroy the veins. Nevertheless, based on the location and duration of the force, crossing your legs can aggravate the symptoms of varicose veins. Remaining in the same position for an extended period also makes it complex for your blood to flow properly, exacerbating symptoms.

Exercise Worsens Varicose Veins

Besides being important for an individual’s general health, exercise is also good for your veins. Running or walking lets your calf muscles pump more blood to the heart, boosting blood circulation. Nevertheless, if you have received treatment for varicose veins, you should wear compression socks before exercising. Compression socks avert blood from pooling in the legs. Doing these exercises properly helps lower the varicose veins’ negative impact.

Surgery is the Only Treatment for Varicose Veins

Some years back, surgery was the only option for patients with varicose veins. Fortunately, medical advancement has played a vital role in developing more non-surgical treatment options for this condition. Sclerotherapy and radiofrequency ablation are the most effective and popular noninvasive options. However, there are instances where surgery may be more effective than them and thus recommended. You should consult your varicose vein specialist to confirm your eligibility for these noninvasive options.

Regardless of the root of your varicose veins, leaving them untreated can deteriorate your health and cause blood clots and leg ulcers. Never be reluctant to see your varicose vein specialist because of the information you see circulating the internet, as it may be wrong. Your provider can comprehensively determine the risk factors for varicose veins and suggest measures you can incorporate to reduce the risks. If you already have this condition and fear undergoing a knife, your provider can offer noninvasive treatments, including radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy.