Varicose veins affect millions of people across the globe causing discomfort, and posing cosmetic problems and at times even more serious health problems. They are quite normal in occurrence, however, a lot of people are perplexed with the commonest notions, which buries them confusion on the factors contributing, the cures as well as the ways of preventing this condition. One must know the facts about the varicose veins if one wants to stop or treat this problem. In this piece of writing we will cover some of the most prevalent misconceptions concerning the varicose veins.

Myth 1: Varicose veins are only seen as a problem of aesthetic beauty

Fact: Varicose veins may pose real threat to one’s health.

It is undeniable that most people have apprehension towards the way their varicose veins look. However, varicose veins are not only limited to cosmetic concerns. If they remain untreated, varicose veins can progress to more clinical conditions such as the chronic venous disease, leg ulcers, clot formation in the veins, and even deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These complications are not only painful but is sometimes life threatening. In case of any swelling, tenderness, pain or unusual changes of the skin overlying the affected veins, it’s advisable to consult a physician.

Myth 2: Varicose Veins Appears in Old Age Alone

Fact: Varicose Veins Can Affect People of All Ages

It is correct that the risk for developing varicose veins is greatest in those who are older, and it’s also true that this problem may occur in other people at a younger age. Like in other conditions of inheritance, varicose veins are common in individuals who have predisposed relatives and in the youth they are therefore prone to developing the condition. Other factors, such as pregnancy, obesity, and prolonged standing or sitting may also play a part in the development of varicose veins at an early age. There is a need to take such measures however young you may be.

Myth 3: Crossing of Legs Is a Risk Factor for Varicose Veins.

Fact: Sitting in the Cross-legged posture does not lead to varicose veins.

Crossing one’s legs is one of the many myths that if propagated is that varicose veins will be resultant. In fact, varicose veins do not result from sitting positions and are caused by incompetent or damaged valves in the veins. Blame genetic predisposition, aging, being sedentary for too long and other instances that affect blood circulation which all lead to vein distress. But it is not the act of crossing the legs which makes people develop varicose veins but rather the factors which promote poor blood circulation when seated for a long time.

Myth 4: Only Women Suffer from Varicose Veins

Fact: Varicose Veins Are Risky for Men as Well

Women tend to get more affected by varicose veins, but that doesn’t mean that varicose veins is a condition excluded amongst men. Women do have these symptoms more frequently because of the hormonal changes of pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause. However, it isn’t only women who experience vein troubles. It has also been found that approximately 25% of men will develop varicose veins. Men whose jobs require them to stand or sit for an extended period are more prone to these problems. Similarly, as women do, men also have to look after their vein health and take action if required.

Myth 5: There Is No Reason to Do Exercise Because of Varicose Veins

Fact: Exercise Can Actually Help Prevent Varicose Veins

Some popular knowledge holds that moderate exercises such as running can aggravate varicose veins but this is far from the truth. In fact, any regular exercise, especially leg strengthening and circulation activities, would help in the prevention and management of varicose veins. Good blood circulation and prevention will also be afforded by engaging in walking, swimming, cycling or yoga. Blood circulation also helps to avoid blood being trapped needless in the veins which is one of the major factors contributing to varicose veins. Instead of this, you can engage in those exercises that are non-impact and that don’t burden your legs or are mildly effective like aerobi, in case you already have varicose veins.

Myth 6: The Only Treatment Available for Managing Varicose Veins is Surgery

Fact: Several Treatments for Varicose Veins Do Not Require Surgery

In the past, the most effective mode of treatment of the varicose veins was through surgery. However, present day medicine has a lot of alternatives that do not involve undergoing surgical procedures. There are modern treatments such as sclerotherapy, Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) that perform their functions without making any incisions. Such procedures can include the use of adhesives or heat to close the abnormal veins, or the injection of sclerosing solution in the veins. Patients should expect a quick recovery and will be able to return to their usual daily activities in a few days. It is advisable to work with a vein specialist so that the most appropriate treatment for the condition can be received.

Myth 7: The Use of Compression Stocking can Successfully Remove Varicose Veins

Fact: Wearing Compression Stockings is good for Treatment but does not Remove Varicose Veins

Compression stockings are often advised in the treatment of generalized varicose veins, but as it is apparent, the disease cannot be adequately treated. Graduated compression stockings are elastic garments that exert pressure to the legs and help to enhance circulation thereby reducing symptoms such as swelling and pain. They may make it possible to treat varicose veins instead of extending treatment to eliminating them out of the body. For longer lasting effects, laser ablation such as EVLT or RFA or sclerotherapy treatments, may be recommended. Compression stockings are, however, a very useful treatment for prevention, especially to those whose occupation requires long standing or sitting.

Myth 8: A Woman who is pregnant becomes prone to having Varicose Veins Forever

Fact: Pregnancy may contribute to Varicose Veins but they do not add Stress Permanently after Delivery

Due to a rise in the quantity of blood and a greater pull on the vein walls, the legs are especially prone to the onset of varicose veins during pregnancy. Apart from the physical stresses of pregnancy, blood vessel walls are also loosening due to hormonal fluctuations. In most cases, however, these veins which develop during pregnancy resolve after delivery. In women, some of the veins will not go away altogether, but there are therapies available for the treatment of remaining varicose veins after the woman has given birth.

Conclusion

Many people believe in myths about varicose veins, a health condition which is also common amongst the Americans. Some of these include that it is a woman or an old man’s disease or that surgery is the only means of curing this condition. Until you separate the actual problem from the causes, it will be difficult to deal with the issues related to varicose veins. Learning about the underlying mechanisms and how these abnormal blood vessels can be corrected will guide one in taking proper care of their veins. If you think you have developed varicose veins, you should seek the help of a vascular practitioner as they are well trained and will be able to recommend the most appropriate mode of action for you.