If you suffer from enlarged, twisted veins, you’re not alone. Approximately three million Americans are affected by varicose veins each year. This medical condition occurs when valves in your veins no longer work properly, causing backflow of blood and increased pressures. The veins swell as a result of the blood backup, showing more prominently through your skin. Many patients are pain-free, but varicose veins can cause aching and discomfort in the legs.
The appearance of your varicose veins might make you feel self-conscious, causing you to withdraw from going to the beach while on vacation or simply wearing shorts. The cause behind this condition is unclear, but there are many supposed facts about varicose veins that are simply untrue. We debunk some of the most common myths.
1. Varicose Veins Are Always Visible
Varicose veins develop below the skin’s surface. They can become pronounced due to the pressure of blood in the legs, but the degree of visibility varies. As pressures build, the elasticity of the vein walls become more stretched or dilated, which makes the veins appear more prominent or visible. Their appearance also depends on vein depth.
2. Varicose Veins Are Only an Aesthetic Problem
Those who have never experienced varicose veins may think of them as only a cosmetic issue. However, varicose veins can lead to very serious medical problems. When the valves within your veins fail and pressures build, clots and ulcers can result in the most severe cases. More commonly, varicose veins can cause a wide array of symptoms. Some symptoms include throbbing, aching, restlessness, leg fatigue, pain and heaviness in the legs. These symptoms can interfere with work or enjoying everyday activities.
3. Varicose Veins Appear Due to Aging
Although it is true that varicose veins can worsen as we age, they are not the result of aging – not everyone develops them. Varicose veins can appear as the result of your lifestyle or a family history of varicose veins.
4. Men Can’t Be Affected by Varicose Veins
Men can absolutely experience varicose veins. They are more common in women, but 10 to 15 percent of men suffer from visible varicose veins. Men can feel the same symptoms and encounter the same medical complications as women.
5. Standing Causes Varicose Veins
There is no evidence to prove that standing is a direct cause of varicose veins. However, both prolonged standing and sitting can cause blood to pool. So, if you already have varicose veins or a family history which makes you more susceptible, it is recommended that you avoid doing either for long periods of time.
6. The Surgery to Remove Varicose Veins is Painful
At Vein Centers of Connecticut, we use a method called endovenous laser ablation to repair the root cause of varicose veins and ambulatory phlebectomy to remove varicose veins. The procedures are minimally invasive and virtually pain-free. Today’s technology makes the entire process easier on patients so you can return to work the same day or next.
If you suffer from varicose veins and want to fall in love with your legs again, request a consultation at the Vein Centers of Connecticut and explore your treatment options. We provide minimally invasive vein therapy solutions that will have you back on your feet in no time!