From an unsightly appearance that affects your self-esteem to discomfort, fatigue, and even dangerous blood clots, varicose veins are a definite cause for concern. Unfortunately, most people who have these veins do not place much care of emphasis on understanding them. By debunking these common myths, you will have a better understanding of varicose veins.
Varicose Veins are Rare
One of the most common myths people believe about varicose veins is that they are rare. While shocking to learn, an estimated 35 percent of people in the United States have varicose veins.
Not only are they common, but they can also affect a wide variety of people. There are no specific ages or genders of people that develop varicose veins. In reality, these veins can be issues for both men and women of any age.
Varicose Veins are Cosmetic Issues Only
Another myth that you may believe is that these unappealing veins affect your appearance only. While they can have a negative effect on how your skin looks, varicose veins are much more than a cosmetic issue.
Physical symptoms associated with varicose veins may include fatigue and discomfort in the area where the veins are located. Heaviness, throbbing, and swelling are also common. You may also experience itchiness and dryness of the skin around the varicose veins, which can lead to discomfort and infections is you are constantly scratching.
If you have varicose veins, you will have a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, which is a dangerous blood clot that can be life-threatening.
Varicose Veins are Permanent
Believing varicose veins are permanent is actually a complicated matter. While you cannot remove them from your legs, the varicose veins can become less visible, less uncomfortable, and less dangerous.
Today, there are many treatment options for people who have varicose veins.
Wearing compression stockings is usually the first solution recommended by doctors if you have varicose veins on the legs. These stockings compress the lights, reducing the amount of blood that pools down in the leg. This reduces swelling and discomfort, which can make living with varicose veins a bit easier. In some cases, the compression stockings will make the veins less visible.
Ablation vein therapy will also be recommended if the compression stockings are not helpful. Ablation therapy may involve the use of lasers, radiofrequency, or mechanical injection to decrease the size and prominence of the varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy will be recommended if your veins are more involved and not as straight and easy to treat. This therapy a chemical injection that causes the vein to spasm and clot.
