We’re Debunking Common Varicose Vein Myths

Although more than 35% of adult people in the United States suffer from varicose veins, many are still stumped by what they are, what health implications they may have (serious or not?), and how you can get rid of them.

At VeinSolutions we provide treatment for varicose veins every day. You could say that we know them inside and out.

First, it’s important to understand what varicose veins are.

Varicose veins (also known as varicosities) are thick, knotted structures under the skin that are often swollen and painful. They typically occur on the legs and result from tiny malfunctions within the valves controlling blood flow in the veins. As proper flow is hindered, blood pools within the veins and creates the characteristic dark purplish and blue bulging structures.

Varicose vein symptoms might include cramps, swollen ankles and legs, and sometimes itching or burning.

Let’s take a closer look and separate fact from fiction when it comes to varicose veins.

Here are six common myths debunked by our vein experts:

1. Varicose veins only affect older people or just women.

Anyone of any age, male or female, can suffer from varicose veins, especially if they have certain risk factors like being overweight, experience frequent prolonged sitting or standing, have a family history of varicose veins, or are pregnant.

2. Varicose veins are just a cosmetic problem.

Varicose veins do have cosmetic consequences, but they can affect your overall health, leading to chronic pain and swelling, potential serious blood clots, or excessive bleeding if you suffer an injury.

3. Varicose veins are untreatable.

In addition to the many effective treatment options for varicose veins, there are other things you can do to help ease symptoms and severity such as elevating feet above your heart several times a day, committing to regular physical activity in order to boost circulation and improve blood flow, and maintaining a healthy weight.

4. Surgery is the only option for varicose vein removal.

Surgery is one option for varicose vein removal, but 99% of all venous treatment at VeinSolutions happens in our office and takes about 15-20 minutes. Patients walk in and out the same day. Sclerotherapy and endovenous ablation are both conveniently performed in our clinics with minimal pain and recovery time afterwards.

5. Women should wait until they are done having children to seek varicose vein

treatment.

Because pregnancy can put added strain on a woman’s body, especially her legs, our vein specialists will recommend not seeking treatment while you are pregnant. If varicose veins are causing issues, VeinSolutions recommends stopping by between pregnancies and our specialists can help create a healthy and effective treatment plan to enhance the look and feel of your legs.

6. Insurance never covers varicose vein treatment.

VeinSolutions participates in most major healthcare plans including Medicare. We will always work with you to ensure you receive as much coverage as possible.

Please visit us here to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists. Or in Austin, please call 512.452.VEIN (8346), or for Georgetown, contact us at 512-501-4287.

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