5 Common Vein Disease Myths
In the U.S. alone, as many as 30 million people are currently suffering from vein disease. Because so many people are concerned about varicose and spider veins, it’s inevitable that some myths are bound to circulate the internet surrounding vein disease. Let’s dispel five of the most common myths about vein disease.
Myth 1 - Vein treatments are just a cosmetic fix.
One of the most harmful misconceptions about vein disease is that is only a cosmetic concern. Without treatment, those suffering from varicose veins are likely to experience continuing pain, fatigue, and swelling of the legs and ankles. In more serious cases, patients can also develop Edema (an excess of watery fluid collecting in the leg tissue), Deep or Superficial Vein Thrombosis (blood clots in the leg), and even venous ulcers.
Myth 2 - Insurance does not cover vein treatment.
Because varicose veins and chronic venous disease can lead to more serious and expensive medical conditions, most insurance plans will cover treatment.
Recent studies have shown the importance of treating chronic venous hypertension and varicose veins to prevent the symptoms of disease associated with it. The earlier vein disease is treated, the more successful and cost effective it is. Insurance coverage is determined by a diagnostic evaluation performed by a qualified phlebologist using ultrasonography.
Myth 3 - Varicose and spider veins always reoccur.
This myth is a product of the days when vein stripping was the most widely used treatment option. This treatment method, while done with the best of intentions, actually caused recurrence of varicose veins. Vein stripping is now considered an outdated treatment option for treatment of chronic venous disease.
Incredible progress has been made in the understanding and treatment of different forms of vein disease and has lowered recurrence rates to below 5%. Today’s state-of-the-art procedures are more effective, less painful, and require little to no downtime.
Myth 4 - Men don’t get varicose veins.
Women are not the only ones who suffer from vein disease and varicose veins. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that men are just as likely to suffer from varicose veins as women.
It is reported that 42% of men will suffer with vein disease by the time they reach their 60s. Though men are less likely to seek varicose vein treatment, they are at risk for more severe venous diseases if they ignore the symptoms.
Myth 5 - Vein disease only occurs in older adults.
While advanced age is often associated with varicose veins, aging is only one factor that contributes toward venous disease development. There are many causes of venous disease that can cause young adults to develop vein problems as early as their 20’s.
The primary cause of vein disease, accounting for about 80% of cases, is heredity. If a family member had varicose or spider veins, you are more likely to develop them as well, and it is not unusual to find varicose veins in young adults who have a hereditary disposition to vein disease.
The best advice is to be guided by symptoms, not by age.
Are you concerned that you may have varicose veins, or think you may be at risk for developing them? Rather than spend hours getting lost in myths on the internet, contact Elmore Medical today to schedule a consultation.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else.