Varicose Veins: 5 Myths You Shouldn't Believe

In the U.S. alone, 25% of all adults, and 50% of people age 50 and older, have varicose veins. They are usually found in the legs, but can appear elsewhere on the body. Also known as venous insufficiency, varicose veins occur when damaged veins have trouble sending blood from the legs to the heart.

Because so many people are concerned about veins like this, it’s inevitable that some myths are bound to circulate the internet surrounding this vein disease. Here are the 5 most common myths about varicose veins:

Myth #1: Varicose veins are caused by crossing your legs while sitting.

Truth: This is likely the most popular varicose vein myth. However, it has no scientific evidence. Varicose veins are caused by heredity, pregnancy, weight gain and lifestyle. People whose jobs require them to stand for a long time are at a higher risk for developing varicose veins.

Myth #2: Varicose veins are just a cosmetic problem.

Truth: There is a common misconception that varicose veins are just a cosmetic problem and are harmless. While they can be just a cosmetic issue in some circumstances, they can also cause throbbing, aching, and itching. Leaving your veins untreated can lead to bigger problems, including leg ulcers and blood clots.

Myth #3: Varicose veins are always visible.

Truth: Varicose veins often appear as ropey, swollen and bulging veins, bluish or purplish in color. However, they can sometimes be deep without an appearance but still cause symptoms like; swelling, tired and achy legs, leg cramps, itchy rashes, and skin changes.

Myth #4: Spider veins and varicose veins are the same thing.

Truth: Spider veins and varicose veins are not the same thing. Spider veins are smaller, dilated veins in the surface of the skin. They often form a web like pattern and are red or purple in color. Varicose veins are in the fat between muscle and skin, typically in your legs. Spider veins can oftentimes go untreated, while varicose veins will usually need treatment at some point.

Myth #5: Varicose veins require expensive, painful surgery.

Truth: That may have been true once but it isn’t any longer. We are here to tell you that the treatment of varicose veins is neither overly expensive, nor painful. At Elmore Medical, we have many treatment options available. Many of our vein treatments are covered by insurance, due to the fact that they are not purely cosmetic. Recovery is typically quick, and patients experience little, to no, downtime.

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, schedule a FREE vein screening today.

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.