It’s become fairly common knowledge that smoking, poor diet, and inactivity can lead to the development of varicose veins. However, what most people don’t know is that alcohol use can also have major effects on existing varicose veins as well.

No, varicose veins are not just a problem for women. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that men are just as likely to suffer from varicose veins as women. Fortunately, varicose veins are easily treated, regardless of your gender.

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.

Varicose veins become more common as we age. The reason for this is that the one-way valves in our veins that keep blood from flowing backward get weaker as we get older, allowing for the blood to flow backwards.

Sclerotherapy is a common spider vein treatment that is also sometimes used in the treatment of varicose veins. It is the most popular procedure for spider veins and patients experience great results with one or more procedures.

More than 80 million Americans suffer from venous disease, a medical condition that can lead to further health problems if ignored. Varicose and spider veins are often considered medical issues that only older adults develop. But did you know that young adults are also at risk for vein disease?

When you think of vein disease, you most likely think of large, bulging blue or purple veins popping out of your leg. While the cosmetic appearance of vein problems tend to steal the spotlight, vein disease goes deeper than cosmetic concerns.

By now, you’ve likely heard that sitting all day is not healthy. With medical professionals now calling sitting “the new smoking”, the risks of sitting are well documented. But are standing desks good or bad for varicose veins? The answer may not be as simple as you think.

In the U.S. alone, 25% of all adults, and 50% of people age 50 and older, have varicose veins. 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.

EVLT stands for Endovenous Laser Therapy. It is an ultrasound-guided technique used for treating varicose veins using laser energy. During an EVLT procedure a tiny (less than 1mm) laser fiber is inserted into the diseased vein followed by an application of laser energy to heat and close the malfunctioning veins.