varicose vein valve diagramMyth #1: Varicose Veins are Caused by Pregnancy.

Just like in Myth #1, pregnancy can exacerbate varicose veins but it is not a cause. In most cases, these veins than do become visible during pregnancy fade after delivery.

Myth #2: If Mom has Varicose Veins, You will too.

While there is a genetic link in vein disease, just because your grandparents or parents developed bad veins doesn’t guarantee that you will. As it turns out, only about one in two people with them have a family history of varicose veins.

Myth #3: Compression Stockings aren’t Necessary if you’re getting Vein Treatment.

Compression stockings are the first and final line of defense when treating swollen veins. Insurance companies want you to wear compression stockings for several months to see if they can solve the problem before they are willing to pay for any more advanced treatment methods. After treatment, you will be required to wear stockings for up to two months.

Myth #4: Massages Cure Varicosities.

Varicose veins can be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, cramping, throbbing, soreness, or aching in the legs. Massaging will not make veins go away but they can help alleviate these symptoms.

If you want to get rid of diseased veins for good, there are effective treatments out there. Many people find relief in laser/light therapy and/or sclerotherapy. Both are outpatient procedures with little to no downtime. 

Myth #5: Tattoos Cause Damaged Veins.

There is absolutely no connection between the two.

Myth #6: You Should Wait Until You’re Done having Children Before Treating Veins.

This advice is counterproductive. By treating veins early, you can prevent them from becoming more severe and harder to treat later.

Myth #7: They Aren’t Harmful 

 Varicose veins are caused by a malfunction of the circulatory system’s valves.

Blockages in your vascular valves are normally not dangerous when they’re modest, but they can be fatal over time, especially when they’re paired with a blood clot.

If they are disregarded for an extended period of time, they might cause problems such as:

• Bleeding

• Swelling and bruising

• Pooling of blood

 Myth #8: Surgery isn’t the Only Treatment Option 

 It’s a fabrication. Many treatments are dependent on the edition you’re using.

Varicose veins can be treated at home with compression socks and stockings, or in a hospital environment.

Sclerotherapy is one of the medicinal procedures. This method has been used to treat varicose veins for over 80 years and has proven to be highly effective. Sclerotherapy is a procedure that includes injecting a solution into the diseased veins with a syringe, causing them to close and blood to reroute through healthy veins.

Myth #9: They Are Just a Cosmetic Problem 

 Many people believe that spider veins are merely a cosmetic issue because they are usually painless and are solely treated for cosmetic reasons. However, this is not always the case.

It can also have an impact on your life in other ways, such as:

• Discomfort

• Increased risk of blood clots due to swollen skin

• When an injury happens, there is a lot of blood loss.

• Skin color changes

• All of these factors show that it’s not only a cosmetic issue, so don’t be embarrassed if you’re seeking medical help.

When to look for a doctor for varicose veins?

It is recommended to seek medical attention for varicose veins when you experience any of the following situations:

  1. Pain or discomfort

If your varicose veins are causing persistent pain, throbbing, aching, or discomfort that affects your daily activities or quality of life, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Severe pain, swelling, or tenderness in the legs could indicate a more serious condition that requires medical evaluation.

  1. Skin changes

If you notice skin discoloration, redness, or inflammation around the varicose veins, it may be a sign of a more advanced stage of venous disease. Skin ulcers or sores that do not heal should also be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

  1. Bleeding

If your varicose veins have ruptured and are bleeding profusely, seek immediate medical attention. Apply pressure to the bleeding site and elevate the affected leg while waiting for medical assistance.

  1. Progressive worsening of symptoms

If your varicose veins are progressively worsening over time, with increasing pain, swelling, or appearance of new varicose veins, it is advisable to consult a doctor. This could indicate a need for intervention or treatment to prevent further complications.

  1. Lifestyle limitations

If your varicose veins are causing limitations in your daily activities, such as difficulty walking, standing, or exercising, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A doctor can assess the severity of your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.

  1. Concern about cosmetic appearance

If you are bothered by the visible appearance of your varicose veins and it affects your self-confidence or body image, it is reasonable to consult a doctor. While cosmetic concerns alone may not necessitate medical intervention, a healthcare professional can provide guidance on available treatment options and help you make an informed decision based on your goals and expectations.

Call the Advanced Vein Center Today 724-987-3220 

After a thorough Doppler Ultrasouns exam, our Vein Doctor will create a comprehensive plan, just for you.

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