Varicose veins are extremely common, affecting about one in four adults in the United States. They are usually found in the legs, but can appear anywhere on the body. There are a lot of myths surrounding this condition. To ensure you have the correct facts we listed the 5 most common myths surrounding varicose veins.
Myth #1: Varicose veins only appear in women.
Truth: Varicose veins appear in both men and women. Although they are more common in women, around 10-15% of men are affected. According to a new study the percentage of men who are affected tends to vary because men are less likely to seek out treatment.
Myth #2: Varicose veins are a sign of old age.
Truth: Varicose veins have less to do with age and more to do with your genetics. Varicose veins can develop as early as 10 years old. Symptoms might not appear until later, as the condition worsens. If one parent has varicose veins then there is a 40% chance that you will also develop them. If both of your parents have them, it’s almost guaranteed that you will have varicose veins.
Myth #3: Treatment is expensive and not covered by insurance.
Truth: This myth stems from the notion that varicose veins are a cosmetic issue. The majority of people with varicose veins are suffering from an underlying venous condition. When this is the case most insurance providers will cover the procedure to have them removed.
Myth #4: Spider veins are varicose veins.
Truth: Spider veins are NOT varicose veins. Generally, spider veins are a cosmetic issue. They are smaller red and purple dilated veins in the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are large swollen blood vessels in the fat between muscle and skin that twist and turn.
Myth #5: Exercise will make varicose veins worse.
Truth: There is no proof that exercise will make varicose veins worse. In most cases, exercise is the best option to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Studies have found that people suffering from deep venous insufficiency benefit from
activities that engage their calf muscles such as walking. These activities create contractions that force blood up to the center of the body.
If you’re interested in treating varicose veins, contact The Vein Centre, today. 615-269-9007.
