3 Myths About Varicose Veins

Blog Post
By BASS Vein Center
3 Myths About Varicose Veins
October 19, 2023

3 Myths About Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are unsightly and uncomfortable. Sometimes, they can even be painful. Varicose veins are often caused by pregnancy, standing or sitting for long periods of time, or obesity. Before we get into the top three myths about varicose veins, let’s have a look at why varicose veins happen.

What Causes Varicose Veins to Occur?

What are varicose veins, exactly? Well, your veins have little valves located in their interior. These veins keep blood from flowing back down the vein before reaching the heart. When these valves deteriorate, weaken, or tear, gravity will cause the blood to flow down through them before it makes the journey upwards toward the heart. When this happens, the blood will get stuck or collect in areas of the vein. This causes the vein to become enlarged and discolored. It can be painful in some cases. Varicose veins occur often in the legs since they are closer to the ground and gravity pulls the blood downward.

3 Common Myths About Varicose Veins and the Truth Behind Them

Myth Number One: Varicose Veins are Merely a Cosmetic Problem

A lot of people think that varicose veins do not pose any threats or problems beyond their unsightly appearance. The truth is, however, that they can be uncomfortable and painful. They can also cause thickening of the skin in affected areas as well as swelling. Varicose veins can cause discoloration of the skin, profuse bleeding when an injury occurs, and an increased risk of blood clots as well. On top of these physical problems, varicose veins cause cosmetic problems as well. People with varicose veins often suffer insecurities and low self-esteem because of the appearance of the varicose veins.

Myth Number Two: Varicose Veins Only Occur in the Elderly

With natural wear and tear, varicose veins are common with the elderly. This, however, does not mean that young people cannot develop them. As stated before, varicose veins can be the result of standing or sitting for long periods of time, pregnancy, and obesity. There are also some other more rare causes of varicose veins.

Myth Number Three: Nothing Can Be Done to Treat Varicose Veins

This myth is the result of the first myth. If varicose veins are merely a cosmetic problem, they are not a priority as far as medical advancement is concerned to develop treatment procedures. This, of course, is absolutely not true. There are a variety of treatment options available. Each of these options has benefits and downfalls, but with several options, you can discuss which option is the best choice for your own situation. 

When Should You Consider Treatment?

If you have varicose veins, you should consider seeking treatment if they are painful and/or worsening. It is also worth considering if you are uncomfortable with the way that they look. Since the treatment is typically a simple outpatient procedure, there is no reason that you should wait for any reason to seek treatment for your varicose veins.

Varicose Veins Treatment Near Me

If you are looking for varicose veins treatment, give BASS Vein Center a call at (925) 329-3718. They are professional and passionate about vein health. You can also check out their website here. There is no reason to delay your varicose vein treatment. If your varicose veins are unsightly, painful, or becoming worse, treatment is definitely a viable option that can clear your skin and provide comfort and relief. There are several treatment options. They are all quick and simple and do not require a lot of recovery time. Give BASS Vein Center a call and set up an appointment today.

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