Varicose veins, Jacksonville vein specialist Dr. James St. George says, are a highly misunderstood condition. Several major myths persist. So, the St. Johns Vein Center offers a few clarifications and truths about varicose veins:
Myth: Varicose Veins are a cosmetic issue only
Truth: The notion that varicose veins are merely a cosmetic issue is perhaps the single biggest myth about the condition – and potentially the most dangerous. Varicose veins are in fact a medical condition that, if left untreated, can lead to more serious ailments including blood clots and ulcers. The good news is that they’re easily treatable via several non-invasive procedures and techniques.
Myth: Men don’t get varicose veins.
Truth: While varicose veins are far more prevalent in women, they do affect men as well. In fact, upwards of 18 percent of men get them. If you’re a male and either or both of your parents have varicose veins, your chances of developing them are significant, and increase with age and certain lifestyle choices. Smoking, obesity and lack of exercise will boost your risk.
Myth: Only the elderly get varicose veins.
Truth: Age is definitely a factor in the development of varicose veins. But heredity plays a major role, too. Many patients, particularly women, can develop varicose veins as early as their late 20s. Many patients report that they observed their first spider veins as a young teenager. Risks increase with pregnancy, unhealthy weight gain and jobs or hobbies that require long periods of standing.
Myth: Closing off varicose veins causes circulatory problems.
Truth: Many varicose vein sufferers are wary of treatments that close off large veins, fearing that the procedure will only cause more serious circulatory problems. The reality is that even the largest varicose veins carry a relatively insignificant amount of blood. The blood is simply re-routed through remaining healthy veins. In fact, treating these veins significantly improves the circulation in the leg.
If you have varicose veins, don’t let the myths keep you from getting the treatment you need. Contact the St. Johns Vein Center at 904-402-VEIN (8346) and schedule a consultation today.
More information on veins can be found online at www.veindirectory.org
