Almost all of us have seen varicose veins. Some of us may have family members with bulging veins in their legs. You may even be developing venous insufficiency in your own legs, without knowing it. Varicose veins are swollen, purple or red veins that bulge on the skin’s surface. There are some commonly believed myths and misconceptions about varicose veins, even though the condition is extremely prevalent.

Myth #1: It’s Just an Older Woman’s Trouble

It is true that varicose veins occur slightly more often in women because of female hormonal changes. However, men are in no way exempt from this venous condition. In fact, 45 percent of men will experience venous insufficiency and 10 to 15 percent of men will have intensely visible, bulging varicose veins at some point in their lives. Varicose veins are also often perceived as a condition that only affects the elderly.

These veins can affect young people and can actually develop at any age, since venous insufficiency has a variety of different risk factors. Patients certainly perceive it as more common as they age because the disease has had longer to make its symptoms known and has done more damage. However, the primary cause of vein disease, accounting for about 80% of cases, is heredity. It is not at all unusual to find varicose veins in young adults and even teenagers.

Myth #2: Varicose Veins Are Only An Aesthetic Issue

Varicose veins are unsightly and can cause the affected individuals to cover up their legs and abstain from activities where their veins will be seen. However, untreated venous insufficiency and varicose veins will inevitably lead to the harsh symptoms of vein disease. Symptoms include:

Swollen legs, ankles and feet

Pain after standing or sitting all day

Restless legs

Muscle cramping

Throbbing, soreness, or aching in the legs

Heavy feeling in legs

Soreness behind the knee

Itching

Leg muscles that tire easily

Since it is a progressive disease, symptoms become worse as time goes on. Your skin may become irritated, and itch around the affected areas. As venous insufficiency gets worse your skin may become discolored and could give way to a venous ulcer. Varicose veins are a medical condition, not just cosmetic and treatment is almost always covered by medical insurance.

Myth #3: Varicose Veins Will Go Away With Exercise

The truth behind this myth is that varicose veins will not go away on their own. Exercise will not reverse the symptoms of varicose veins but a healthier lifestyle may prevent or slow the progression of venous insufficiency. Keep in mind that certain exercise routines like weightlifting, sit-ups, crunches, and any other strenuous activity can cause or contribute to venous insufficiency. Light cardio can help varicose vein symptoms, adopting a daily walking routine will assist blood circulation and improve your overall health.

You can also help ease symptoms with leg elevation, stretching, and use of compression stockings. These techniques can all help to reduce your risk of aggravating existing varicose veins, but the only way to eliminate varicose veins is by seeking professional treatment. Luckily, today there are a number of minimally invasive procedures available, such as Radiofrequency Ablation and Clarivein Ablation. These newer procedures allow for less bruising, less risk of damage to surrounding tissues, and faster recovery time.

The Full Truth And Nothing But The Truth

If venous insufficiency is present in your legs, treatment will be necessary for relief and elimination of your varicose veins. At Alpha Vein Clinic in Las Vegas, we offer the most up to date procedures. Radiofrequency Ablation and ClariVein are often covered by most medical insurance plans. With these treatments, patients can start to get back to their normal routine within days and with few restrictions. Call Alpha Vein Clinic today at 702-430- 7661 to have an evaluation and consultation with our beloved physician, Dr. Sassan Kaveh. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff can answer all of your questions and help you get on your way to better leg vein health!

Alpha Vein Clinic

Vein Clinic Las Vegas

3150 N. Tenaya Way Ste. 400

Las Vegas, NV, 89128

(702) 430 7661

Dr. Sassan Kaveh

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