Throughout history, there have been many myths generated about the cause of varicose veins, how one might avoid getting them, and how one should care for them. Despite the best efforts of vascular experts, several of these myths still prevail in society. Orlando vein center, Florida Vein Care, lists the ones you should not believe.
- Myth 1: “Varicose veins run in my family, so I am going to get them as well.” While varicose veins do seem to be more prevalent in some families than others, the truth is that only about 50 percent of the people who have varicose veins will witness them in other family members.
- Myth 2: “Don’t cross your legs – it cuts off your circulation and you’ll get varicose veins.” If you don’t yet have spider or varicose veins, crossing your legs will not be the reason you get them. Now, if you are already symptomatic, meaning you are experiencing swelling, pain, achiness, or heavy feeling in your legs or have noticed skin discoloration, crossing your legs may worsen your symptoms. Improper or tight-fitted shoes, and even wearing those skin tight jeans, can further aggravate your veins.
- Myth 3: “You should never get a tattoo anywhere on your legs or upper arms – they can cause varicose veins.” This statement has not been proven to be true. Varicose veins are the result of poor circulation caused by improperly functioning valves within the vein walls. Blood pools which cause the veins to swell and triggers other symptoms. It’s a little bit of a stretch to think that tattooing would result in varicose veins.
- Myth 4: “If you are still planning to have children, do not seek treatment for your varicose veins until you are done.” If you have been diagnosed with severe varicosities prior to becoming pregnant, you should consider seeking treatment now. In many women, early treatment of existing problems can help ease the development of varicose veins during pregnancy. Seek the advice of a vascular specialist.
- Myth 5: “After I started getting massages, my varicose veins were cured.” Sadly, if anyone has shared this with you, they haven’t told you the truth. While massage certainly feels good and it may help to alleviate the swelling, achiness, and pain experienced with varicose veins, and those results are short-lived. Poor circulation and ineffective valves cannot be remedied by massage.
The staff at Florida Vein Care is here to help diagnose and explain the options available for the treatment of varicose veins. Dr. Bragg is Central Florida’s leading expert in sclerotherapy, EVLT, vein microsurgery, laser treatments, and ambulatory phlebectemy and will help you decide which treatment is best for you. Call for a consult today at 407-805-8989, or fill out an online contact form.