Varicose veins are a common condition that occurs when the veins in the legs become blue, bulging, and twisted. It develops when the veins become weakened and valves start to leak. This makes the blood accumulate in veins and cause dark bulges on the legs. 

Even though many people all over the world have varicose veins, three are still a lot of myths and misconceptions about this disease. It is important to understand that such unproven information can make people avoid treatment or perform wrong self-treatment that can aggravate their condition. That’s why we have gathered these five debunked myths about varicose veins you should stop believing in.

1. Varicose veins are only a cosmetic problem
Indeed, varicose veins can make your legs look unsightly. Moreover, they can develop and progress without any pain and other unpleasant symptoms. This can make people think that varicose veins are not dangerous and they don’t require any treatment. 

But the reality is that advanced varicose veins can cause leg swelling, heaviness, pain, cramping, and many other symptoms. If you have noticed at least some of the aforementioned signs, it is better consult the best vein doctor and start treatment as soon as possible.  

2. Varicose veins can’t be treated
Even though there is no complete cure that can help you get rid of varicose veins forever, there are a lot of treatment options that can manage this condition. In the case of mild varicose veins, you can wear compression stockings and maintain a healthy lifestyle to manage your condition. But when the disease becomes advanced, you may need to get minimally invasive non-surgical treatment or surgery. 

3. Surgery is the only treatment options for varicose veins
As mentioned above, there are a few types of varicose vein treatments that can be effective in each particular stage of the disease. Compression stockings, laser treatment, sclerotherapy, and many other minimally invasive non-surgical options can be used to treat varicose veins. 

If you have noticed at least some signs of varicose veins, you should avoid self-treatment since it can aggravate your symptoms and visit a specialist to evaluate your condition. Only then you can start any treatment. However, it is better to ask your doctor about the most suitable treatment options. 

4. Only women can develop varicose veins
Indeed, women are more prone to develop varicose veins because they experience hormonal changes during pregnancy that can affect the condition of their veins. Additionally, women who take hormonal birth control are also more likely to get varicose veins. But men can also develop varicose veins especially if they spend a long time sitting or standing. 

5. Spider and varicose veins are the same things
It may seem that spider and varicose veins are the same conditions but the reality is that they are different health issues that are caused by one problem. Both spider and varicose veins develop because of unhealthy veins. 

But you should know that spider veins are mostly red and small while varicose veins are large and purple. Another difference is that spider veins can disappear without any treatment while varicose veins require treatment since they can progress and cause more severe symptoms.

The bottom line
There are a lot of factors (like family history, obesity, hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, prolonged sitting or standing, etc.) that can contribute to the development of varicose veins. That’s why it is essential to pay sufficient attention to your health if you want to prevent the development or aggravation of varicose veins. Proper self-care and regular medical check-ups can help you avoid serious complications and improve your well-being.