Many people have varicose vein abnormalities in their legs that affect the quality of their lives and force them to depend on pain medication. Although there are some common risk factors that make it more likely one could develop vein disease, there are also many widely held, but false, beliefs regarding the causes and treatment.
Varicose vein specialists bust vein myths
Misinformation may mislead those who suffer from varicose veins, causing them to hesitate about seeking treatment. In an effort to dispel some of these myths, below are some common misconceptions about varicose veins along with the facts.
- Varicose Veins Are Simply a Cosmetic Issue – Many people with varicose veins eventually develop some symptoms. These may range from swelling, achiness, cramping, throbbing or heaviness. Additionally there may be varicose vein bleeding, discoloration, severe dryness, itching, or skin ulceration. There is also an increased risk for deep vein thrombosis, a dangerous type of blood clot.
- Everyone Gets Varicose Veins as They Age – The major cause of varicose veins or spider veins is genetics, although some occupations that require prolonged standing may make them worse. Like many health issues, vein problems are more common with aging. Although they can occur in teenagers, most people begin to experience problems in their middle age. The elderly often have the most advanced problems if veins are left untreated.
- Varicose Veins Are Exclusive to Women – Anyone can get varicose veins, although varicose veins occur more commonly in women. Up to 15% of men have some varicose veins compared to approximately 25% of women.
- Treated Varicose Veins Come Back – With today’s advanced laser technology, and through the use of duplex ultrasound to accurately see the size and location of diseased veins, the way varicose vein specialists are treating varicose veins has never been more effective. Using laser surgery for varicose veins, it is now possible to eliminate the problem veins and prevent recurrences, although there is a possibility that new veins could form. Importantly, these modern treatments are virtually pain-free, safe and require little to no down time.
- Insurance Won’t Cover Treatment for Varicose Veins – Most patients seek treatment for removing their varicose veins when they have symptoms and will typically find that their insurance provider has a policy in place to address those symptoms. Insurance companies are aware that vein disease has real symptoms and risks, worsens over time, and isn’t simply cosmetic.
Where can you get varicose vein treatment?
If you would like more information about treating varicose veins, please contact the Goldman Vein Institute today at one of our three convenient locations:
Jupiter 561-625-9853, Wellington 561-790-4550, or West Palm Beach 561-429-8236, or visit us at www.goldmanveininstitute.com.
At the Goldman Vein Institute, our mission is to provide our patients with comprehensive care for varicose veins, spider veins, leg ulcers, restless legs, and other conditions caused by venous insufficiency. Our highly-qualified and experienced, board-certified vein specialists, Dr. Goldman and Dr. Varghese-Goldman, combine their extensive knowledge and experience, with the latest innovations in vein treatments.
With our offices in Jupiter, Wellington, and West Palm Beach Florida, the Goldman Vein Institute serves patients from Stuart, Hobe Sound, Tequesta, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, North Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, Hialeah, Sunny Isles, Bay Harbor, Bal Harbour, Miami Beach, Aventura, Surfside, Hallandale, and Hollywood, and we welcome patients across South Florida to call us or visit our state-of-the-art vein centers, where we provide the latest in vein treatment technology.
