Leg Veins in Ellicott City, MD

More than 40 million people in the United States suffer from varicose veins, and almost 50% of women have leg veins or some other form of venous disease.

Despite these statistics, there are still a number of misconceptions about the development, presentation, and treatment of varicose veins in Ellicott City, MD.

Continue reading for 6 myths about leg veins debunked.

Myth #1 – Leg Veins Are Just a Cosmetic Problem

There’s no doubt that enlarged and discolored leg veins can pose an aesthetic issue and cause self-consciousness. But assuming that they are simply a cosmetic concern can be hazardous to your health.

In fact, when left untreated, varicose veins can cause swelling, aching, throbbing, changes in skin color and texture, and ulcerations.

Myth #2 – Only Older People Get Varicose Veins

Varicose veins can affect patients at any age, especially if they have a family history. For this reason, younger individuals should seek care from a vein specialist sooner rather than later to prevent them from worsening as they get older.

Myth #3 – Men Don’t Have to Worry About Vein Disease

While leg veins are more common in women, men are also prone to them. And many male patients with varicose veins dismiss them as a cosmetic problem or attribute associated discomfort to exercise or hard work.

Myth #4 – All Leg Veins Are the Same

Although spider veins and varicose veins are both types of vascular disease that present in the legs and lower extremities, they are separate conditions.

Varicose veins are typically red and appear in a web-like formation. They also occur superficially and without symptoms.

On the other hand, varicose veins are larger, deeper, and ropey and are usually blue or purple. And as previously mentioned, they can have serious implications on health and quality of life.

Myth #5 – Women Should Wait Until They Are Done Having Children to Seek Vein Treatment

Rather than waiting, women with leg veins should consider treatment between pregnancies. Doing so, will help improve appearance and alleviate symptoms, like swelling, that are common during pregnancy.

Myth #6 – Exercise is Harmful

This is one of the most common myths out there, and it couldn’t be further from the truth. Exercise activates the calf pump and promotes circulation of blood back to the heart. As such, physical activity can help prevent them from developing or worsening.

For More Information

To learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of leg veins in Ellicott City, MD, contact our office today and schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled and experienced vein specialists.