When it comes to varicose veins, many people assume that it’s an issue that only women experience.

This simply isn’t true. In fact, men make up about 50 percent of patients with varicose veins, but are less likely than their female counterparts to seek treatment.

Nevertheless, this is just one of a number of misconceptions about varicose veins. 

Here are six myths about varicose veins busted.

1. Varicose Veins Are Just a Cosmetic Issue

In many cases, varicose veins are a cosmetic issue that patients find bothersome.

However, they can also suggest an underlying medical condition like venous hypertension or venous insufficiency. If left untreated, these issues can lead to leg ulcers, blood clots, or pulmonary embolism.

Additionally, varicose veins can present with symptoms such as dryness, itchiness, achiness, heaviness, throbbing, cramping, and swelling, which may warrant medical intervention.

2. Only Older Individuals Get Varicose Veins

While age is a risk factor for varicose veins, it’s possible for individuals of any age, even teenagers, to encounter them.

Plus, individuals that are the most likely to get varicose veins are those that have a family history of the condition. That’s because genetics plays a much more significant role than age in the development of this venous disease.

3. Running Causes Varicose Veins

Running does not cause varicose veins. It actually has quite the opposite effect by activating calf muscles. This type of muscle contraction is important because it exerts pressure on leg veins to help propel blood back up to the heart.

4. Surgery Is the Only Way to Treat Varicose Veins

In reality, most cases of varicose veins can be treated with non-surgical procedures including sclerotherapy, laser treatments, and sonic wave technologies.

5. Crossing Your Legs Will Lead to Varicose Veins

It’s more about extended periods of sitting, rather than how you sit, that causes blood to collect in leg veins and lower extremities. Therefore, as long as individuals get up to walk around and stretch periodically, there is nothing wrong with crossing your legs.

6. There’s Nothing You Can Do to Prevent Varicose Veins

In addition to a multitude of non-invasive ways to treat varicose veins, lifestyle modifications can help prevent their occurrence. These include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, following a low sodium diet, and wearing compression stockings as needed.

For additional information about varicose veins treatment in Maryland, please contact the Vein Center of Maryland today to schedule a consultation. We are conveniently located in Westminster, Eldersburg, Baltimore, Hunt Valley and Bel Air.

We also service Ellicott City and Columbia in Howard County.