Varicose veins are some of the most common vein conditions and yet, there are still a lot of misconceptions about them. If you missed any information from our recent Premier Vein Clinic blogs, here are some of the most common myths we’ve covered about varicose veins and debunked.
Myth #1: You’ll get varicose veins if you constantly cross your legs.
The truth: Crossing your legs won’t cause varicose veins. However, constantly doing so may exacerbate your varicose vein symptoms such as pain and swelling.
Myth #2: Varicose veins only affect women.
The truth: Varicose veins are most common among women (pregnancy can be a contributing factor), but both men and women can develop varicose veins.
Aside from gender, having a family history of varicose veins, being obese, and a job that requires prolonged sitting or standing can also increase your risk of developing varicose veins.
Some of the jobs that can increase your risk of varicose veins include office/desk, transportation (e.g. bus drivers), education (e.g. teachers or professors), hospitality, retail, medical (e.g. nurses), and beauty (e.g. hairdressers) jobs.
Myth #3: Varicose veins are only a cosmetic issue.
The truth: While a lot of people find varicose veins aesthetically unpleasing, they can be more than just a cosmetic problem. Many people with varicose veins are often prompted to seek treatment because of the pain and discomfort they bring.
Myth #4: Running causes varicose veins.
The truth: Physical activities like running can actually be good for you if you have varicose veins. Any exercise that leads to more calf muscle pumping can be good for blood circulation in your lower extremities.
Myth #5: Surgery is the only option for treating varicose veins.
The truth: Surgery is an option but is no longer the treatment of choice for varicose veins. At Premier Vein Clinic in Knoxville, we offer minimally-invasive treatment options for varicose veins. We have non-surgical procedures such as endovenous laser options (EVLT) and that can treat your varicose veins in less than an hour.
Most insurance companies cover medically necessary varicose vein treatments like EVLT. Most insurance plans will require you to try more conservative measures first like wearing compression stockings before you undergo vein treatments. if conservative measures don’t work and your varicose veins symptoms are not improving, Premier Surgical Vein Clinic of Knoxville can help.
We offer FREE vein screenings with our Vein RN. We also have the region’s largest team of board-certified Vascular Surgeons who are experts in treating arteries and veins. They will assess your condition and recommend the most suitable vein treatment for you.
To request an appointment or free consultation, call Premier Vein Clinic at (865) 588-8229 or visit https://www.premierveinclinics.com/vein-screening/.