Varicose Vein Myths De-Bunked
Standing for long periods causes varicose veins Standing for long periods in itself does not cause varicose veins – it can, however, exacerbate the valves in veins that are already compromised. This can lead to pooling of blood in the legs which, in turn, causes the veins to twist and bulge which can be seen as raised varicose veins. Varicose veins are often hereditary. Additionally, it is also a myth that crossing your legs, hot baths, tight clothing cause varicose veins
More women than men get varicose veins Epidemiological studies have shown that women and men are equally affected. Anecdotal evidence suggests that 5 times as many women as men choose to seek treatment suggesting that women find the aesthetic implications of varicose veins more upsetting than men. Many of our patients are overjoyed to be able to wear the clothes that they want to and not have to cover up, especially in warmer weather.
Why pay for varicose vein removal rather than use the creams I see advertised? There are all manner of creams claiming to 'cure' varicose veins but none work. They may ease the symptoms of varicose veins such as itching or dryness of the skin but they do not cure varicose veins. Treatment with a qualified medical practitioner to destroy the problematic veins is the only solution to eradicate them completely.
Surgical stripping of varicose veins is the only effective treatment Fortunately not. Treatments have rapidly advanced over recent years and there are now much gentler, less invasive options such as foam sclerotherapy and including laser or endothermal ablation. Foam sclerotherapy, when performed by a specialist, is the most effective and least invasive can be used to treat large varicose veins and consists of a series of injections along the length of the vein, causing the vein to die and your body takes over the healing process. This procedure is undertaken in clinic and normally takes just half an hour. Mild discomfort is sometimes felt following the procedure but this can be managed with readily available analgesia and patients can carry with their usual daily activities
Should I get my varicose veins treated? Varicose veins do not always need to be treated, however ifyou have symptoms such as pain, heaviness, swollen legs, itching or skin changes it is worth seeing a specialist. These changes may lead to complications, such as ulcers on your legs, and as with many conditions it is prudent to treat earlier rather than later. Sadly, treatments are nigh on impossible to obtain from an under-funded and over-stretched NHS which means that paying privately for treatment is often the only choice available. Many clinics, such as The British Vein Institute, offer treatment packages to patients in an endeavour to keep pricing realistic
TOP TIPS for VEIN HEALTH
- Wear compression stockings to ease symptoms of varicose veins
- Apply emollients for itching associated with varicose veins
- Exercise, reduce salt intake, increase hydration
- Stop smoking to improve vascular health
- Lose weight if necessary