Many people tolerate the pain and appearance of varicose veins due to the popular varicose veins myths. These myths may prevent you from seeking medical treatment, leading to severe complications that may cost you your legs. Luckily, Upper East Side Cardiology specialists are ready to help if you are struggling with varicose veins New York. Before you seek treatment for the condition, it is ideal to differentiate facts from falsehoods about this condition.
Why do you have varicose veins?
Varicose veins are dilated, enlarged, twisted veins that develop at the back of your legs. These unsightly veins are due to a malfunction in the valves, resulting in blood pooling. The valves in your veins regulate blood flow from your heart. The weakening of these valves causes blood to leak backward, resulting in dark ropey veins.
Varicosities may appear as blue or purple lumps on your skin surface but are more prominent and darker than spider veins. Extended periods of standing may also contribute to the development of these unsightly veins. If you also have peripheral vascular disease or are obese, you may risk getting varicose veins.
What complications are associated with varicose veins?
Varicose veins could be a cosmetic issue and may not necessarily require medical intervention. However, some people may experience several painful symptoms such as heavy, cramping, or throbbing sensation in the legs, interfering with their daily activities. Other symptoms include itching around the affected veins, pain that worsens after extended periods of standing or sitting, and skin discoloration.
If varicose veins are not taken care of, they may result in severe complications such as blood clots, bleeding, and ulcers. Ulcers are wounds that rarely heal independently and take longer to heal with medical intervention. An infection of the ulcers may lead to other complications, prompting amputation.
What is the truth behind the poplar varicose veins myths?
Many people believe they understand how varicose veins form and how to treat them. But these beliefs may be sometimes misleading, preventing you from getting the medical care you need. One of the popular myths is that varicose veins are for women only.
Menopause and pregnancy may be the primary causes of these veins in women due to hormone fluctuation, but this does not mean that men are immune to varicose veins. Another myth is that varicose veins are inevitable as you get older. While your risk of developing varicose veins increases with age, not everyone gets them.
The most misleading myth is that varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern. At best, these veins affect your physical appearance, but they may also cause several uncomfortable symptoms. In some cases, they lead to tired, aching, and excruciatingly swollen legs, limiting your mobility. In worst-case scenarios, varicose veins may indicate chronic venous insufficiency, a health condition that leads to ulcers.
Some people may tell you that varicose vein therapies are painful, but they are not. With advanced technology, the Upper East Side Cardiology team offers minimally invasive treatments with minimal scarring.
Call the Upper East Side Cardiology or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about varicose veins.
