Varicose Veins—10 Common Treatment Myths

INTRODUCTION

Anyone that is unclear as to the diagnostic and treatment options available for varicose veins or that has received incorrect information is more likely to make a wrong decision regarding his/her “bad vein” problems.

Making good decisions, after all, starts with having accurate, complete and up-to-date information at one’s disposal.

POPULAR MYTHS EVERYONE SHOULD SHUN

--“Any doctor is qualified to treat varicose veins.”

While all doctors may be qualified to examine varicose veins, treatment is best left to physicians that specialize in this field; such licensed experts include phlebologists, dermatologists, vascular surgeons, aesthetic medicine specialists, and interventional radiologists. 

--“Vein problems are only aesthetic concerns, not necessarily needing treatment.”

While most varicose, reticular and spider vein problems are not life-threatening and may not need immediate medical care, it’s dangerous to assume that this is always the case.  Especially in cases involving painful ulcers, bleeding, infections, and, most importantly, blood clots, medical care needs to be sought right away.

One should also not feel as if forced to live with ugly veins, if they interfere with one’s overall happiness and everyday responsibilities.

--“Varicose veins treatment is mostly for vain people.”

While it may be true that many people seek treatment for varicose veins because they simply don’t like how they look, wanting to have them removed or treated doesn’t make a person “conceited” or “vain.”  Besides, availing oneself of technology that can make life better is simply the smart way to go.

--“Varicose vein treatment is just for rich folks.”

Contrary to popular opinion, even the poor have the right to address unsightly and possibly dangerous varicose veins.  Varicose veins are a medical concern—as such, they are legitimate problems.

--“Treatment of varicose veins is highly experimental.”

Actually, how good physicians become with a technique depends on how prevalent the problem is; it also depends on how long developed techniques have been around.  Most of the treatment options for varicose veins have a long, proven track-record.

--“Varicose veins are unavoidable—especially for women, older folks and those who stand/sit for long periods.”

While it is true that some people are more susceptible to varicose veins, there are ways to reduce the chance of developing them or to at least make sure their effects are properly controlled.  Use of compression stocking, for example, and raising one’s feet above heart level for part of the day can have very positive effects.

--“All varicose treatment options are painful, invasive or unnecessarily risky.”

The truth is that many of the treatment options are routinely done with very few side-effects or complications.  The amazing thing to keep in mind is that the body can easily compensate for any veins closed off or removed.

--“All vein treatment centers are essentially the same.”

You will find that the centers that have been around for a while, that enjoy a good reputation and that provide the latest diagnostic/treatment options are often a few notches above the competition.

--“Only old folks and women need worry about varicose veins.”

Actually, varicose veins do not discriminate; they may strike persons of any age or sex.

--“Other medical problems are always more important than bad veins.”

Considering that varicose veins can precede or be related to serious medical problems (like clogged veins), this is often just not true.

CONCLUSION

Although some people prefer to postpone treatment for varicose veins, it is never too late to do something about them.  The process starts by not succumbing to popular myths.

Copyright, 2018.  Fred Fletcher.  All rights reserved.

Resources & References

https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/top-10-myths-varicose-veins-11515214

https://varicoseveins.org/common-myths/

9/12/2019 7:00:00 AM
Fred Fletcher
Written by Fred Fletcher
Fred Fletcher is a hard working Consumer Advocacy Health Reporter. Education: HT-CNA; DT-ATA; MS/PhD Post-Graduate Certificates/Certifications: • Project Management • Food Safety • HIPAA Compliance • Bio-statistical Analysis & Reporting • Regulatory Medical Writing • Life Science Programs Theses & Dis...
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Comments
Once they close off or cut out defective or diseased veins the body finds ways to re-direct blood flow or new pathways can be re-grown. Isn't this down-right mind-blowing?
Posted by Susan Blakely
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