Varicose veins are more common than people think. In fact, up to 30% of the Australian population will experience varicose veins at some point in their life. Due to how common they are, many myths and misconceptions have developed in regard to how they form, what effects they have on the body and the treatment options available. In this article, Vein Care in Melbourne discusses 5 of the most common myths related to varicose veins. This blog aims to debunk some of these myths and provide trustworthy information that is backed by scientific research.
Working on Hard Surfaces Causes Varicose Veins
It is a common belief that working on hard surfaces for prolonged periods of time increases the likelihood of getting hard varicose veins. This is a myth. There is no data suggesting a correlation between standing on hard surfaces and varicose veins. Although working on hard surfaces can contribute to musculoskeletal pains, it has a minimal effect on developing hard varicose veins. Varicose veins in men’s legs, as well as women’s, can develop even if the individual works a job where they are sitting for the majority of their day and career.
Only Women can Develop Varicose Veins
Varicose veins in men’s legs, although not as common as in women, are still prevalent. There is a misconception that only women are able to develop varicose veins. Most of the research shows that varicose veins in men’s legs are almost equally as common as in women. The fact is varicose veins are inherited, which makes family history the largest determining factor, not gender.
Exercise Makes Varicose Veins Worse
This is one of the most common myths associated with varicose veins. The fact is, exercise actually increases blood flow and in turn decreases venous pressure, which reduces varicose vein onset. Running is especially good for reducing varicose veins. The more exercise we do, the more blood is being pumped from the heart to the legs, making the formation of hard varicose veins less likely.
Only Older Adults can Develop Varicose Veins
Although it is far more common for older individuals to develop varicose veins, there have been many cases in which young adults, teens and even children have got them. Studies do show, however, the demographic that is most at risk are women between the age of 40-49. If you are to develop varicose veins at this age, there are a number of treatment options available to reduce the effects.
Surgery is Your Only Treatment Option
There is a huge amount of research today that suggests there are multiple treatment options for individuals with varicose veins other than just surgery. Although invasive surgery is still the most effective method of permanently removing varicose veins, developments in modern medicine provide a number of treatment options. These include ultrasound, laser treatment and injections. Furthermore, varicose veins can be managed by increasing exercise, weight management and dietary changes.
Reach out to the experts at Vein Care in Melbourne today to find out more.
