Separating fact from fiction when it comes to vein disease can save a lot of headache and spare even bigger health issues. Let’s explore some of the top six myths when it comes to vein diseases:
1. Vein Disease Only Affects Old People
While older individuals will tend to show spider veins and varicose veins, which is the more serious of the two, vein disease can affect younger individuals, and genetics pay a big role in an individual’s chances of acquiring the disease. As a result, if there’s been history, regular checkups are advised. Also, look for some of the symptoms of vein disease – discussed below.
2. Varicose Veins Are A Cosmetic Issue
Is it true that you should turn a blind eye to something that’s thought to be a simple part of the aging process, similar to wrinkling? This is false. Varicose veins is a serious medical issue that can cause even greater health crises if left untreated.
3. Insurance Won’t Pay for Vein Disease Treatment
It’s often perceived that varicose vein treatment is not covered by insurance due to the perception of it being a cosmetic issue. This is a myth, since most insurers cover the treatment, and many regard varicose veins as a medical issue.
4. Treatment is Temporary
When executed properly, varicose vein treatment provides permanent results.
5. Varicose Veins are Spider Veins
The terms are used interchangeably, however varicose veins are considered to be the more serious of two issues. Spider veins may be a cosmetic flaw, while varicose veins take root in venous diseases.
6. Vein Disease’s Sole Treatment Option is Vein Stripping
Vein stripping is considered to be an old-fashioned method of treatment, compared to effective, non-invasive and pain-free options like Endevenous Laser Treatments.
Top Symptoms of Vein Disease
Besides unsightly veins, there are a few other not so subtle signs of vein disease, including:
- Tiredness – in the legs. If you frequently feel the need to rest your feet, be sure to have a specialist or phlebotomist conduct a detailed screen for vein disease, and also mention if there has been a family history of the condition.
- RLS – there are many myths surrounding restless legs syndrome, but studies do find that people who have this issue also have an underlying vein issue going on. Once treatment for vein disease is conducted, the restless legs syndrome often subsides.
- Discoloration – skin conditions surrounding the leg area including spotting and discoloration is common with vein disease.
- Swelling and Bruising – the legs appear inflamed and feel sore at the same time. This can signal a ticking time bomb waiting to happen, in terms of blood clots, hypertension and other serious health issues.
These and other symptoms of vein disease can be eased with ENLT.
