Misinformation about varicose veins is everywhere, and it keeps many people from getting help. Some delay care for years because they believe the wrong things. At Venia, Dr. Douglas Stafford hears these myths daily. Here are five myths about varicose veins worth leaving behind.
Myth 1: Varicose Veins Are Just a Cosmetic Problem
The Fact: Appearance is only part of the story. Varicose veins often come from weak or damaged valves, a condition known as venous reflux, and can cause leg pain, heaviness, swelling, cramping, and itching. Left untreated, reflux can progress to Chronic Venous Insufficiency, skin changes, and ulcers.
Myth 2: Only Older Women Get Varicose Veins
The Fact: Women are affected more often, but varicose veins occur in men too, and they can begin in younger adulthood. Genetics, pregnancy, prolonged standing or sitting, weight, and age all contribute. If your family has a history of vein problems, your risk is higher regardless of gender.
Myth 3: Crossing Your Legs Causes Varicose Veins
The Fact: Crossing your legs may briefly affect circulation, but it isn’t the root cause. Varicose veins stem mainly from faulty valves, often influenced by heredity. That said, long periods of sitting or standing can worsen symptoms, so moving regularly helps.
Myth 4: Treatment Means Painful Surgery and a Long Recovery
The Fact: Old-fashioned vein stripping is largely a thing of the past. Today’s options are minimally invasive and performed in the office, including radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser treatment, and VenaSeal. For bulging surface veins, microphlebectomy uses tiny incisions with minimal downtime, and most patients return to normal activity quickly.
Myth 5: Treated Varicose Veins Always Come Back
The Fact: When a diseased vein is closed, it doesn’t reopen; blood simply reroutes to healthy veins. However, vein disease can be ongoing, and new varicose veins may develop over time, especially if the underlying cause isn’t fully addressed. A thorough diagnostic ultrasound helps ensure the source of reflux is found and treated, and follow-up care and healthy habits support long-term results.
Separating Fact From Fiction
The best way to know what’s happening in your legs is to have them properly evaluated. Many of these myths keep people suffering longer than necessary, when effective treatment is available right here in Coeur d’Alene.
Have questions about your veins? Contact Venia at 208.676.0104 to schedule a diagnostic ultrasound and get real answers.
