Debunking 8 Common Varicose Vein Myths at Gilvydis Vein Clinic

Varicose veins are those recognizable blue and bulging veins that commonly appear on the legs. According to the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, more than 40 million adults live with varicose veins.

Unfortunately, there are many common misconceptions regarding these painful veins. Gilvydis Vein Clinic is here to debunk these myths and offer effective treatments that will help you get back to the activities you love.

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9 Myths About Varicose Veins

Many people disregard their varicose veins because they believe they’re a normal part of aging. The reality is that, even though they are common, they are not normal and can lead to a progressive vein disorder if left untreated.

Myth #1: Varicose Veins Are Just a Cosmetic Issue

Even though the most common complaint among those with varicose veins is self-consciousness, these protuberant veins can cause much more harm than esteem issues. Varicose veins can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like pain, throbbing, burning, aching, and restlessness. If allowed to prolong past certain stages, varicose veins can severely hinder your health.

Myth #2: They’re Just an Old Person Issue

While elderly people are more susceptible to varicose veins, they aren’t the only ones who get varicose veins. Men and women in their 20s and 30s can also get varicose veins for many reasons. From sedentary lives to unhealthy habits, varicose veins can appear at any age.

Myth #3: Only Women Get Varicose Veins

Varicose veins aren’t exclusively a female issue. Although women have a higher chance of developing varicose veins due to factors like pregnancy and hormonal changes, millions of men live with these painful veins. 

At Gilvydis Vein Clinic, nearly 45% of our patient base is male. In fact, Dr. Gilvydis himself used to suffer from varicose veins.

Myth #4: Nothing Can Treat Varicose Veins

Today, varicose veins are highly treatable due to cutting-edge technological advances and years of research. From endovenous laser ablation to sclerotherapy, varicose vein treatment has become a safe, minimally invasive procedure with little to no downtime. Our procedures are so simple that patients typically resume their normal activities the following day.

Myth #5: Surgery Is the Only Option

Thanks to technological advancements, the majority of varicose veins can be treated with minimally invasive outpatient procedures. This means that you’ll be in and out of the clinic with little to no lingering discomfort—and no need to undergo invasive vein-stripping surgery. Starting with an ultrasound vein mapping, a vein specialist is able to pinpoint the origin of the issue and take appropriate measures. Endovenous laser ablation for example is an effective varicose vein treatment option and recovery is much faster than other surgical options.

Myth #6: Vein Treatment Is Painful

Our varicose vein procedures are designed to be quick, convenient, and produce excellent results with minimal discomfort and downtime. Varicose vein treatment is a life-changing solution that can increase your self-confidence and improve your overall health.

Myth #7: Varicose Veins Can’t Be Prevented

Oftentimes, varicose veins are hereditary and will show up regardless of your lifestyle. However, there are important preventative measures you can take to reduce your risk of varicose veins. Start varicose veins prevention by moving more, prioritize a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and quit smoking to decrease your chances of developing varicose veins. Our vein specialists can show you how to prevent varicose veins. Simply schedule a free screening.

Myth #8: Varicose Veins Are Only in the Legs

While they are commonly found in the lower extremities, varicose veins can develop in other parts of your body such as arms, hands, or the pelvic area. If you have concerns about varicose veins in any area, consult a vein specialist for evaluation.

Myth #9: Insurance Won’t Cover Treatment

Since vein disease is a progressive disease with well-documented physical and visual symptoms like pain and swelling, most insurance companies will cover treatment. Gilvydis Vein Clinic accepts most major insurance with no referral needed. We also accept Medicare.

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When to Worry About Varicose Veins

If you continue to experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, or significant changes in appearance, consult a vein doctor. Seeking medical advice will help identify any underlying issues and determine the appropriate varicose vein treatment.

Do Varicose Veins Ever Go Away?

No, varicose veins don’t go away on their own. There are however treatment options available to manage symptoms and improve their appearance, including lifestyle changes to help prevent varicose veins, and minimally invasive procedures.

It’s important to note that while treatments can help manage varicose veins, new ones may still develop in the future. Regular follow-up care and maintenance may be necessary to monitor the condition and address any new vein issues that arise.

What Kind of Doctor Treats Varicose Veins?

A vascular specialist, also called vascular surgeon or phlebologist, will typically treat varicose veins. These vein specialists have expertise in vein and circulatory-related conditions. They can assess the severity of varicose veins, recommend, and perform treatment options.

What Happens When Varicose Veins Go Untreated?

Unhealthy, weakened veins aren’t able to circulate blood as they should. This is known as venous insufficiency. Without treatment, issues like aching, itching, swelling, and numbness can worsen over time. 

If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to major health complications like blood clots and venous ulcers. If a blood clot dislodges and throws itself into your lungs or heart, the outcome could be fatal.

Types of Varicose Vein Treatment

Thanks to new technology, varicose vein treatment doesn’t have to hurt. Below are our three treatment options to uncover vein disease, reverse blood flow, and help you get a leg up on life.

Ultrasound Vein Mapping

Gilvydis Vein Clinic uses ultrasound vein mapping to locate unhealthy veins through advanced ultrasound technology. Vein mapping allows our vein experts to identify vein disease and determine the best possible treatment for you. Ultrasound vein mapping is painless and lets us assess veins that are not easily visible.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

Endovenous Laser Ablation uses a catheter to close off bad veins and redirect the blood flow to healthy ones. This minimally invasive procedure typically takes less than an hour to complete without the use of general anesthesia. To date, Dr. Gilvydis has performed over 24,000 successful vein procedures.

Sclerotherapy 

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical vein treatment option that closes bad veins through an injectable solution called sclerosant. This solution causes bad veins to scar, collapse, and shrink until they are absorbed into your body. Sclerotherapy helps redirect blood into healthy veins while cosmetically minimizing the look of the bulging vein.

Natural Varicose Vein Remedies

While the above vein procedures are the best ways to treat your varicose veins, there are a few remedies you can try at home. Implementing a healthy diet along with regular yoga and exercise helps reduce your chance of varicose veins by promoting an overall healthy lifestyle.

Along with exercise and yoga, start eating more whole grains, leafy greens, fruit, and healthy fats. And don’t forget to drink water—staying hydrated is crucial for a healthy circulatory system.

Schedule a Screening at Illinois Favorite Vein Clinic

Vein insufficiency is a progressive disease that can worsen over time. If you are experiencing any symptoms of varicose veins, schedule a free vein consultation at one of our vein clinics in Naperville, Sycamore, Geneva, or Rockford, IL. Varicose veins are easily treatable, so don’t let these debilitating veins control your life. Get back to enjoying life again and contact us today.

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