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.

varicose veins

Table of Contents

8 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

It makes sense that those who are older are more susceptible to varicose veins. After all, our veins age as we do. However, elderly people 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 #2: They’re Just an Old Person Issue

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 #3: Only Women Get 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 #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.

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 moving more, prioritize a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and quit smoking to decrease your chances of developing varicose veins.

Myth #8: 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.

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 Treatments

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.

a vein mapping explained by a vein doctor from Gilvydis Vein Clinic

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.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Gilvydis

Dr. Rimas Gilvydis, M.D, is the co-founder of Northern Illinois Vein Clinic (NIVC) in Rockford, Illinois, and the founder of Gilvydis Vein Clinic (GVC) in Naperville, Sycamore, and Geneva, Illinois. A board-certified interventionalist and diplomate of the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine, Dr. Gilvydis has been treating varicose veins with minimally invasive techniques since they were first introduced.

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 NapervilleSycamoreGeneva, 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.

Get Back to You.

Over 24,000 Successful Vein Treatments
& Counting

We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois  with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.

Get back to yourself.

We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois  with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.