Top 5 Myths About Varicose Veins

Varicose veins will affect up to 20% of men and 40% of women at some point in their lifetimes, and the condition becomes more prevalent with age. Although varicose veins cannot be 100% prevented, they can be successfully treated: we specialize in varicose vein treatment in Houston, Texas.  In addition to treatment, the likelihood of developing this condition can be minimized for both men and women.

Varicose veins can be more than just unsightly; sometimes people will suffer from aching legs, swollen feet, muscle cramps, legs that feel “heavy”, and more. It’s important that people understand what varicose veins are, how the risk of developing them can be reduced, and how they can be properly treated. The following are five common myths concerning varicose veins that everyone should be acquainted with:

1. Phlebology is the recognized specialty for treating vein disease. Although there is an organization called the American College of Phlebology, which promotes the treatment of venous disease, this is more of a club. There is no specific training required to be a member. They offer a board certification, but it isn’t recognized by the American Board of Specialists. Many of its members have training in areas such as radiology, and cardiology. Cardiology training has nothing to do with venous disease, and radiologists, while they have medical degree are considered physicians only if you use the term loosely. The only specialty, recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialist, which is uniquely qualified to treat venous disease is Vascular Surgery. If you have problems with your leg veins, or problems with your legs, that you think may be related to vein disease, you owe it to yourself to see a Board Certified surgeon.
2. There’s a vein center by my house and they’re on TV, so they should be OK for me to go to. For the best results and the best outcome from treatment, a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon should be consulted. It’s important that patients receive the best healthcare at all times, and when it comes to who to see for varicose veins, a specialized doctor can provide exactly that. A professional with vast surgical expertise will be able to combine his or her knowledge and experience with state-of-the-art treatment options, and will be able to most successfully treat varicose veins. Only a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon can properly evaluate your circulation to determine whether veins are causing your problem – and the best treatment, if they are causing problems.
3. With proper diet and exercise my veins will improve. If you’re interested in how to prevent varicose veins, you should pick your parents well. Varicose veins are mostly hereditary. If you have the propensity to develop veins because of family history, know that there are several things you can do. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time, and elevate your legs when you can as you sit, Varicose Veins Can’t Be Fixed On Your Own. The only true way to treat the issue is to see a vascular surgeon with experience using minimally invasive treatment techniques. When it comes to how to fix varicose veins, a vascular surgeon will have a variety of treatments available and can help you determine which ones would best suit your particular situation. Dr. Bardwil, for example, can treat varicose veins in Houston using an arsenal of procedures, including laser vein ablation, microphlebectomy, and sclerotherapy.
4. Massaging Can Get Rid Of Varicose Veins. Unfortunately, this is also false. While massage can help reduce discomfort and swelling that sometimes accompany the condition, it will not make the veins disappear. If symptoms of varicose veins include swelling, pain, discomfort, throbbing, aching, and muscle cramps, massage may assist in relieving the symptoms, but it won’t take away the cause – varicose veins.
5. Any Doctor Can Best Treat The Condition. While this is meant as a general guide to dissolving five common myths about varicose veins, it is not a complete guide. For the most thorough and personalized information regarding your case and your treatment options make sure to consult a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon for varicose vein treatment.

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Dr. Michael Bardwil

Michael F. Bardwil M.D., F.A.C.S., R.V.T., R.V.P.I., is a vascular surgeon and is board-certified in both general and vascular surgery. He has over 26 years experience performing a wide range of surgical procedures. Since 2004, he has dedicated his efforts exclusively to the treatment of leg veins. He has taken his vast surgical expertise and combined it with state-of-the-art, cutting-edge technology, to form Texas Vein and Cosmetic Specialists. He has meticulously written or reviewed all the website content, ensuring that all the medical facts are correct.

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