Myths and Facts About Varicose Veins
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Varicose veins are a chronic venous insufficiency event and one of the central themes of vascular surgery. In some cases, before they appear varicose veins, you feel heaviness, tiredness and swelling in the legs. By partnering with our expert in Angiology , here are some myths dispelled on the prevention and treatment of varicose veins
Stand or sit for a long time it favors the appearance of varicose veins
True: in fact, gravity hinders the flow of blood in the veins and, for this reason, dilate, so sometimes the valves that prevent blood circulation do not close properly.
The massages with hot and cold water in shower are useful for blood circulation
It is false because the hot water heat causes dilation of the veins. These massages are performed using only lukewarm or cold water: in this way they contract the most superficial veins.
In summer varicose veins can not be treated
False. It is common belief that during the summer can not be treated the varicose veins , or with sclerotherapy or laser techniques. This myth is based on the erroneous expectation of getting in no time shiny and healthy legs during the summer: this is impossible as a varicose vein treated requires many times longer to disappear.
A person with varicose veins can not go to the beach to sunbathe
False. It is clear that the sun can cause the appearance of new varicose veins ; it overlooks the fact that only the infrared rays, and not those ultraviolet, are harmful and those responsible for skin tanning. Therefore, if you protect your skin with sunscreen you can go to the beach whenever you want, although it is advisable to attend the cooler hours of the day.
Exercise is important for the movement
True: all sports that involve the movement of the legs produce a muscular contraction of the calf. This causes the veins 'flushed' and active circulation. Therefore, the blood does not stay in the same spot and prevent varicose veins.
The Long trips by air can cause blood clots in the legs
True. This is known as "Economy class syndrome" (this is venous insufficiency) and of the requirement to remain still in a very small space during the flight and to the decrease in cabin pressure.
Fancy varicose veins can appear again
False. If you made a radical surgery such as laser surgery, they disappear all varicose and are unable to appear in areas already made. Instead, if there is provided an incomplete surgery, varicose veins are not deleted completely (or the visible nor the side) and for that reason you think that varicose veins will have to operate again.
Contraceptives favor the appearance of varicose veins
Clear. It was confirmed by several studies that women taking contraceptives for a long period of time develop small varicose veins.