Varicose Veins: Understanding the Myths, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Varicose veins are often thought to be a condition that only affects women due to frequent use of high heels. However, this belief is not entirely true. Varicose veins can affect anyone, both women and men, and are generally not dangerous.

However, if left untreated, varicose veins can affect daily comfort and quality of life. In addition, there are still many myths and facts circulating about varicose veins. So, what are the risk factors and how are varicose veins treated? Read on to learn more.

Myth: Varicose Veins Only Occur in Women

Fact: Varicose veins can occur in both women and men.

Quoted from the National Hospital Surabaya YouTube podcast, dr. Robertus Dhany, Sp.B-TKV, a Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon at National Hospital, stated that this myth is incorrect. In fact, varicose veins are also common among men, although they were previously more frequently diagnosed in women.

Dr. Robertus explained that research shows the current prevalence of varicose veins in men and women is actually not significantly different. However, women tend to seek treatment more often because varicose veins affect their appearance, while many men tend to ignore the condition.

"Actually, that's a myth. Research has shown that varicose veins can also occur in men. Globally, the percentage has traditionally been higher among women, but recent studies show that the numbers are now almost the same," explained dr. Robertus Dhany.

Myth: Wearing High Heels Causes Varicose Veins

Fact: High heels do not directly cause varicose veins, but they can worsen the condition.

When wearing high heels, pressure distribution within the veins of the legs becomes less optimal. As a result, the legs become tired more quickly, and pressure inside the veins increases. For individuals who already have risk factors or existing varicose veins, this condition may aggravate their symptoms.

Myth: People Who Exercise Frequently Are More Likely to Develop Varicose Veins

Fact: This is not true.

Many people assume that athletes or individuals who exercise regularly are more likely to develop varicose veins because the veins in their legs appear more prominent. In reality, enlarged veins in athletes are often a normal physiological response to increased muscle activity and do not necessarily indicate varicose veins.

Therefore, a medical examination is still necessary to determine whether the visible veins are varicose veins or simply a normal condition.

Are Varicose Veins Dangerous?

In general, varicose veins are not a life-threatening condition. However, if left untreated, they can cause various symptoms that interfere with daily activities, including:

1. Legs that feel sore or tire easily
2. Discomfort when standing or walking for extended periods
3. Swelling in the legs
4. Reduced self-confidence due to the appearance of bulging veins

In more severe cases, varicose veins can lead to skin discoloration and the development of wounds that are difficult to heal. These wounds are often mistaken for complications of diabetes, when in fact the underlying cause is venous disease.

Risk Factors for Varicose Veins

Several factors may increase the risk of developing varicose veins, including:

1. Overweight or obesity
2. Type 2 diabetes mellitus
3. Occupations that require prolonged standing or sitting in the same position, such as teachers, healthcare professionals, military personnel, and office workers
4. Family history and increasing age

How to Prevent Varicose Veins

Several measures may help reduce the risk of varicose veins, including:

1. Maintaining a healthy body weight
2. Exercising regularly
3. Controlling blood sugar levels, especially for people with diabetes
4. Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing without movement
5. Wearing compression stockings if your job requires prolonged standing or sitting

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as:

1. Prominent, bluish, and twisted veins in the legs
2. Legs that feel sore or heavy
3. Swelling in the legs
4. The appearance of spider veins (small blood vessels resembling a spider web)
5. Skin discoloration on the legs
6. Leg wounds that are difficult to heal

The doctor will perform an evaluation through a physical examination and confirm the diagnosis using a vascular ultrasound (Doppler Ultrasound).

Varicose Vein Treatment at National Hospital

Treatment for varicose veins is tailored to the severity of the condition. In the early stages, treatment may include:

1. Lifestyle modifications
2. Compression stockings
3. Medications as indicated

For more advanced cases, minimally invasive medical procedures are available, including:

1. Sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a special solution into the affected vein to close it.
2. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), a procedure that uses laser energy to close the affected vein without the need for major surgery. The EVLA procedure generally takes about 1.5–2 hours and is one of the modern treatment options for managing varicose veins based on medical indications.

Early Detection Leads to Better Treatment Outcomes

Although varicose veins are not always dangerous, their symptoms should not be ignored. The earlier varicose veins are detected, the greater the opportunity to receive appropriate treatment using simpler methods before the condition progresses.

At National Hospital, comprehensive screening and treatment services for varicose veins are available according to the severity of the condition, ranging from conservative therapy and sclerotherapy to minimally invasive Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA). If you experience symptoms such as sore or heavy legs, swelling, or visibly enlarged veins, do not hesitate to consult a doctor to receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.