The latest poll included 1,004 Canadian women and results showed that although experiencing symptoms, many of the women believed varicose veins to be a normal part of aging. Only one-third of respondents believed varicose veins to be a serious health condition.
Vascular surgeon Dr. Beverley Chan explained, “I frequently encounter patients who believe varicose veins are a purely cosmetic condition, and who do not understand their potential underlying cause. It’s important that people recognize varicose veins are not simply a result of aging, but could be a sign of chronic venous disease, a condition that can result in disabling physical and psychological pain.”
The poll also revealed that 70 percent of women experienced at least one symptom and 80 percent of women with varicose veins have experienced more than one symptom. Half of the women who experience a symptom didn’t feel it was serious enough to talk to their doctor about it.
Dr. Chan continued, “All too often I see patients suffer from uncomfortable and painful symptoms associated with this condition, which can impact daily activities like taking a shower, walking or driving overall affecting quality of life. The good news is that there are treatment options, including over-the-counter medications that address the venous inflammation and loss of venous tone, which helps relieves the signs and symptoms of the mild-to-moderate chronic venous disease.”
By speaking to your doctor about your varicose veins, they can introduce you to the different treatment options available. Treatment for varicose veins has come a long way and often is an outpatient, non-invasive procedure. The only way to reduce symptoms is to be open with your doctor so you can be treated.
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