Okay, so we all know that “Varicose Veins” is not likely to be a category on the next episode of Jeopardy. But there are many interesting factoids and myths regarding the topic that even if you think you know it all when it comes to varicose veins, there is always something new to learn. Here, we share a list of thought-provoking and valuable trivia on the topic, but our master of ceremonies is not Alex Trebek. If it had to be anyone, it would be John D. Horowitz, MD, FACS, the founder and director of Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center, which is the place to go to for the best varicose vein and spider vein treatment in Orlando.

Anyway, here are the top trivia facts for varicose veins. And while we’re having fun, remember that the real jeopardy is when you or a loved one ignore the signs and symptoms of varicose veins.

• Even celebrities get the blues (and purples). Big names who reputedly have battled varicose veins include pop star Britney Spears, actresses Emma Thompson and Sarah Jessica Parker, and even King Henry VIII. Like most medical conditions, no one is immune to varicose veins.
• Varicose veins and superficial (or spider) veins are very different. Varicose veins are a potentially serious medical condition, while spider veins are merely a cosmetic nuisance. While they have similar origins, the consequences are vastly different.
• While the legs typically are the most common body part affected, varicose veins can occur in any body part. Gravity plays a huge part in the development of the condition, and the amount of standing most people do makes the legs most vulnerable.
• Some foods, and even some good ingredients, may make varicose veins worse. It’s been reported that excess sugar and Vitamin C can contribute the occurrence of varicose veins.
• Varicose veins affect both men and women. Some people are under the mistaken impression that men do not get varicose veins. This simply is not true. Men do indeed suffer from the condition, but in some cases do not seek treatment because of a perceived stigma.
• Athletes can be at a special risk for developing varicose veins. If you think exercising regularly makes you invulnerable to varicose veins, you’re wrong. Certain sports actually can create a greater risk; weightlifters put incredible strain on their leg muscles, and cyclists routinely perform highly repetitive leg motions, both of which can lead to varicose veins.
• Cross off crossing your legs as a cause. Unfortunately, it’s a widely believed myth that crossing your legs increases your risk for developing varicose veins.
• There are innovative treatment techniques that are minimally invasive, virtually pain-free and cause very little downtime. State-of-the-art therapies include endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGS).
• Varicose vein treatment typically is covered by insurance. It’s another common misunderstanding that varicose vein treatment is not covered by medical insurance companies.
• Varicose veins can lead to serious and even life-threatening medical conditions. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to blood clots and even deep vein thrombosis.

For more information on today’s treatments, contact Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center, the top clinic for varicose vein and spider vein treatment in Orlando. You can call us at 407-545-3385 or 352-658-5547, or contact us online.