Fact or Fiction: Ultimate Varicose Veins

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About This Quiz

Varicose veins probably conjure visions of old women with gnarled legs wearing support hose and sensible shoes. But what exactly are varicose veins? Take our quiz and test your knowledge of this common condition.

Are varicose veins painful?

yes

sometimes

Varicose veins don't always hurt, but many people do experience aching, swelling, cramping and itching around the raised veins.

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Varicose veins start because of problems in your _______.

blood valves

The veins in your legs are working against gravity to return blood to your heart. Valves keep your blood from getting pulled back into your legs, but when they weaken, the blood gets trapped and enlarges your veins.

heart

leg muscles

veins

kidneys

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Simple laser therapy has proven effective for treatment of small varicose veins. What kind of laser therapy is the best new treatment for larger varicose veins?

cold

focused

endovenous

Simple laser therapy applies laser-focused heat to the problem area. Endovenous laser treatment inserts a laser fiber into the vein through a thin tube.

infrared

hemotherapy

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Are varicose veins only in the legs and feet?

yes

The legs and feet are the most common place for varicose veins, but any vein can become varicose.

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If you have varicose veins, are you at higher risk of other circulatory problems?

yes

Yes -- if you have varicose veins, you and your doctor should be on the lookout for any related circulatory issues.

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Why are varicose veins blue?

because the blood has stopped moving

because the blood is deoxygenated

The blood in your veins is deoxygenated and on its way to be recirculated to the lungs. Thus, the blue color.

because that's how blood appears when viewed through the skin

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If you develop varicose veins during pregnancy, should they go away on their own?

yes

If you've gotten varicose veins for the first time while pregnant, they should disappear on their own within three months, when your circulation returns to normal.

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Why do women get varicose veins so much more than men?

because of hormonal changes

It's probably because of hormonal changes, which happen at so many times in a woman's life. Female hormones (and birth control pills) could weaken vein walls.

because they have thicker blood

because their blood circulates more slowly

because more of their body fat is distributed in the legs

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