Many people assume that varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern, viewing the twisted, bulging veins as nothing more than an unsightly appearance issue that affects how their legs look in shorts or swimwear. This common misconception leads countless individuals to avoid seeking treatment, believing they should simply accept the visible veins as a normal part of aging or a minor inconvenience. However, varicose veins represent a genuine medical condition that involves malfunctioning valves within your veins, and the visible symptoms you see on the surface often indicate underlying circulatory problems that can worsen over time without proper treatment.