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Vein Health

Jun 20
0

Everything You Need to Know About Venous Ulcers

By | Vein Health

If you have a sore on your leg that refuses to heal, you may just brush it off as a slow-healing wound. However, a wound that refuses to heal may actually be a venous ulcer. Learn what you need to know about venous ulcers, including symptoms and treatment options.

The Anatomy of a Venous Ulcer

A venous ulcer, also referred to as a stasis ulcer, occurs when the vein in your leg neglects to force the blood in the vein back to your heart. This causes pressure to build up within the vein, eventually resulting in the appearance of a sore on the skin as the blood and fluid leak into the surrounding tissues.

Venous ulcers most commonly appear on the legs, though they can also occur on other areas of the body.

Symptoms of a Venous Ulcer

The earliest symptoms of a venous ulcer include swelling and cramping in the leg. Your leg may feel heavier than normal, and you may have itching or tingling.

Right before the venous ulcer starts to break through your skin, you’ll notice a red, blue, or purple spot underneath the skin similar in appearance to a bruise. This colored spot breaks through the skin, creating a sore that won’t heal on its own. Once the sore appears, expect your pain levels in your leg to intensify.

Causes of a Venous Ulcer

A number of different factors contribute to the formation of a venous ulcer, like a blood clot, trauma to the leg, and inflammation. Most of the causes of a venous ulcer ultimately decrease the body’s ability to effectively pump blood, resulting in poor circulation or the body’s inability to maintain the correct blood pressure.

Damage to the veins interferes with the body’s ability to control the pressure in the veins. Uncontrolled pressure means that the blood may flow in the wrong direction. If your body can’t circulate your blood correctly, blood may build up in your veins.

Treatment Options for a Venous Ulcer

Treatment for a venous ulcer requires a combination of wound care and managing the underlying causes of the ulcer. Once you have an open venous ulcer, you’ll need to take steps to keep it from getting infected. This involves regularly cleaning and dressing the wound.

You should also try to keep the area around the venous ulcer dry; wet skin is softer than dry skin, and the softness makes it easier for the ulcer to grow in size. Regularly wearing compression stockings can keep blood from continuing to pool in the leg. Some patients find that propping the leg up can hasten the healing process.

Your vein specialist may perform surgery on the vein leading to the venous ulcer if conventional treatment options aren’t working, if the ulcer continually reappears, or if the ulcer is large or infected. Surgery focuses on opening the vein so that it has better blood flow.

Other Techniques to Prevent a Venous Ulcer

There are a few things you can do to prevent a venous ulcer from appearing or reappearing. If you smoke, now is the time to stop. Smoking is known to make it harder for your body to heal, and it can affect your body’s ability to circulate your blood.

Take steps to lose weight if you’re overweight or obese. This decreases your chances of suffering from conditions that can impede your circulatory system. Regular exercise is another option to promote a healthy circulatory system.

If your body is prone to developing inflammation, your doctor may suggest anti-inflammatory lifestyle changes, such as altering your diet.

Have a problematic vein that needs attention? Contact the Vein Centre today to schedule an appointment.

Aug 29
0
Treatment Procedures for Varicose Veins - The Vein Centre

Treatment Procedures for Varicose Veins

By | Uncategorized, Vein Health, Vein Surgery, Vein Treatments

Treatment choices for varicose veins depend on several factors:

  • Whether you are seeking treatment for cosmetic benefits.
  • Whether your varicose veins are causing pain or discomfort.
  • The presence of skin changes, such as ulcers, or other signs of poor circulation.
  • Insurance coverage for treatment procedures.

While in many cases, treatment choices are a matter of personal preference, there are instances where certain invasive treatment options become necessary. Here is an overview of some of the most common procedures used to treat varicose veins:

Sclerotherapy

There are two types of sclerotherapy depending on the severity and size of the varicosities:

  • Standard sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the veins, which lead to scarring and closing of the specific area. Once closed, blood can no longer pool in the area, causing the veins to shrink and fade over a period of one month. In some cases, the vein must be injected more than one time for the procedure to be effective. Standard sclerotherapy can be performed in your vein specialist’s office without the need for anesthesia.
  • Foam Sclerotherapy is commonly reserved for large varicosities or veins not responding to standard sclerotherapy. The procedure is very similar; however, a foam solution is used as a sealant to close the affected veins.

Laser Surgery

Laser surgery for varicose veins is considered a newer technological advancement. This procedure involves the use for lasers to emit high frequency light pulses into the affected vein. Over time, treated veins will begin to fade and eventually disappear. Treatments may need to be repeated for the best outcome. Treatment can be performed in your vein specialist’s office without anesthesia.

Catheter Assisted Radio Frequency or Laser Energy Procedures (Ablation)

This procedure uses a catheter heated by radio frequencies of laser energy to heat seal the affected vein. A small catheter is introduced into the vein, which is heated; it is then removed, which cauterizes, or seals, the varicose vein. This treatment is usually reserved for large varicosities with associated skin changes or producing pain and discomfort. The procedure is usually performed by a vein specialist certified in interventional radiology or an interventional radiologist in an outpatient setting. Although it is minimally invasive, the affected area is prepped and draped to prevent infection. A topical anesthetic is used to minimize discomfort.

Ligation and Vein Stripping

The procedure uses a series of small incisions to access the affected vein and ligate, or tie off, and remove the affected vessel. Removal of the affected areas does not affect circulation, as larger veins in the legs will pick up the slack. Vascular surgeons perform the procedure in either an outpatient surgery suite or in an operating room depending on which veins are affected. Local, regional, and general anesthesia may be used depending on risk factors and size and severity of the affected veins.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy is similar to vein stripping, except on a much smaller scale. The procedure is reserved for more superficial and smaller varicosities. Pieces of the affected vein are removed, utilizing small puncture sites in the skin. Local anesthesia specific to the puncture sites is used in the procedure. Minimal scarring is expected, and recovery time is generally shorter than in ligation and stripping procedures. Ambulatory phlebectomy may be performed in an outpatient surgery center or your vein specialist’s office, if equipped.

Endoscopic Vein Surgery

Endoscopic vein surgery is generally reserved for varicose veins with leg ulcers or associated circulatory symptoms. It is also used in cases unresponsive to other treatments. The procedure involves the insertion of a thin video camera in the affected area and then uses small incisions to close and remove the varicosities. The procedure is generally performed in endoscopic outpatient surgery centers under conscious sedation.

There are various options for the treatment of varicose veins depending on the severity, associated symptoms, and cosmetic benefits. Prior to discussing these options, it is important to review your health insurance options for coverage. Your vein specialist is the best person to discuss your individual cases and preference, and he or she can provide the most appropriate options for your case.

Aug 14
0
Peripheral Vascular Disease - Vein Center

What is Peripheral Vascular Disease? Am I at risk?

By | Uncategorized, Vein Health

Peripheral vascular disease, or PVD, occurs when circulation to areas outside the heart and brain is reduced. The term peripheral, in healthcare, refers to any structure or bodily function occurring away from the central source. The heart and lungs are the central source in our body, and our arms and legs are the peripheral. The most common causes of peripheral vascular disease are narrowing or hardening of the arteries and veins, which limit the blood flow to the outside areas of the body. If the narrowed areas occur at the knee, everything below it will also be affected and so forth.

Peripheral vascular disease can also affect circulation to organs besides the heart and brain, such as the stomach, intestines, and kidneys. When this happens, tissues are starved from oxygen and do not function properly. If the disease progresses and blood flow is cut off, the tissues will eventually die. The affected organs will fail, creating a medical emergency. PVD can also occur from vascular spasms.

Risk Factors for Peripheral Vascular Disease

According to the Center for Disease Control, 12% to 20% of people ages 60 and over get peripheral arterial disease (PAD), the most common type of PVD. This equates to roughly 8.5 million people. Risk factors for functional PAD without damage include:

  • Cold climate
  • Excessive and long exposures to vibration, such as tools and machinery
  • Prolonged stress
  • Certain drugs and medications

The organic form of PVD involves damage to the blood vessels by plaque deposits or thickening of the vessel walls. Risk Factors for this type of PVD include:

  • Smoking, causing chronic constriction of blood vessels
  • Uncontrolled Diabetes, causing sticky build up within the vessels for blood clots to adhere to
  • High cholesterol levels, causing fat deposits within the arteries and veins
  • Infections, leading to chronic inflammation of blood vessels
  • Major injuries involving blood vessels, leading to structural abnormalities

Increased risk factors for getting the disease also include

  • History of blood clots or strokes
  • Prior history of heart disease
  • Hypertension
  • Family history of the condition

Signs and Symptoms of PVD.

Symptoms of PVD happen as a result of the lack of oxygen and nutrients to tissues from decreased blood flow.  A good example is to describe how it feels when your hand or foot is asleep. Chances are there is pain, numbness, and tingling. The skin may also lose its pink and healthy appearance, and even turn blue from lack of oxygen. Over time you may lose feeling in the area and may not know if you have cut or injured yourself, leading to slow healing and infections. If PVD involves internal organs, you will experience signs and symptoms related to poor organ function.

Lifestyle Changes that Prevent PVD

If you fall into a risk category for PVD, there are several things you can do to help prevent or slow the process of developing the condition: quit smoking, adopt a low fat diet, limit foods high in cholesterol, and manage your blood sugar if you are diabetic. 

If you feel that you are at risk, or are developing signs and symptoms of the condition, your Tennessee vein specialists at The Vein Centre can help you find the most appropriate treatment for your situation.

Jul 25
0
Smoking and Varicose Veins

How Smoking Affects Varicose Veins

By | Vein Health

According to an article featured in the American Heart Association’s Cardiology Patient circular in 2014, risk factors for varicose veins are grouped into four categories: hereditary, hormonal, acquired, and lifestyle. More specifically, hereditary risk factors include a family history of varicose veins. Pregnancy and menopause are the largest hormonal factors. Acquired risk factors include obesity, diabetes, blood clots, and venous insufficiency. And, lifestyle choices, such as smoking, also play a big role in developing varicose veins.

Smoking Affects the Veins in Two Ways

The immediate effects of smoking include vasoconstriction or narrowing of the veins. The effects are short-lived; however, over time, permanent changes occur inside the venous linings, which increase muscle tone within the veins. When veins become narrowed, this makes blood flow against gravity back to the heart more difficult. As the blood pools, the hardened veins distend and lead to varicosities.

Studies show that the carbon monoxide and tar present in cigarette smoke have damaging effects to the venous system. Carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen found in the blood.  Because of lower oxygen levels, veins may become inflamed and injured. This response triggers the body to release infection-fighting white blood cells to remove the irritating substances, releasing free radicals. Free radicals have been linked to causing more inflammation and injury to the vein walls, leading to varicose changes.

Higher Stakes for Older Female Smokers

Females smoking over 19 cigarettes daily after the age of 45 with a family history of varicose veins and who are also entering menopause are most likely to develop varicose veins. Middle-aged male smokers with other risk factors are also more prone to develop them. Older female smokers, however, reported more associated symptoms than younger women or male smokers of the same age. These symptoms include, pain, heaviness, numbness, discoloration and ulceration.  Higher reports of associated symptoms are due to insufficient blood flow to the lower legs caused by continued effects of smoking.

Smoking is a Modifiable Risk Factor

Some risk factors, such as age, a family history of varicose veins and menopause cannot be changed. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, and inactivity can be. In fact, by quitting smoking and beginning an exercise program—with your doctor’s approval—may reverse some damage to your veins. And, cardiovascular exercises using the calf muscles will also improve circulation through narrowed veins lessening associated symptoms and improving their appearance.

If you smoke and have varicose veins, it is important that you speak to your doctor or vein specialist regarding your treatment options, especially if you are experiencing symptoms, like pain, numbness, discoloration, or changes in the skin around the areas. There are many programs and several medications that may assist you to stop smoking. Your vein specialist is an important resource in determining the best course of action for your individual case.

Contact a specialist at The Vein Centre today to speak about your treatment options

Jul 11
0
menopause

What you need to know about Menopause and Varicose Veins

By | Vein Health
Hormones During Menopause and Varicose Veins

Both physiologic and hormonal changes experienced during pregnancy increase the risk for varicose veins in women. Higher levels of progesterone and estrogen have a relaxing and thinning effect on the walls of the veins. In addition, higher abdominal pressure and higher blood volumes during pregnancy are also contributing factors leading to varicose veins. The other end of life’s spectrum, menopause, also has its effects on vein health. Whether you are approaching or are in this stage of life, there are some important things you need to know about managing and preventing varicose veins.

Hormonal Balance is a Major Player in Vein Health

Research shows that both estrogen and progesterone have beneficial effects on vein wall support. This phenomenon also occurs in men as both sexes have combinations of both masculine and feminine hormones in the body. The main difference between men and women are the amounts. Estrogen is also needed to make the male hormone, testosterone.

Hormonal balance in women occurs during childbearing years in a non-pregnant state. If increases in estrogen and progesterone weaken the blood vessels by thinning vein walls, then the sharp decreases in both hormones during menopause will have the opposite effect, excessive thickening and constricting of venous walls.

Decrease Hormone Levels in Menopause also Increase the Risk of Varicose Veins.

Hormonal fluctuations in pre-menopause, peri-menopause, and menopause can occur over many years. The rise and subsequent drop of estrogen and progesterone during these phases can create thickened and less flexible vein walls. The effects also occur along valves directing flow back to the heart. Thickened areas along these valves will prevent them from closing, allowing blood to flow freely in both directions. Blood will also pool in areas surrounding the valves, contributing to their swollen and knot-like appearance. The thickened vein walls create narrowed pathways for returning blood, causing congestion and further swelling.

What Actions can I take to Prevent and Lessen Their Appearance During Menopause?

Like pregnancy, varicose veins experienced during the transition to menopause in women, commonly fade. Most times, they are not painful, and their presence is mostly cosmetic. For some women, however, there are associated symptoms, such as pain, heaviness, skin problems, and blood clots. Women experiencing these symptoms should consult with their physician and vein specialist regarding hormone replacement therapy.

Unless other conditions are present, that prevent its use, HRT can be continued during treatment for varicose veins. Patients who are at higher risks for blood clots because of genetic or lifestyle factors may need to discuss other forms or treatment with their physician or specialist. Otherwise, adopting a healthy low-impact cardiac exercise program, which uses the lower body and leg muscles, will assist circulation and improve the condition. Other actions to take include frequent standing breaks during sedentary work and avoiding instances where long-term standing is necessary.

Your primary care doctor or vein specialist can help you determine which treatments give the best results for your individual case. Be sure to discuss options regarding HRT and venous procedures with your vein specialist during your consultation.

Jun 27
0
Pregnancy: A Leading Cause of Varicose Veins in Women

Pregnancy: A Leading Cause of Varicose Veins in Women

By | Vein Health

Pregnancy is one of the leading causes of varicose veins in women.  The effects of pregnancy on the venous system increase the risk for developing varicosities in three ways:

  1. Both fetal weight and the growing uterus will compress the inferior vena cava, which transports blood from the legs back to the heart.
  2. Pregnant women have almost one and one-half times the normal blood volume to nourish both mother and baby.
  3. Hormonal changes in pregnancy cause venous walls to relax and dilate, accommodating the higher blood flow.

All three changes during gestation can place undue stress and tension on venous circulation causing veins in the lower body to stretch and swell. Venous blood flow, unlike arterial blood flow, does not occur in conjunction with the pumping action of the heart. Instead, the veins rely on one-way valves to keep blood from flowing backward due to the effect of gravity.

Fetal and Uterine Factors Contributing to Varicose Veins

Venous blood returning to the heart from the legs is already fighting gravity along its journey.  Picture a heavy object pressing on the large veins in the abdomen and thighs, which then creates restrictions on blood flow. Blood would pool below the compressed areas, and the veins in the legs would need to dilate and stretch to accommodate the congestion. This happens as both the fetus and uterus grow during pregnancy. The end results are varicose veins in the thighs and legs. Most times, superficial veins also dilate, resulting in superficial spider veins. These spider veins are common on the ankles, back of the knees, and even on the abdomen.

Increased Blood Volume

According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.  Blood volumes in pregnancy increase to over 50% more than non-pregnant women. This amounts to over one liter of extra fluid circulating within the veins. The largest part of the increase occurs in the last eight weeks of pregnancy, when both the fetus and uterus are growing in size rapidly. Increased blood volume takes an already compressed venous system below the abdomen. The increased plasma volume along with compression of the inferior vena cava can further dilate veins in the lower body, further contributing to the development of varicose veins.

Hormonal Effects on Venous Walls

Progesterone secreted during pregnancy makes veins more fragile. The weakened veins dilate and stretch more to accommodate both the increase in blood volume and pooling caused by compression of the inferior vena cava. The effects are like the thinning of a balloon when there is too much air blown into it. Superficial spider veins may rupture, creating bruising and superficial hemorrhages under the skin. This occurrence is also a contributing factor in the development of varicose veins during pregnancy.

How to Prevent or Treat Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

The good news is that in most cases, varicose veins disappear within three to four months after delivery of your newborn baby. Sometimes, such as multiple pregnancies and genetic predisposition, they may become permanent. Regardless, there are many treatments available to eliminate or diminish their appearance after pregnancy. There are also several methods you can use to prevent and lessen their appearance during pregnancy:

  • Regular low impact cardiac exercise during pregnancy will increase circulation and prevent blood from pooling in the lower legs.
  • Frequent rest periods, including elevating the legs above the level of your heart can also increase blood flow.
  • The use of compression stockings during daily activities can also deter blood from pooling in the extremities. Be sure to fit compression stockings when your legs are the least swollen to ensure the proper fit. Also, compression stockings should not be tight around the upper legs but should gradually tighten around the ankles.
  • Avoid prolonged sitting or standing and crossing your legs above at the knees to maintain open channels for venous return from the lower legs.

When to Notify your Doctor or Vein Specialist

Varicose veins during pregnancy are seldom harmful and usually resolve on their own after delivery. You should, however, notify your doctor or vein specialist if they do not resolve within several months after delivery. Seek immediate treatment if the skin around the area becomes discolored or hot to the touch. Also, notify your doctor if inflammation, redness, and fever occur. Contact us online or call The Vein Centre today 615-269-9007 for all your vein needs!

Jun 06
0
Pelvic-Venous-Insufficiency

Pelvic Venous Insufficiency (PVI): Affecting Millions of Women

By | Vein Health, Vein Therapy

According to the American Journal of Radiology, pelvic pain is a common condition, which affects millions of women worldwide. It accounts for 25% of all hysterectomies and 33% of all investigative laparoscopic procedures performed for pelvic pain. Leading causes of pelvic pain in women include pelvic congestion syndrome or PCS and pelvic venous insufficiency or PVI. PVI often leads to PCS, which is a chronic condition causing severe pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen, back, hips, and thighs.

What Is Pelvic Venous Insufficiency?

Pelvic insufficiency results when circulation in the major pelvic veins is compromised. Blood pools within the venous system causing pressure on the walls of the veins. Over time, the veins swell and dilate to accommodate blood flow. The one-way valves in the veins weaken allowing blood to flow backwards and pool, causing further pressure on already weakened venous walls. The venous swelling and pressure on adjacent organs and tissues lead to pelvic congestion syndrome or PCS. If left untreated, damage to the veins may become permanent and surgical procedures are needed to correct the problem.

Am I at Risk for Pelvic Insufficiency?

Women of childbearing age, between 20 and 45 years of age are most at risk for PVI. Multiple pregnancies also increase the risk. PVI is also associated with obesity and rapid weight gain due to the increased weight of the fetus, uterus, and abdominal tissues pressing on pelvic veins. Other risk factors include blood clots and a history of varicose veins.

How do I know if I have Pelvic Venous Insufficiency?

Like varicose veins, pelvic venous insufficiency can have no symptoms. Most often, possible symptoms include severe, dull pain in the pelvic area, lower back, buttocks and thighs. Heaviness is often associated with the pain, and menstruation and prolonged standing tend to worsen the symptoms. Painful intercourse and urinary symptoms may also occur. Dilating venous tissues also release neuro-transmitting chemicals, leading to additional depression and anxiety in conjunction with the pain.

Tests for PVI include soft tissue imaging with and without dye. The most common include:

• Ultrasounds to visualize the venous structure around abdominal and reproductive organs. Doppler ultrasounds enable the physician to visualize venous circulation in real time.
• CT Scans provide the opportunity for measuring the diameters of affected veins in order to diagnose the potential severity of the condition.
• MRI’s with and without contrast provide an excellent diagnostic tool to examine the extent of blood pooling and congestion in affected areas.
• Venography is an invasive procedure performed when non-invasive imaging is not sufficient to provide a definite diagnosis. Contrast dye is injected via catheter directly into pelvic veins and measurements are taken to diagnose the severity of venous dilation.

How is PVI Treated?

Non-surgical treatment of PVI and PCS are aimed at treating ovarian dysfunction. Hormonal management with progesterone based birth control pills or treatments are used for their contracting effects on the veins. In some cases, estrogen-inhibiting implants are used in the management of PVI.

Interventional and surgical options are aimed at correcting pelvic vein engorgement and include ligating affected veins or blocking blood flow to the affected area by embolization. In severe and debilitating cases not responding to medical or less invasive surgical treatments, full or partial hysterectomies may be required to prevent irreversible tissue damage.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms indicative of PVI, your primary doctor or OBGYN may refer you to a venous specialist for further testing and management of your symptoms. The vein specialists at The Vein Centre will assist you in making the best possible decisions specific to your case. Contact us or call The Vein Centre today at 615-269-9007!

May 25
0
safe vein exercise

How to Safely Exercise with Varicose Veins

By | Vein Health, Vein Therapy

Exercising Safely 

Improving circulation and heart health is a primary benefit of a regular exercise program. Exercise improves muscle tone in your legs, which helps to pump blood back to your heart. Regular, low impact, and cardiovascular exercise can even help reduce the appearance and alleviate symptoms of varicose veins.

If you have varicose veins, it is important to check with your doctor prior to starting an exercise program. Based on your individual case, your doctor will advise you on which types of exercises to avoid. As a general rule, people with varicose veins may benefit from regular exercises aimed at strengthening the calf muscles.

Which Types of Exercises Should I do?

Low impact cardiovascular or weight-bearing exercises are best if you have varicose veins.

Walking is both a very natural and low impact exercise for the heart and lower legs. Taking a brisk walk outside burns calories, strengthens the leg muscles associated with circulating venous blood, and provides fresh air and access to vitamin D producing sunlight. A brisk 30-minute walk daily may even reduce the appearance of varicose veins and prevent new ones.

Bike Riding, Cardio Machines, and Ellipticals are also good alternatives for low impact exercising. It is best to combine bike riding with other forms of exercise due to the sitting nature of the exercise, however, bike riding also strengthens the calves and buttocks increasing circulation in both the upper and lower legs. Resistance levels on cardio machines can also be adjusted for varying intensities. Caution should be taken with heavy resistance due to strain on the venous walls. If pain is experienced during the activity, you should decrease the resistance or stop the activity. If the pain does not improve or worsens, you should notify your doctor.

Recommended Static Exercises assist in building muscle tone and strength, which act as natural compression for swollen veins. Static exercises using the weight of your legs as leverage are generally enough to increase tone and circulation to the legs. Examples of these exercises include leg lifts and calf raises with no weights or light ankle weights. Bicycle legs performed by lying flat on your back and moving your legs in a bicycle type motion use the weight of your own legs to build strength and endurance.

Which Type of Exercises Should I Avoid?

Heavy Weight Lifting, Lunges, and Squats place an added strain and pressure on venous walls in the legs. You have probably noticed bulging veins on people that lift heavy weights. The same amount of strain placed on varicose veins can worsen the condition. Weight lifting does have benefits in an exercise program, such as increasing bone density, boosting metabolism, and increasing circulation. If you do weight lift, a circuit training program alternating cardio and lifting will reduce the strain on vein walls. Remember to use lighter weights or your own body weight as resistance and maintain proper breathing while lifting. Discontinue the activity if veins become worse or painful.

Running is excellent for cardiovascular health, however, it is treacherous on the joints and legs due to its high impact. Running on asphalt or concrete is even worse if you have varicose veins. If your veins aren’t painful and you prefer running, try running on softer surfaces, such as grass or rubberized tracks.

When to Consult a Specialist

Your vein specialist is your primary resource when choosing an exercise program appropriate for your needs. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program and after vein procedures to determine your best course of action. Always consult your specialist for changes in pain or worsening of the condition.

Contact us online or call The Vein Centre today for more information and to schedule a consultation!

May 09
0
Managing Varicose Veins Diabetics

Managing Varicose Veins in Diabetics

By | Vein Health

What If I have Diabetes and Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins occur when venous valves are unable to direct a one-way flow back to the heart. When the valves become compromised, blood may remain stagnant or even leak back into the affected area.  The result is very similar to traffic flowing in both ways down a one-way street.  Blood pools in the veins below the valves and the walls weaken and stretch to accommodate the extra fluid.

Risk factors for varicose veins include genetics, age, gender, pregnancy, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles.  Diabetes is not a direct risk factor; however, it can lead to further complications in people prone to their development.

Uncontrolled Diabetes Makes Varicose Veins Worse

Consider the consistency of sugary liquids.  The sweeter they are, the stickier they are.  High levels of glucose in the blood has the same effect as it travels through the circulatory system. Uncontrolled levels of blood glucose damage the veins and can delay blood passing through some smaller blood vessels in the legs and feet.  The sugary consistency of the blood may cause plaques to form within arteries and veins already compromised by varicosities.  This combination may lead to blood clots and more swelling, discomfort and additional problems with blood flow.

Injuries Are More Prone to Infection

Higher sugar content provides an excellent feeding ground for bacteria and other organisms. Bumping or scratching areas surrounding varicosities provide excellent entry points for microorganisms, where they will feast on the sugary content of the blood pooled in those areas and rapidly reproduce.  In addition, the circulation may already be affected so that white blood cells do not quickly arrive to fight the infection.  Nerve endings may become damaged in Diabetics, meaning they may not feel cuts, bumps, or scrapes when they occur, increasing the odds of exposure and infection.  Diabetics with varicose veins need to inspect these areas regularly for injuries.  Skin should be kept well moisturized, and protective clothing should be worn when performing activities, such as yard work or other work with a potential for injuries.

Is Treatment for Varicose Veins Different for Diabetics?

Preliminary management of varicose veins in diabetics is essentially similar, however, the primary emphasis is on maintaining healthy blood sugar levels through monitoring, diet, oral medication, and insulin as needed.  Non-invasive treatment options for varicose veins revolve around maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as exercise, limiting salt intake, elevating the legs while at rest, and avoiding injury.  Therefore, recommendations for managing Diabetes are very similar to those for managing varicose veins.

Before performing any invasive procedures, A1C testing is indicated to monitor blood sugar ranges over time before the procedure.  Diabetic patients with varicose veins wishing to have venous procedures should discuss their options with their primary care or internal medicine provider. Your primary doctor may contact the vascular surgeon to communicate that appropriate blood sugar levels are achieved and maintained. Proper evaluation will determine the best individual treatment options that will be performed to minimize risks and optimize results. Visits following the procedure may be more frequent to minimize complications.

If you have any questions or concerns about your varicose veins, contact The Vein Centre today!

Apr 25
0
cosmetic problem

Why Varicose Veins are More Than a Cosmetic Problem

By | Vein Health, Vein Surgery

You might think that varicose veins appear to be cosmetic problem, but these unsightly and unattractive veins can cause potentially dangerous health problems.

The Ugly Truth

 

Dismissing varicose veins as “just cosmetic” is bad for your health. Without consulting your doctor, there is really no way to know if you have some kind of vein disease. Varicose veins are bulging, twisted veins that can be seen and felt right under the skin. Spider veins are a smaller version of varicose veins that can appear as red or blue lines in a webbed pattern. Varicose veins and spider veins differ, largely because varicose veins can lead to more serious health problems.

If your varicose veins are left untreated, dangers can occur such as:

Leg swelling– As pressure builds up in the veins, fluid from the blood can leak into the surrounding tissues, causing swelling.

Skin Ulcers– Varicose veins can cause swelling, which over time can result in skin changes. Because of this, skin can become less likely to heal even from minor injuries.

Deep Vein Thrombosis– Deep vein thrombosis is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical treatment. The leg can be swollen, warm, and painful. There is a risk in that part of the blood clot may break off and move into the lungs, causing a life threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.

Lymphedema– Lymphedema can occur when lymph builds up in your body’s soft tissues. Lymph is a fluid that contains white blood cells that defend against germs. Blockage of the lymphatic vessels leads to fluid retention.

Fortunately, symptoms can be relieved and complications can be prevented through a variety of treatment options today. At The Vein Centre, we offer minimally invasive procedures that eliminate unsightly, uncomfortable veins without a major disruption to your daily schedule. To learn more about your treatment options, contact The Vein Centre today at 615-269-9007.

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