2, 10, 2014

Varicose Veins and Heart Disease

2021-11-04T14:08:22-07:00

Are varicose veins associated with heart problems?

Varicose veins are not associated with heart disease and do not indicate a problem with the heart.  With varicose veins and venous insufficiency, the vein valves are weak and leaky. But, only the valves in the leg veins are affected. These valves are different than heart valves.  Additionally, heart disease healthy_and_diseased_valvesoften refers to problems with the arteries of the heart or the heart muscle itself, not veins. In sum, if you have varicose veins, it does not mean that you are more likely to have problems with the heart.

Varicose Veins and Heart Disease2021-11-04T14:08:22-07:00

25, 8, 2014

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins #2: Cellulitis

2021-11-13T14:43:46-08:00

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins and Venous Insufficiency #2: Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and tissues beneath the skin. Cellulitis infections can occur in the legs of people with untreated varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.  The reason for this is chronic venous insufficiency causes inflammation within the skin and underlying tissues. This inflammatory process causes the skin to become firm, eczema-like, dry, itchy, and fragile. Healthy skin acts as a barrier to bacteria, preventing infections. But, in chronic venous insufficiency, the skin is fragile and this barrier is susceptible to bacterial infections, that can enter the tissues through cracks or breakages within the skin.  In chronic venous insufficiency, the skin around the ankles is most affected and infections can begin here.

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins and Venous Insufficiency Cellulitis

Cellulitis usually begins as a small area of pain and redness on the skin. This area spreads to surrounding tissues, resulting in the typical signs of inflammation such as redness, swelling, warmth, and pain.  Fever and chills may develop and the redness will spread affecting more of the leg. It is treated with antibiotics. If you believe you have signs of cellulitis, you need to contact your doctor right away as untreated cellulitis can spread rapidly.

Varicose Veins Improve Skin Condition

This complication can be avoided by treating the varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency, which will, in turn, reduce inflammation and improve the skin condition.  Practicing good skin hygiene is important. Keep your skin moisturized so that it doesn’t flake or crack easily. If the skin is not broken or leaking fluid but is inflamed, your doctor may recommend an anti-itch cream, such as one containing hydrocortisone; a cream containing zinc oxide to protect the skin; or an antifungal cream to prevent fungal infections.

Skin that is leaking fluid is treated with wet compresses. If you have ulcers on your legs, your doctor will show you how to apply layered compression bandages to protect the skin and maintain blood flow.

 

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins #2: Cellulitis2021-11-13T14:43:46-08:00

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins #1: Phlebitis

2021-11-04T15:28:12-07:00

What Possible Complications Can Occur From Untreated Varicose Veins?

Over time, complications can develop from untreated veins. These include:

  • Superficial phlebitis

    stp

    A superficial thrombophlebitis (also known as STP) refers to a blood clot that has formed within the vein causing it to become painful and inflamed. The overlying skin becomes red, hot, and painful to touch. The blood clot forms as a complication of varicose veins, because the blood is not circulating well in varicose veins.

  • Skin discoloration and eczema around the ankle
  • Skin sores or ulcers usually near the ankle
  • Burst or hemorrhaged vein
  • Chronic venous insufficiency
  • Infection of the skin, or cellulitis

This blog post will discuss phlebitis. Phlebitis refers to the painful swelling and inflammation within a vein, usually a varicose vein.  A thrombophlebitis is swelling and inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot. A phlebitis is common with varicose veins, and thrombophlebitis less common but still a potential complication from untreated varicose veins.  A thrombophlebitis refers to a blood clot that has formed within the vein causing it to become painful and inflamed. The overlying skin becomes red, hot, and painful to touch.

The blood clot forms because the blood is not circulating well in varicose veins. The blood is stagnant in varicose veins and is more likely to form clots. When blood clots are formed within varicose veins, this is called superficial thrombophlebitis (since varicose veins sit near the skin surface).  This is often referred to as an STP.

The following symptoms are often associated with thrombophlebitis:

  • Inflammation (swelling) in the part of the body affected
  • Pain in the part of the body affected
  • skin redness (not always present)
  • Warmth and tenderness over the vein

Thrombophlebitis of varicose veins can be avoided by wearing compression stockings daily (prevents pooling of blood), leg elevation, staying active and treating the varicose veins.  If you think you have phlebitis, you should see a doctor. An ultrasound examination is may be necessary.

Complications of Untreated Varicose Veins #1: Phlebitis2021-11-04T15:28:12-07:00

Changing Insurance Requirements for Varicose Vein Treatment

2021-11-04T16:01:35-07:00
compressrx-business

Compression stockings and socks are an important part of the regimen for the treatment of varicose veins. Insurance will require that they are used for 6-12 weeks prior to approving and paying for varicose vein treatment. The good news is that compression socks and stockings are available now in a wide variety of fashion styles and colors. Because new styles of compression socks are more fashion-friendly, you can integrate medical therapy into your wardrobe for work and casual attire. Fashion compression can be found at compressrx.com.

We have noticed a trend over the past year regarding insurance coverage for varicose veins; Insurance is increasingly becoming stricter with its policies for varicose vein coverage. Insurance policies vary from person to person regarding whether or not their policy will cover the actual vein treatment (office visits, diagnostic ultrasound examinations, and consultations are typically covered benefits by most).  Most insurance types now require that an individual has worn and tried medical-grade compression for over 3 months before they can be considered for varicose vein treatment. Specifically, the patient has to have been using medical-grade compression for 3-months or longer and still has not had improvement in symptoms.  The exceptions are Medicare and Anthem require only a six-week trial of compression. Compression socks and stockings are part of conservative management for vein conditions.  Medical grade compression socks are stronger than over-the-counter socks and may require a prescription. Because your insurance may require 3 months of wearing compression socks/stockings before they will pay for your medical vein procedure, you should start wearing them as soon as possible and document it. For example, ask your primary care physician for a prescription. Keep your receipts for the purchase, as sometimes insurance requires proof of when you started using compression. Insurance usually does not cover compression stockings but a flexible health savings account can typically be used. Compression stockings should be used as a trial of conservative treatment in addition to leg elevation, exercise, weight loss, and NSAIDs. We are happy to answer questions about insurance coverage for vein procedures. Please call us at 858-550-0330.

Changing Insurance Requirements for Varicose Vein Treatment2021-11-04T16:01:35-07:00

What is a Superficial Thrombophlebitis?

2022-01-03T12:52:21-08:00

A thrombophlebitis is swelling and inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot. There are two main types of thrombophlebitits: deep venous thrombosis (affects deeper, larger veins) and superficial thrombophlebitis (affects veins near the skin surface).  This is often referred to as an STP.

The following symptoms are often associated with thrombophlebitis:

  • Inflammation (swelling) in the part of the body affected
  • Pain in the part of the body affected
  • skin redness (not always present)
  • Warmth and tenderness over the vein

The following increase your chances for thrombophlebitis:

  • Being hospitalized for major surgery or with a major illness
  • Disorders that make you more likely to develop blood clots
  • Sitting for a long period of time (such as on a long airplane trip)
  • Varicose veins

An STP is a common complication of varicose veins. But, it can also indicate an underlying problem with blood clotting.  In some cases, there may also be a concurrent blood clot in other veins, such as the deep veins (DVT) which can be serious. For this reason, a duplex ultrasound examination is used to look at the deep veins and other veins not visible to the naked eye for the presence of blood clots.

If it is localized to a small surface vein, it can usually be treated with aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and inflammation, compression stockings, and cold/warm packs to also reduce inflammation and discomfort. The discomfort is usually improved within 6 weeks but it can take a few months to resolve.

If the superficial thrombophlebitis is extensive or if it appears to be ‘migrating’ up the leg, a blood thinner may be necessary.  You should see your doctor if you develop an STP.

stp

A thrombophlebitis is swelling and inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot. This patient has superficial thrombophlebitis, which is a blood clot in the superficial, surface veins. You can see redness in the inner thigh of this patient, which is caused by the inflammation and swelling from the blood clot. It can be very painful. You should see your doctor for superficial thrombophlebitis.

 

What is a Superficial Thrombophlebitis?2022-01-03T12:52:21-08:00

31, 7, 2014

Is Darkening of the Skin A Sign of Venous Disease?

2021-11-04T15:16:17-07:00
cvi3

When the skin becomes darker around the ankles, it may indicate underlying venous insufficiency. If you notice that your skin around the ankles changes color, you should see your doctor. Venous insufficiency can be diagnosed with ultrasound scanning by specialists.

Is Darkening of the Skin A Sign of Venous Disease? Yes.   Skin discoloration, also referred to as skin hyperpigmentation or venous stasis, describes the darkening of the skin as a result of venous insufficiency.    This is most frequently cause by venous reflux, an underlying condition that can be treated. When skin changes like these are present, the condition is termed chronic venous insufficiency.  Over time, the skin condition may worsen and the skin may become darker, firm to touch, scaly and itchy, and the skin may break down causing a venous leg ulcer.  It usually occurs around the ankles.  

Is Darkening of the Skin A Sign of Venous Disease?2021-11-04T15:16:17-07:00

Should I Wear Compression When I Travel to Prevent a DVT?

2021-11-05T13:04:03-07:00

Should I Wear Compression When I Travel to Prevent a DVT?

travel

Using compression stockings during travel can reduce the risk of developing a flight-related deep venous thrombosis (DVT).

Yes. Compression stockings are great to use during air travel and long trips where you will be sitting for long periods of time. When you sit for long periods of time you are more at risk of blood clots and swelling. Compression stockings can reduce your risks and prevent swelling.  Ask your doctor the strength that is recommended for you.

Should I Wear Compression When I Travel to Prevent a DVT?2021-11-05T13:04:03-07:00

Why Compression Socks?

2014-07-30T16:21:32-07:00
Meb_Keflezighi

Olympic champion and Boston Marathon winner, Meb Keflezighi wears CEP compression socks while running. CEP compression socks can be found at compressrx.com.

Graduated compression stockings apply external pressure to your legs reducing venous pressure. Graduated compression stockings are great to use if your want to increase circulation, support you leg veins, and want to reduce uncomfortable leg symptoms such as swelling, tired and achy feeling legs.

They are important in the conservative management of varicose veins to reduce symptoms. They are also used after any type of vein treatment to improve the effectiveness of treatment, to reduce bruising and swelling, and for comfort.

Anyone can benefit from compression stockings. Compression stockings are great for relieving ones symptoms when sitting, standing or moving around for long periods of time. They are also great for professionals such as nurses, hairdressers, desk workers, and everyone in between.

Athletes wear compression stockings too.  There is some evidence that medical compression helps to reduce muscle fatigue and improves muscle recovery.  But, not all compression socks are made equal.  They should be medical graduated compression, like CEP socks by Mediven. These are the socks preferred by Olympic champion and Boston Marathon winner, Meb Keflezighi wears CEP compression socks while running.   Find medical CEP compression socks at compressrx.com.

 

Why Compression Socks?2014-07-30T16:21:32-07:00

Laser and Radiofrequency Vein Treatments

2021-11-04T20:20:33-07:00

What is the difference between laser and radiofrequency procedures for varicose veins?

Both laser and radiofrequency ablation techniques are used as an alternative to surgery for the treatment of varicose veins and underlying venous insufficiency.  The concept behind both laser and radiofrequency treatments is that an energy source is used to heat the vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. Over time, the treated veins will dissolve. This is offered as an alternative to surgical removal of the veins. The basic difference between the two, are the types of energy sources used.

Laser vein treatment, also known as laser ablation or endovenous laser ablation therapy (EVLT or EVLA) utilizes laser energy to heat the vein.

Radiofrequency vein treatment, also known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), or the Venefit procedure (previously known as VNUS Closure) utilizes radiofrequency energy to heat the vein.

Both procedures are used to treat the small, great or anterior saphenous veins.

Either procedure involves making a tiny incision the size of a grain of rice on the skin, and a narrow catheter is inserted into the vein. The machine applies either laser or radiofrequency energy to the vein interior, an action that heats the vein and seals it closed.

Unlike traditional surgery, this new minimally invasive procedure takes about 30 minutes to perform and patients can walk out of the office afterward.

While both are effective options for vein treatment, we prefer radio-frequency ablation over laser because it has been proven to be more comfortable than laser yet equally effective. It is also our experience that there is less bruising,  pain, and quicker recovery associated with radio-frequency closure of the veins.

Slide23

Laser vein treatment, also known as laser ablation or endovenous laser ablation therapy (EVLT or EVLA) utilizes laser energy to heat the vein.
Radiofrequency vein treatment, also known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), or the Venefit procedure (previously known as VNUS Closure) utilizes radiofrequency energy to heat the vein.

Slide24

The radiofrequency catheter is inserted inside the vein. Radiofrequency energy then heats the vein causing it to collapse and seal shut. We prefer radiofrequency over laser vein treatment because we find that it is more comfortable for the patient with less bruising.

Remember, that more than one treatment type is often needed such as radiofrequency of the saphenous vein + sclerotherapy of superficial branches. Talk to your doctor to find out which is best for you or schedule a consultation at 858-550-0330.

 

Laser and Radiofrequency Vein Treatments2021-11-04T20:20:33-07:00

What is Stasis Dermatitis?

2021-11-05T13:05:00-07:00

Stasis dermatitis or venous stasis dermatitis is a change in the skin that occur when blood collects (pools) in the veins of the lower leg. ‘Stasis’ refers to pooling of the blood in the lower legs from venous insufficiency, and ‘dermatitis’ refers to the inflammation and related skin changes. Because of the inflammation, the skin around the ankles is usually itchy and discolored.

At first, the skin of the ankles and lower legs may look thin or tissue-like. You may slowly get brown stains on the skin.

The skin may become irritated or crack if you scratch it. It may also become red or swollen, crusted, or weepy.

Over time, some skin changes become permanent:

  • Thickening and hardening of the skin on the legs and ankles (lipodermatosclerosis)
  • A bumpy or cobblestone appearance of the skin
  • Dark brown color
Stasis Dermatitis with Ulceration

Chronic venous insufficiency over time can lead to skin changes and eventually ulceration. This image demonstrates stasis dermatitis (also known as venous dermatitis). Stasis dermatitis refers to the skin changes including skin discoloration around the ankles, dry itchy skin that can be thin, and it may eventually break down to cause an ulceration. You need to see a doctor if these signs are present.

Skin sores (ulcers) may develop (called a venous ulcer or stasis ulcer). These most often form on the inside of the ankle.  For this reason, whenever stasis dermatitis or skin changes are noticed around the ankle, you should see your doctor or vein specialist to stop the progression of venous insufficiency and prevent the skin from forming an ulceration.

  

 

What is Stasis Dermatitis?2021-11-05T13:05:00-07:00
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CONTACT INFORMATION

La Jolla/UTC

Vista

Patient Privacy Practices

Privacy Policy

Hippa Privacy Practices
HIPAAOneTM Certified Seal 2

Use the search features below to find articles and insights for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT SAN DIEGO

La Jolla/ UTC

North County San Diego/ Vista — Endovascular Center
Now Open! Call/Text for Appointments

© Copyright 2010-2024, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

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