Long journeys may favour leg swelling, discomfort from varicose veins, superficial phlebitis or, in predisposed people, deep vein thrombosis. We explain how to reduce the risk and when to consult a vascular surgeon before or after travelling.
Do your legs swell at the end of the day? Lower-limb oedema may be related to venous insufficiency, varicose veins, lymphoedema, or the after-effects of thrombosis. We explain the causes, consequences, management, and when to seek medical advice.
Before deciding on treatment for visible varicose veins in summer, venous Doppler ultrasound helps study circulation, detect reflux and plan each case properly.
When it is advisable to assess leg heaviness, swelling or cramps that worsen in the heat with venous Doppler ultrasound.
Lipedema is a chronic disease of adipose tissue that can cause pain, heaviness, frequent bruising and a disproportionate increase in leg volume. We explain how to recognize it and when to seek medical advice.
Radiofrequency is a minimally invasive technique for treating selected cases of venous insufficiency. We explain when it may be indicated and why Doppler ultrasound is essential.
Some clinics present T.R.A.P. or regenerative phlebotherapy as a technique capable of repairing diseased veins and restoring their function. We explain what has really been demonstrated, why Doppler ultrasound is essential, and which warning signs should lead you to seek a second opinion before paying.
Venous Doppler ultrasound allows the veins to be seen and blood flow through them to be assessed. In this article we explain what it investigates, how it is performed, and why it is so important before deciding on varicose vein treatment.
Sclerotherapy consists of injecting an irritant drug into the thread vein, followed by the application of external compression (compression stocking) to achieve closure. This point is very important, since correct compression therapy increases the likelihood of success and reduces the chance of side effects.
The key breakthrough has been a method that causes controlled vein closure, similar to laser or radiofrequency, but without the use of heat. Without heat, there is no need to inject anaesthetic fluid around the vein to protect the surrounding tissues. This means fewer needle punctures and a simpler experience for the patient.
This technique, which seals the treated vein with a medical-grade adhesive, is distributed worldwide by the multinational company Medtronic® and is known as VenaSeal®.