Iron’s Role in Venous Health

Posted on March 2, 2016February 24, 2016 by floridav

Most of us grew up listening to the chiding of our parents to eat our spinach, collards, or other green leafy vegetables. While most humans are carnivores, the balance required for staying healthy includes consumption of fruits and vegetables that contain the necessary vitamins and minerals. The experts at Orlando vein center, Florida Vein Care, explain why nutrition is so important to maintaining your vein health.

Many people are unaware on how important eating a well-balanced diet is to keeping their circulatory system working in tip-top shape. Dark green leafy vegetables contain high quantities of iron and vitamin K. Both are important factors to maintaining a healthy circulatory system. Turns out our parents were right.

Without subjecting you to a boring chemistry lesson, it is suffice it to say that hemoglobin is a protein in our red blood cells comprised of several components (globulin chains), but one of the most important elements within is the iron atom. The chemical composition of iron gives it the distinct ability to transport oxygen and deliver it to the cells, tissues, etc. as needed. Without oxygen, the cells cannot produce the energy required for us to live. Conversely, iron also has the ability to help with the removal of carbon dioxide and other waste produced in the cells. It’s quite a versatile element.

Anemia can result if iron levels in the blood dip down too low. You do not have to be diagnosed with anemia to experience issues with your circulatory system. If your iron level is not appropriate, the odds are that your blood it isn’t circulating properly because the cell’s production of energy is reduced due to a sluggish oxygen delivery system. Improper circulation weakens the valves in the vein walls and spider and varicose veins can develop. Low iron levels and anemia can have detrimental effects on all aspects of body function, including cognitive function.

So, what causes us to lose iron in our blood? Our red blood cells usually live for two to three months. When they die, our liver and spleen retrieve the iron released and send it to the bone marrow where it is stored and released later back into the blood by the liver. A small portion of iron is lost in this normal process. Bleeding causes the largest loss of iron and women of reproductive years lose more than women older or younger. This factor, once again, lends credence to varicose veins occurring more often in women than in men.

Regular check-ups and blood work can help identify iron deficiency before it affects your circulatory system. The entire staff at our Orlando vein center is here to answer any questions you may have about vein health or symptoms you may be experiencing. Call Florida Vein Care today at 407-805-5959, or complete our online contact form.

The Top 4 Causes of Varicose Veins

Posted on February 24, 2016 by floridav

Forget all the old wive’s tales you may have heard over the years about what causes varicose veins. The Orlando vein health experts at Florida Vein Care want to share with you the four top causes of varicose veins:

Genetics. Better thank Mom and Dad. Yes, genetics have a strong role in the development of varicose veins. Studies have indicated that if both of your parents suffer from varicose veins, you have a much higher risk of developing them. Some studies suggest the risk increases to almost 90%. Women have a significantly increased risk over men.

Pregnancy. The obvious tie to women is that pregnancy can cause varicose veins. The growth of the baby causes an increase in blood volume in the mother, and the position of the baby in the pelvic region can cause narrowing of blood vessels. Add gravity into the mix, and the veins simply can’t keep up with the demand for blood flow, which can cause valves to allow a backflow of blood which results in varicosities. Many women indicate that they never experienced problems with varicose veins until they became pregnant.

Profession: The people who stand or walk throughout the day, such as hairdressers, teachers, and nurses are at a greater risk of developing varicose and spider veins. The constant standing causes the blood to pool, increasing the pressure on vein walls, which can damage the valves.

Lifestyle. This includes not only your occupation, but how much and what kind of exercise you get. There is a delicate balance to be struck in not spending too much time on your feet or exercising to an extreme. Sedentary individuals tend to have more problems with varicose veins. However, people who exercise too hard also run the risk of developing them. If your exercise regime includes standing for long periods of time or pounding against the pavement, you increase the risk of negatively impacting your vein health.

If you think you’ve been noticing any of the symptoms of spider or varicose veins and can relate to one or more of these risk factors above, it’s time to reach out and schedule an appointment to check on your vein health. Orlando vein health is very important to Dr. Bragg and the staff at Florida Vein Care and Cosmetic Center. Call now to schedule an appointment at 407-805-5959, or contact them online.

Does This Florida Cold Affect Vein Health?

Posted on February 16, 2016 by floridav

Let’s face it; the 2016 Florida winter has had longer cold snaps than we’ve experienced in many years. The winds seem to be more blustery and biting, and many of us have no desire to venture outside for long periods of time. There are those who absolutely love this temporary change in the thermometer but don’t understand why they feel different. Many start to notice the appearance of spider or varicose veins at this time of the year. If you fall into this category, then the staff at our Orlando vein clinic has the answers you seek.

Cold weather causes our blood vessels to constrict which reduces blood flow throughout the body and, of course, to the heart. Reduction in blood flow consequently reduces the amount of oxygen circulating through your body and results in the heart having to work harder. The risk of developing spider or varicose veins is increased when these cold weather events occur and the circulatory system is negatively impacted.

Usually compounding the effect of colder weather is accompanying lethargy. Generally, we don’t exercise as much during the winter months. We seem to opt for binge watching television shows, catching up on reading, and enjoying time by the fireplace. Weight gain is more likely to happen during this time of the year and our muscles tend to weaken due as a result of the couch potato status. Those additional pounds, even just a few, add stress to the circulatory system and further increase the risk of developing spider or varicose veins.

There are things that you can do to reduce the possibility of developing spider veins or varicosities during the winter.

Start your day by doing slow and easy stretches to help your muscles get moving.
Watch your dietary intake and be sure to eat foods high in fiber to aid in circulation.
Massage your legs and ankles, or even better, go for regular massages to relax muscles and improve blood flow.
Whenever possible, elevate your legs above your heart level for 30 minutes or more.
Reduce stress wherever possible, and employ deep breathing techniques to improve oxygen flow.

If you are worried about the appearance of spider or varicose veins and don’t know what your options are, please contact our Orlando vein clinic and come in for a consult with our expert staff. Your vein health should not be taken for granted. Call Florida Vein Care today at 407-805-8989, or complete a contact form online.

Modern Technology Helps to Relieve Patients of Varicose Vein Pain

Posted on February 5, 2016September 6, 2016 by floridav

For many patients afflicted by varicose veins, the thought of seeking treatment is a scary proposition. The stories shared by older relatives and friends of varicose vein treatments in the past were very painful and required lengthy periods of recuperation, which prevented them from seeking relief from the symptoms they experienced. The process of surgical removal of the vein, “vein stripping”, or “phlebectomy” was a very common and invasive procedure used in the not too distant past. During the procedure, the diseased vein was tied off and removed from the leg, either through an incision in the groin or behind the knee, or both. This treatment required general anesthesia and is very rarely performed nowadays. The good news is that modern technology has advanced the development of treatments in the last few years, as explained by Orlando vein center.

Most non-invasive courses of intervention included the wearing of compression stockings combined with frequent elevation of the legs to reduce symptoms. Prescription anti-inflammatory drugs are still sometimes prescribed to ease symptoms.

Sclerotherapy, another treatment option, combines ultrasound guidance to the superficial diseased veins that are then typically injected with a liquid or foam that promotes the collapse of the veins, which are ultimately reabsorbed by the body.

Minimally-invasive treatment options also include radio-wave or radio-frequency ablation of the superficial vein. Guided through a small catheter, the radio-wave energy is introduced through a small incision in the affected vein, resulting in the vein being sealed off through the heat generated. Endovenous laser therapy is also a form of ablation. However, as its name suggests, a laser pulse is used to generate the heat required to seal off the damaged vein.

With sclerotherapy, radio-frequency, and endovenous laser therapy, the vein is closed off then the body adjusts and reroutes the blood supply to nearby vessels. There is no anesthesia required for these procedures other than a minor injection of a numbing agent, usually lidocaine, at the procedure site or sites. Depending on the severity, a mild sedative might be prescribed. Patients can usually return to normal activity immediately after any of the above minimally invasive procedures. Some patients, though rare, have reported experiencing minimal bruising, swelling, or scarring.

Patients are encouraged to discuss varicose vein treatment options with their physician at an Orlando vein care center to determine the right option for them. Please contact the expert staff at Florida Vein Care and Cosmetic Center at (407) 805-8989, and allow us to help you make an informed decision when selecting the varicose vein treatment that is right for you. You deserve to live symptom-free and to have health and beauty restored to your legs.

Just How Important is the Sclerosing Agent Anyway?

Posted on February 2, 2016 by floridav

It’s common for the staff at our Orlando vein center to hear people ask “Do you still do those saline injections for spider veins?” Typically, this question is followed by comments about how painful the saline injections are and how they had to lay down for days after the treatment to ensure proper results. One of the reasons Florida Vein Care participates in health fairs, physician-led community lectures, and trade shows is to educate the public on contemporary vein treatments available today. The next physician-led community lecture is Wed. Feb. 17th at the Marks St. Senior Center, led by Dr. Bragg.

Today, we consider saline injections “old school”, although the actual procedure known as sclerotherapy remains the gold standard. Why not saline anymore? It’s simple: technology has provided more effective and advanced sclerosing agents that perform better than saline with little or no discomfort to the patient.

When searching for a vein treatment practice, it’s important to ask: “What solution do you use for sclerotherapy?” If a practice says they use saline, chances are they don’t do a lot of sclerotherapy. Saline is inexpensive and has a long shelf life if preserved, so some practices out there will offer saline sclerotherapy to their clients as a convenience more than a routine procedure.

What sclerosing solution should you look for? At Florida Vein Care & Cosmetic Center, we use Sotradecol & Polidocanol. Both are specifically compounded to act as a vein “sealant” through sclerotherapy injections. Both Sotradecol and Polidocanol provide superior results with sclerotherapy and without the painful burn or sting of saline. Hemosiderin staining, a common side effect of saline injections, is also mitigated with the use of Sotradecol and Polidocanol.

The cost of these agents is much greater than saline as they are limited in shelf life and are custom compounded for sclerotherapy. This is why you will not see Florida Vein Care & Cosmetic Center offering low-cost sclerotherapy sessions like you may find on local coupon service sites. (Buyer beware when a sclerotherapy deal is too good to be true; it usually is!) When shopping for a sclerotherapy provider, it’s important to find out:

Do they screen clients for venous insufficiency? If you are not screened for leaky vein valves, your spider and varicose veins will come right back. Find out if they do a Doppler exam to rule out venous insufficiency first.
What sclerosing agent does the practice use to inject your veins? Look for superior agents such as Polidocanol and Sotradecol for all the reasons stated above.
Who is performing the sclerotherapy & what certifications do they have? Sclerotherapy should always be performed by an MD, P.A.-C, or an ARNP.
How long have they been practicing in the specialty of phlebology & are the injectors members of the American Academy of Phlebology?
Does the practice prescribe graduated compression therapy after treatment? Any practice who doesn’t send you home in graduated compression stockings cannot be taken seriously as a vein treatment center.

At our Orlando vein center, Medical Director, Richard Bragg, MD, is Central Florida’s own expert on sclerotherapy and venous disease/treatment. Dr. Bragg has been practicing for more than 17 years and trains other physicians on endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), the latest innovation in varicose vein treatment. Madge Geohagen P.A.-C is his assistant, and she has more than 16 years experience as a sclerotherapy injector. “I have been having sclerotherapy treatments for years, and it wasn’t until I found Madge that I started to see real results! I recommend Madge to anyone with spider veins; she’s the best!”-Elizabeth, FVC client.

We welcome you to come to Dr. Bragg’s lecture at Mark’s Street Senior Center on Wednesday, Feb. 17th at 10 a.m. This event is free to the public. RSVP to Judy Vaughan, Florida Vein Care & Cosmetic Center Director: (407)805-8989 or email: [email protected]

The Difference Between Spider & Varicose Veins

Posted on January 28, 2016July 25, 2018 by floridav

The difference between spider veins and varicose veins

A very common question that is often asked of the staff at our Orlando vein center is whether or not spider veins are different from varicose veins and if they should be considered a serious problem. The answer is really not as complicated as you might think.

The cause of spider veins occurs when the normal circulation of blood in the small veins that lie closest to the skin’s surface is interrupted or becomes less efficient as a result of injury, hormonal changes, exposure to the sun, or weight gain. Most often, patients report the appearance of tiny lines that are blue or purple (sometimes red) lying smoothly in the skin. Some report that these lines are itchy or that they cause a burning sensation. Others report no pain but are concerned about their unsightly appearance. Spider veins are usually pencil thin (less than three millimeters in diameter), but a large web can make the skin actually look bruised. Spider veins are frequently the first sign of the potential for more serious vein health issues headed your way.

Varicose veins may appear to be rope-like, raised, and twisted. Some describe them as bulges in the skin. Discoloration is not as obvious as they are with spider veins because they occur in veins that are not close to the skin. When the valves within the veins are not facilitating the flow of blood to the heart efficiently, blood flow is drastically reduced. Backward seepage of this blood collects and pools. As the pooling of blood enlarges, swelling of the vein then manifests as that crooked or web-like pattern across the affected area of skin. The symptoms of varicose veins can include swelling of the ankles and feet, itchiness, achiness, a heavy feeling, and deep pain.

It is important to note that varicose veins can occur so deep within the legs that there are no visible symptoms on the skin’s surface. Trust your instincts. If your legs aren’t looking or feeling quite right, it’s time to see a vein specialist. The staff at our Orlando vein center will guide you through evaluation, diagnosis, and developing a treatment plan that’s just right for you. Remember that evaluation and diagnosis of spider and/or varicose veins are non-invasive and causes no discomfort. You have nothing to lose and better venous health to gain. Call now to schedule an appointment 407-805-8989 at Florida Vein Care, or to visit us online, click here.

5 Professions That Can Contribute to Varicose Veins

Posted on January 21, 2016September 6, 2016 by floridav

You try your best to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle, but did you know that your profession may be a contributing factor to the development of varicose veins? In our many years of seeing patients as the premier vein clinic in Orlando, there seems to be a common thread that we have observed in many of our patients who come to us suffering from the symptoms of varicose veins. The commonality: these folks spend inordinate amounts of time standing while performing their job duties.

Waiters/Waitresses who spend their entire shift standing, walking, and bending are at high risk for developing varicose veins. Restaurant floors are hard and punishing even while wearing the proper footwear. In the restaurant industry, chefs and line cooks are also always on their feet. In the kitchen area, there are frequently rubber mats placed in an attempt to cushion the work area and to protect people from nasty spills. Unfortunately, this attempt to soften the resistance against the feet is not tremendously helpful.
Hairdressers also submit their lower extremities to the brutality of constant standing combined with little mobility.
Hospitality Industry workers in Central Florida spend a lot of time on their feet in theme parks, hotels, and venues. Standing stationery is very problematic for maintaining good vein health.
Nurses and Health Care Technicians are always on the go from one patient to the next. Hard floors are a contributing factor to the negative impact on the legs.
Teachers are on their feet all day long. Whether standing in the front of the classroom or walking amongst their students to check work, the wear and tear on their legs, ankles, and feet will take a toll.

Exactly why do these professions seem to frequently suffer from varicose veins? In a word: gravity. The blood that circulates from our legs back to our heart fights a constant uphill battle. Valves within the veins are the controls of blood return to the heart. The more we stand, the greater the pull of gravity on those valves. If those valves are continually fighting gravity to return blood to the heart, those veins can weaken from overuse. As a result, blood slips (leaks) back down towards the feet and will begin to pool.

When the valves continue to malfunction and leakage continue, the vein walls will start to swell and, eventually, the signs and symptoms of varicose veins will become apparent. Wearing support hose and proper footwear can be helpful but are in no way to be confused with a “cure” for varicosities. You should seek medical advice. We take your vein health very seriously here at our premier vein clinic in Orlando. Visit us online, or call today to set up your consultation at 407-805-8989. Don’t be at the mercy of gravity.

Weight Gain and Venous Disease

Posted on January 14, 2016September 6, 2016 by floridav

The holidays are over, and many Americans are noticing that their clothing is fitting just a bit tighter and that they are feeling a little bit listless. While studies show that the actual weight gained varies from just a pound to as high as ten depending on your body structure, a single pound can be as harmful as a 10-pound gain to a larger individual. After the holidays, the staff at Florida Vein Care Center sees an uptick in calls from people experiencing leg swelling, itchiness, achiness, pain, and a heavy feeling. Is there a correlation between the weight gain and the leg symptoms? There may indeed be, and it’s time to find out by researching an Orlando vein center.

Gaining weight and carrying extra weight can trigger many negative symptoms to occur in our bodies which, ultimately, result in significant health issues at any age. An increase in cholesterol levels, which can cause heart disease and an increased risk of stroke, are two of the biggest issues cause by increased weight. Obesity is often found to be the source of high blood pressure; another contributing factor to stroke and heart disease. Many folks are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after years of uncontrolled weight gain.

Florida Vein Care Center is concerned with a serious issue most people don’t think about. Weight gain and obesity can be the foundation for grave circulation issues and organ health throughout the body. The extra weight being supported on your frame causes damage to the valves in the vein walls, which can result in venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and blood clots.

Reflux is the term used to define the backflow of blood through leaky veins. Venous disease is nothing to take lightly. Symptoms of varicose veins can include swelling, itchiness, achiness, fatigue, skin ulcerations, and pain. As a consequence of varicose veins, people afflicted with them tend to avoid exercise and walking at all costs because of the pain experienced. It becomes quite a vicious circle. Diet alone will not help the weight come off.

When varicose veins are properly treated, the symptoms experienced can virtually disappear and the impetus to exercise should increase with the reduction in pain and swelling. A return to even moderate exercise will help to promote weight loss and increase your overall health. Please contact Florida Vein Care Center at 407-805-8989 if you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of varicose veins, or you can also browse the rest of our Orlando vein center website. Dr. Bragg and his staff are here to guide you on the road to better vein health.

Varicose Veins are Not Just Found on the Legs

Posted on January 7, 2016December 21, 2015 by floridav

For most people, the discussion of varicose veins in Orlando conjures up a disturbing visual of blue-purplish, gnarled bulges and swelling of the legs. While it’s true that the most severe cases of varicose veins occur in the lower extremities, they can occur in many other locations throughout the body.

Many people have visible varicose veins on their eyes and face. Around the eye area, especially the lower and upper lid, there is little body fat and the veins lie close to the surface. These veins may be large or small and may be dilated more than others in the body. Smaller veins on the face may appear as little wisp-like threads and are purplish, or red (or a combination of both) in color. These surface capillaries may intensify or deepen in color when the person becomes over-heated. Patients displeased with their appearance often seek treatment to improve looks. Laser therapy and electrolysis are two of the most appropriate ways to resolve these issues.

The appearance of varicosities on the hands, arms, or cleavage area is not as uncommon as one would think. The veins lie closer to the surface of the skin in the hands and can become more visible as we age and our skin changes. People who work out or who have low body fat also notice the visibility of varicose veins in their hands and upper arms from strenuous exercise. Women who have undergone breast augmentation procedures have increased their odds in developing varicose veins in the cleavage and breast area. All of these locations where varicose veins can appear are more of a cosmetic nuisance than medically relevant as they very rarely develop into deep vein thrombosis.

Hemorrhoids. Yes, those painful, swollen irritations on the rump are actually varicose veins in and around the anus. Straining, constipation, diarrhea, pregnancy, and obesity are the leading causes of hemorrhoids in patients. It is not uncommon for them to be very painful and for bleeding to occur. There are many over-the-counter treatments that are effective in relieving the symptoms associated with hemorrhoids. In extreme cases, hemorrhoids can result in thrombosis that will require medical intervention.

Don’t self-diagnose. If you suspect you suffer from this affliction, seek the advice of a physician who can make an accurate diagnosis and help you determine if treatment is necessary for your varicose veins in Orlando. Dr. Bragg is the best and most experienced vein care doctor in the Central Florida area. Make your appointment today at 407-805-8989, or contact Florida Vein Care online.

Varicose Veins & Pain

Posted on December 28, 2015December 21, 2015 by floridav

Not only do spider and varicose veins mar our bodies with their unsightly redness, swelling, and bluish bulges, but they can, and frequently do, cause an immeasurable amount of discomfort and excruciating pain. Many people we see in our vein clinic in Orlando describe the fatigue, achiness, and pain caused by varicose veins by explaining that it feels like the agony emanates from deep within the body, almost as if generated in their bones.

It’s no wonder that the pain is described this way. The weakening of the valves that control the flow of blood to the heart are malfunctioning to the extent that some of the blood slides backwards and pools behind the valve. As the pooling continues, the vein stretches to accommodate the buildup. The pooling blood is not reabsorbed and eventually there is a loss in elasticity in the veins. It is at this point that the veins begin to bulge, resulting in the varicose vein. The problem originates deep under the skin’s surface.

There are different schools of thought on what can help alleviate the pain associated with varicosity. Some believe that a holistic approach can be beneficial in reducing the swelling and pain. Witch Hazel is said to have a strengthening effect on blood vessels. When soaked on cotton balls and rubbed over the affected areas several times a day, some patients have reported relief of symptoms.

Many physicians are acknowledging the positive impact that massage therapy has in the management of many health issues; varicose veins are on that list. Massage helps improve circulation which reduces swelling and relieves discomfort. Some patients note improvement in skin appearance when they massage with a mixture of olive oil and Vitamin E. Others believe that in using grape seed oil for massage, its anti-inflammatory properties will help to strengthen blood vessels which should ease the level of pain.

The consumption of apple cider vinegar is said to have restorative properties when diluted in a glass of water. Another trend is to massage it in undiluted form onto the affected areas to alleviate tenderness in the area.

If you seek permanent relief from the swelling, discoloration, and pain of varicose veins, the staff at vein clinic in Orlando, Florida Vein Care, is here to accurately assess and diagnose the status of your vein health. They offer a variety of treatment options and they will help you find the one that is right for you. Get on the path to pain-free living. Call 407-805-8989 to schedule your consultation, or contact them online.

The difference between spider veins and varicose veins

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