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.

5 Myths You Shouldn’t Believe About Varicose Veins

Posted on December 21, 2015 by floridav

Throughout history, there have been many myths generated about the cause of varicose veins, how one might avoid getting them, and how one should care for them. Despite the best efforts of vascular experts, several of these myths still prevail in society. Orlando vein center, Florida Vein Care, lists the ones you should not believe.

Myth 1: “Varicose veins run in my family, so I am going to get them as well.” While varicose veins do seem to be more prevalent in some families than others, the truth is that only about 50 percent of the people who have varicose veins will witness them in other family members.
Myth 2: “Don’t cross your legs – it cuts off your circulation and you’ll get varicose veins.” If you don’t yet have spider or varicose veins, crossing your legs will not be the reason you get them. Now, if you are already symptomatic, meaning you are experiencing swelling, pain, achiness, or heavy feeling in your legs or have noticed skin discoloration, crossing your legs may worsen your symptoms. Improper or tight-fitted shoes, and even wearing those skin tight jeans, can further aggravate your veins.
Myth 3: “You should never get a tattoo anywhere on your legs or upper arms – they can cause varicose veins.” This statement has not been proven to be true. Varicose veins are the result of poor circulation caused by improperly functioning valves within the vein walls. Blood pools which cause the veins to swell and triggers other symptoms. It’s a little bit of a stretch to think that tattooing would result in varicose veins.
Myth 4: “If you are still planning to have children, do not seek treatment for your varicose veins until you are done.” If you have been diagnosed with severe varicosities prior to becoming pregnant, you should consider seeking treatment now. In many women, early treatment of existing problems can help ease the development of varicose veins during pregnancy. Seek the advice of a vascular specialist.
Myth 5: “After I started getting massages, my varicose veins were cured.” Sadly, if anyone has shared this with you, they haven’t told you the truth. While massage certainly feels good and it may help to alleviate the swelling, achiness, and pain experienced with varicose veins, and those results are short-lived. Poor circulation and ineffective valves cannot be remedied by massage.

The staff at Florida Vein Care is here to help diagnose and explain the options available for the treatment of varicose veins. Dr. Bragg is Central Florida’s leading expert in sclerotherapy, EVLT, vein microsurgery, laser treatments, and ambulatory phlebectemy and will help you decide which treatment is best for you. Call for a consult today at 407-805-8989, or fill out an online contact form.

Are Both Low and High-Impact Exercises Beneficial to Varicose Veins?

Posted on December 14, 2015December 4, 2015 by floridav

Working to keep fit and trim is synonymous with living a healthy lifestyle. You watch what you eat to avoid gaining weight; you limit your alcohol intake; you don’t smoke; and you participate in high-impact exercises regularly to complete a healthy lifestyle. You are doing everything you should be doing, and yet, you notice that your legs are feeling achy and tired. You’ve even noticed some swelling and discoloration. What’s up with that? Orlando vein center, Florida Vein Care, explains.

Contrary to what people believe, both low and high-impact exercising can aid the symptoms of varicose veins. Starting with lower impact workouts is recommended and can be gradually increased to more rigorous exercises. This helps develop core strength and supports gradual muscle development. Higher impact exercises, without straining your veins, aids in bone health. With the right amount of impact, this can lead to an increase in bone density, ligament strength and can assist cartilage development in joints.

Remember, although we approve of high-impact exercise routines, we recommend that you make certain adjustments to reduce any negative effects your routine is having on your veins. Something as simple as changing the running surface can alleviate the stress you are placing on your legs. Running on grass, or on a school track, has less of a jarring effect than running on the sidewalks or roads of your neighborhood would. If making this change is not conducive to your situation, consider wearing compression hose while running. The pressure of stockings against your legs can help to keep the valves operating properly and, in turn, reduce the pain or tired, achy feeling you experience while running. Elevating your legs after a run is also very beneficial.

If any symptoms may arise, you may indeed wish to consider completing revising your exercise routine from one that is high-impact to one that is low-impact. Bicycling, swimming, and walking are all great alternatives to the high-intense exercising you have been participating in. Changing your exercise routine will not cure your varicose veins, but it can reduce the symptoms you are experiencing. Low-impact and aerobic exercises keep the blood pumping normally without building up pressure in the veins which decreases the aggravation of the veins.

If symptoms still persist and you have tried changing your exercise routines, then you should seek treatment for your spider and varicose veins. At our premiere Orlando vein center, Dr. Bragg and his staff are here to help you through the diagnosis and treatment of your venous insufficiency. Get back to living life the way you want to. Call 407-805-8989 to take the first step to pain-free exercise.

What to Expect When You Visit Florida Vein Care

Posted on December 7, 2015December 4, 2015 by floridav

You have finally decided to schedule an appointment with a vein clinic in Orlando. The discomfort you are experiencing with the way your legs look and feel has resulted in your seeking medical assistance. If you are like most first-time patients, you are a little bit anxious about what this first visit will entail and whether or not it will be a comfortable experience.

The first visit will be mainly an information-gathering experience for both you and the physician. You will be asked to disclose your medical history which includes family history. You will also be asked to share your current lifestyle routines such as diet and exercise and whether or not you smoke, etc. It’s important that you discuss all symptoms that you are experiencing including the activities that may make them worse or feel better. Leave nothing out so that the doctor has an accurate picture of what’s going on.

You should wear loose-fitting clothing so that the doctor will have easy access during your physical examination if you are not asked to wear a hospital gown for the exam. Typically, a visual observation of your feet, ankles, and legs are the first part of this venous checkup. The doctor will be checking for skin coloration, the presence or absence of ulcerations, bulging veins, etc. Your distal pulse will be taken, and the doctor will take a listen to your heart.

At Florida Vein Care Center, we believe a venous Doppler is a critical part of the initial diagnosis. This may or may not occur during your first visit. A venous Doppler is a non-invasive screening will allow Dr. Bragg and his staff to have insight into what’s happening within your vein walls and visualize the valves and blood flow.

If you are diagnosed with spider veins, varicose veins (venous insufficiency), or deep vein thrombosis, your treatment options will be explored. There are a number of procedures that are successfully used to treat venous issues including sclerotherapy, EVT (endovenous laser treatment), ultrasound-guided injections, and ambulatory phlebectomy, to name a few. The pros and cons of each procedure, as they pertain to your health, will be thoroughly discussed, enabling you to make an informed decision when selecting the treatment plan that is best for you.

If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of spider or varicose veins, it’s time to take that first step. Make the call to the best vein clinic in Orlando now. Dr. Bragg and his staff are here to guide you on your journey to better vein health. 407-805-8989

4 Questions About Your Varicose Veins Answered

Posted on November 17, 2015September 21, 2021 by floridav

Why Me? Odds are that your first question to your doctor was “Why me?” Varicose veins in Orlando are usually caused by one or more of the following contributing factors:

1. - Heredity: If one or more of your parents had them, you will probably develop them as well.
  - Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, your changing blood volume, hormones, and the position of your baby can all result in varicose veins.
  - Age: Age is a contributing factor.
  - Weight: Being overweight or obese causes stress on your vascular system which can result in venous insufficiency.
  - Are my symptoms typical? Spider veins and varicose veins often share the same symptoms. Swelling, achiness, a heavy feeling (especially in the legs), swelling, itching, pain, and discoloration are all normal indicators of venous insufficiency. The severity of each symptom can be different for everyone depending on specific tolerance for pain.

How do I decide which treatment option is best for me? There are several procedures practiced today that can eliminate the varicosity. Your doctor and his team will explain the risks and benefits of each procedure and explore the risk if you choose not to seek treatment. Keep in mind that venous disease will not normally go away on its own and chronic venous insufficiency will only get worse as time goes on.

Will insurance cover my treatment? While some insurance companies may offer coverage, we have found it difficult to work with insurance companies for vein coverage. As of Oct. 1, 2021, Dr. Bragg no longer accepts insurance. However, we do our best to make the procedure affordable, and we can often do multiple procedures on the same leg on the same day. This helps you save time by not having to schedule repeated visits. The repeat visits are mandatory in some practices due to insurance limitations. We don’t have to operate under those constraints.

Will I need to have additional treatments? The answer to this question varies from patient to patient and depends on the severity of the insufficiency, its location, and which treatment option you have chosen. Your doctor will be better equipped to answer this question once you have had an examination.

Dr. Bragg and the experts at Florida Vein Care & Cosmetic Center are recognized leaders in the Central Florida area with more than 10 years of experience and close to 40,000 treatments performed. Call now to schedule an appointment for your varicose vein in Orlando: 407-805-8989.

This Halloween, What is More Frightening: Spider or Varicose Veins?

Posted on October 31, 2015April 11, 2017 by floridav

The staff at Orlando vein center, Florida Vein Care, understands the haunting feeling you get when you look at your unsightly spider veins. We know those spooky large, blue, and bulging varicose veins are terrifying. The aches and pain cause apprehension. We also understand that you may think the process of diagnosing the cause of the problem is scary or that treatments are downright torturous. Our experts will completely dispel your fears in just one visit.

Spider veins result when the small veins that lie closest to the skin’s surface begin to swell with pooling blood that is caused by insufficient blood flow in the deeper veins, or from injury, hormonal changes, or exposure to the sun. They are usually precursors to the more serious varicose veins which are indicative of larger blood flow problems. If 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 a crooked or web-like pattern across the affected area of skin.

Diagnosing spider and/or varicose veins is completely non-invasive. Ultrasound imaging is used to look at the circulation in the affected area and pinpoint the site. From there you will be able to thoroughly explore treatment options, and together with Dr. Bragg and his expert staff, you will decide on the treatment plan that’s best for you.

Dr. Bragg is board-certified MD in Orlando, FL, who specializes in varicose veins. He has performed over 50,000 successful treatments. With three convenient locations, one of our Orlando vein center locations can get you on the path to venous health. Treat yourself and make an appointment for a consultation with our expert staff. Call Florida Vein Care at 407-805-8989.

The difference between spider veins and varicose veins

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