SWELLING (EDEMA)

The abnormal buildup of fluid in the body is called edema. Edema is caused by poor or non-functioning veins, commonly seen in the feet and ankles, because of the effect of gravity, swelling is particularly noticeable in these locations. Common causes of edema are prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, being overweight, and increase in age.

VARICOSE VEINS

Varicose veins are a common condition caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves. Veins have one-way valves inside them that open and close to keep blood flowing toward the heart. Weak or damaged valves or walls in the veins can cause blood to pool and even flow backwards. This is called reflux. The veins may grow larger and become distorted, resulting in varicose veins. Visit How the Heart Works to learn more about blood flow to and from the heart.

LEG ULCERS

Non-functioning veins have increased backward pressure which stagnates flow resulting in less oxygen and nutrients transfer to local tissue, and eventually the skin breaks down. Venous leg ulcers can be very painful and are definitely unsightly. Treatment consists of vein closure and compression stockings. They can take anywhere between 3 to 18 months to heal, and in some cases, possibly longer.

RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME (RLS)

Also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, primary RLS, and idiopathic RLS—is a neurological disorder that causes unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in your legs and an irresistible urge to move them. Usually noticed when going to bed. The inability to rest one's legs causes delay in sleep and rest. The cause is yet unknown, however, in a vast majority of cases, RLS disappear overnight when the offending veins are closed. This does not guarantee that all RLS resolve but the results are very encouraging.

LIPODERMATOSCLEROSIS

LIPODERMATOSCLEROSIS

Lipodermatosclerosis refers to changes in the skin of the lower legs. It is a form of panniculitis (inflammation of the layer of fat under the skin). Symptoms include pain, hardening of skin, change in skin color (redness), swelling, and a tapering of the legs above the ankles. This condition occurs due to untreated veins and causes pain due to the skin being taut and stretched. In some cases, the shape of the leg has been described as looking like an upside down champagne bottle.

CORONA PHLEBECTASIA

A fan- shaped pattern of small intradermal veins on the medial (inside) or lateral (outside) aspect of the ankle and foot is called corona phlebectatica. Corona implies that they "crown" the ankle. Corona phlebectatica is thought to be an early sign of advanced venous reflux disease or venous insufficiency. This reflux typically originates at the saphenofemoral junction with venous blood refluxing into the great saphenous vein.. Less commonly, saphenopopliteal reflux into the lesser (short) saphenous vein is the underlying cause of corona phlebectatica. Other names for corona phlebectatica include "malleolar flare" and "ankle flare".

HYPERPIGMENTATION

HYPERPIGMENTATION

This occurs when the fluid part of the blood leaks out of the vessel and settles in surrounding tissue. The sun, inflammation, or other injuries can cause further damage to the area, making it unable to heal as fast as the normal, healthy tissue would.