Brown-stained legs magnified to show blood leaking out of veins just under the skinDo you have any concerns about your legs turning a reddish-brown color? This could be an indication that the veins in question are suffering from hemosiderin staining and potential problems with their health.

As we get older, it’s normal for our skin to thin, dry out, and lose elasticity. But it can be more concerning when you notice unusual changes in color and texture on your knees, legs, or ankles. If you notice a brown discoloration on the lower legs, it could point out a problem with your veins. For this reason alone, it’s important to understand why brown skin stains appear and what you can do to treat them.

What Is Hemosiderin Staining?

Hemosiderin Staining occurs when red blood cells leak through the veins and Iron or other byproducts are released. The brown stain shows up on the skin as a result of this symptom, which can happen for several reasons.

What Causes Hemosiderin Staining?

Chronic Vein Disease

In addition to its unsightly appearance, Hemosiderin Staining indicates an underlying health condition. The reddish-brown discoloration on the lower legs is caused by chronic venous disease–the abnormal function of veins.

When your veins can’t pump blood back up to the heart properly, it pools in your lower legs. Symptoms start with slight skin irritations and itchiness, then manifest varicose veins. Other vein disease symptoms that can lead to brown staining are:

  • High Blood Pressure – Veins force blood through the veins and sometimes through the skin.
  • Vein Ulcers – Slow-healing or non-healing wounds.

As blood continues to pool in the veins, its cells break down and leak iron pigments into the skin. Over time, this shows up as brown patches or stains on the lower leg or ankle. When unaddressed, the stain will darken and eventually may turn black. At this point, these symptoms are unfortunately permanent even when vein disease is treated. BUT! If caught early enough, chronic venous disease can be controlled and Hemosiderin staining will fade.

orange personified as a person with brown-red stains on her legs, shows how it is caused by sclerotherapy needle

Sclerotherapy Staining Side-Effect

Sclerotherapy is one of the treatment options for vein disease and varicose veins. It involves the injection of a substance known as a sclerosant into the affected veins. This makes the veins reduce in size.

In some cases, this treatment may leave the patient with brown skin discoloration as a result of hemosiderin (iron) deposits. This discoloration is usually transient and disappears in a couple of weeks; however, in some people, the stain ends up being permanent.

If you are considering sclerotherapy treatment, consider the following factors that are associated with the Hemosiderin Staining side effect:

  • Dark Skin Type
  • Sensitive Skin
  • Older Patients with Fragile Veins
  • Taking Certain Medication
  • Experience of the Vein Doctor

Treating the Condition, NOT the Symptom

Most patients will go to a dermatologist or primary care physician for the skin condition, not the underlying vein disease of hemosiderin staining. As a result, they may not get an accurate diagnosis.

If you have brown skin discoloration on the knees, lower legs, or ankles, make an appointment with a vein specialist as this could be early signs of vein disease…especially if accompanied by achy, heavy, and swollen legs.

Early treatment of your vein disease may help lighten the brown stains caused by Hemosiderin Staining, and even keep them from getting darker. Once diagnosed, the goal is to reroute the blood to healthier veins and fade unwanted veins, stains, and pains. The sooner you treat your vein condition, the better you’ll feel and the fewer complications you’ll experience.

 

At Delaware Advanced Vein Center, our medical staff has years of experience helping people with their spider and varicose veins. We would love to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients. 

Contact us today to schedule a free virtual consultation and vein evaluation.

Filed under: Varicose Veins, Vein TreatmentTagged with: , ,
person holding leg with varicose veins
Varicose veins are like snowflakes. They are as unique to patients as the treatments are to fix them. Often considered a cosmetic issue, varicose veins are a medical condition called venous insufficiency. And they can be quite painful if not treated. Here’s how to ease the discomfort. 
 

What is Venous Insufficiency?

The cause of venous insufficiency is malfunctioning vein valves. They can’t push blood from the legs back up to your heart, causing the blood to pool in the legs.
Venous insufficiency symptoms often include:
  • Heaviness in your legs 
  • Pain/cramping
  • Swelling
  • Restless legs
  • Discoloration

How to Relieve Varicose Vein Pain

If you find yourself in pain from your varicose veins, you should seek treatment with a vein specialist. But here are some options to ease the discomfort at home:
1. Elevate Your Legs. Elevating your legs can help you get relief from varicose vein pain quickly. Lie on a table, stretch up against the wall or rest them down onto three to four pillows so that blood flows towards its heart while elevating. Stay there for 15 minutes at least – this will reduce swelling and ease discomfort!
2. Exercise and Stretch Your Legs. Flex your feet, especially during long trips when your legroom is limited. If you have to sit or stand all day, change position at least every 30 minutes and your bend knees.
3. Hydrate. Proper hydration supports healthy blood circulation. Drink enough water and move around as often as possible.
4. Use Cold Water. Shower your legs with cold water. Cool temperatures cause blood vessels to shrink, which reduces swelling and feelings of heaviness.
If your varicose vein pain symptoms progress, worsen or don’t go away, see a vein specialist. They can offer a treatment plan based on your symptoms. There are several non-invasive procedures to help ease your pain for good.

Delaware State riding a bicycle to healthier veinsAt Delaware Advanced Vein Center, our medical staff has years of experience helping people with their spider and varicose veins. We would love to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients. 

Contact us today to schedule a FREE virtual consultation and vein evaluation.

Filed under: Varicose VeinsTagged with: ,

leaf character with varicose veins holding a coffee cup and watching leaves fall
At last, Fall is upon us! You dreaded seeing the veins on your legs this summer, and now you can cover them up and forget about them until next summer, right?

WRONG! Fall is the best time to get rid of those unsightly veins once and for all. Here are a few great reasons why now is the time to finally address your veins:

Insurance

This time of year, you may have met your insurance deductible. Or, if you have a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), you may be in a position where you need to finish using those funds by the end of the year.

Extra Time for Healing

Varying types of medical procedures are used to treat veins. Most treatments require one or more sessions, and the healing time varies depending on how serious your condition is. You may not notice full results until after about 2 weeks from starting treatment so plan accordingly if you want pain-free legs by late spring/summer!

Sun Protection

Whether you choose injectable or laser vein treatment, it’s important to protect the treated area from the sun for a number of weeks. Sun exposure can cause permanent skin discoloration in the treated area, interfering with your desired results. Keeping the treated veins under fall clothing is one of the best ways to ensure the veins are fully protected from the sun’s rays. In turn, you’ll have the best possible outcome from your vein treatment.

Cooler Temperatures

Being active and walking is very important after vein treatment. It encourages blood circulation which helps with the healing process. Cooler temperatures make it enjoyable to go out and do some fun Fall activities with friends and family.

Easy Appointment Scheduling

Getting a vein treatment in the fall and winter is much easier. You can schedule an appointment without too many interruptions because most people are at work or caring for their children during these times anyway! In 15-30 minutes you will get back up on your feet again with no downtime necessary – so go ahead and make this happen.

Treat Your Veins Today!

If you or a loved one suffer from leg swelling, rashes or ulcers, see a vein specialist as soon as you can. If you don’t have symptoms but do have the risk factors for varicose veins, see a doctor. A simple ultrasound test will determine whether you have varicose veins or not.

Remember, untreated varicose veins can lead to serious health problems. Don’t wait. With your varicose veins treated, you’ll feel better — and you’ll live a longer, healthier life with fewer complications.

 

orange leaf character playing tennis

At Delaware Advanced Vein Center, our medical staff has years of experience helping people with their spider and varicose veins. We would love to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients. 

Contact us today to schedule a free virtual consultation and vein evaluation.

Filed under: Spider Veins, Varicose Veins, Vein TreatmentTagged with: , ,

leaf caricature with varicose veins

Yes, men can get varicose veins too and it’s totally normal! While mostly associated with women, this vein condition is actually very common in men, particularly as they get older. Venous insufficiency is a men’s health issue that can and should be treated. 

If you’re a man with varicose veins, or know someone with vein issues, read below for some expert tips and advice to help you understand this medical condition. 

1. You’re Not Alone

It’s estimated that 40% of all men will experience varicose veins at some point in their life. In fact, roughly 30 million American men and women have this vein condition due to aging, genes, hormones, or lifestyle.

Take ease in knowing there are many other people out there in the same boat. But don’t take that to mean your veins aren’t a big concern, just that you’re in good company.

2. Know the Signs

Varicose veins are a sign that the blood flow from your legs to your heart is restricted. This can make your legs feel itchy, painful, and, if left untreated, lead to other health compilations.

In addition to swollen, discolored, and enlarged veins, symptoms of venous insufficiency include:

  • aching
  • cramping and burning
  • itching and tingling
  • pain that gets worse when standing
  • night cramps
  • swollen ankles

If you experience any of these symptoms, reach out to a specialist to learn more and to ease your discomfort. No one should have to suffer.

3. Examine Yourself

Men can get varicose veins anywhere on the body, even the scrotum. So check to see if you have any swollen veins on your testicles. Known as varicoceles, this condition can lead to lowered testosterone levels and eventually infertility. Luckily, varicoceles can be treated by surgically removing the veins. After a few treatments, testosterone levels should return to normal along with your romantic pursuits.

4. It’s Not a Cosmetic Issue

A lot of men don’t treat their varicose veins simply because they aren’t concerned with the appearance. But leaving your varicose veins untreated is actually pretty dangerous and can lead to pain, swelling, and even ulceration.

Just Picture It: Healthy veins pump blood up to your heart. If those veins don’t work properly, blood will sink and pool, resulting in twisted, swollen blood vessels. Doesn’t sound superficial, does it?

You may not care the way they look, but there are underlying health issues that need to be addressed. So it’s important to book a consultation with a vein specialist to determine the status of your vein health.

5. Change Your Habits, Change Your Life

While you can’t change your genes, hormones, or age, you can change your habits. Once you consult with a doctor about your vein health, he/she may suggest some lifestyle adjustments.

These simple changes can make a huge difference in your vein health:

  • Lose weight
  • Quit smoking
  • Move your body (walk, bike, or dance)
  • Eat more fiber, eat less salt
  • Drink plenty of water

6. Choose Health over Pride

Taking charge of your health is admirable and nothing to be embarrassed about. Varicose veins are serious and shouldn’t be put on the back burner. Even if your veins are just visible but not painful, head to a vein clinic for a diagnosis.

The earlier you catch and treat your vein problems, the easier and more comfortable life will be. Since varicose veins are so common, doctors know exactly how to treat it. No trial period, no unknowns, just a few quick treatments and you’re back at it!

Varicose veins won’t just go away on their own, they’ll get worse. Don’t wait. Take action now! They can be fixed with a quick, simple, and non-invasive procedure. And depending on the severity of your varicose veins, treatment will have you in, out, and back on your feet all in the same day! 

 

Delaware State riding a bicycle to healthier veinsAt Delaware Advanced Vein Center, our medical staff has years of experience helping people with their spider and varicose veins. We would love to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients. 

Contact us today to schedule a free virtual consultation and vein evaluation.

Filed under: Varicose Veins, Vein HealthTagged with: ,

illustration of pregnant person with x-ray version showing heart and varicose veins
During pregnancy, your uterus grows and puts pressure on the inferior vena cava–a large vein on the right side of your body. This increases pressure in your leg veins.

A woman’s blood volume doubles to supply blood to both her and her baby. This puts extra pressure on the blood vessels, especially those in the legs, to push the extra blood back up to the heart. 

If you’re concerned about developing varicose veins, this article is for you.

What Causes Varicose Veins During Pregnancy? 

Pregnancy is one of the major risk factors for varicose veins along with the following: 

Heredity

One of the biggest factors of varicose veins is heredity. If you have a family history of varicose veins in your family, chances are that you will, too.

Hormones

During pregnancy your hormones rise, causing the vein walls to become more relaxed.

Twins or multiples 

Pregnancy with multiples puts extra strain on veins and arteries. You may see an increased amount during pregnancy with multiples.

Being Overweight

Extra weight increases the demands on your already overworked circulatory system. Keep your weight within the recommended range for your stage of pregnancy. Eat foods high in water.

Prolonged standing

Standing for long periods of time also increases a pregnant woman’s chances of developing varicose veins. Try to take breaks and sit to avoid long periods of time on your feet.

How to Prevent Varicose Veins During Pregnancy? 

While you can’t prevent all risk factors, especially a family history of varicose veins and hormonal changes, you can still take steps to help prevent or lessen the effects of varicose veins during pregnancy.

Exercise 

Even a brisk walk around the block can improve your circulation.

Elevate your feet and legs 

Rest your legs on a stool when you’re sitting and elevate your feet and legs with pillows when you’re lying down.

Do Varicose Veins Go Away After Pregnancy?

Varicose veins during pregnancy usually resolve on their own. But the more severe your varicose veins are, the more likely they’ll stay. The good news is that varicose veins in your vagina or vulva almost always resolve after delivery.

Varicose veins may itch or hurt, and they can be unsightly. Treatment, if needed, can usually be postponed until after you have your baby. If you’re having pain or discomfort or are just generally worried about your varicose veins, don’t hesitate to get help and call your doctor.

 

 

illustration of person holding a map of varicose veins 

At Delaware Advanced Vein Center, our medical staff has years of experience helping people with their spider and varicose veins. We would love to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients. 

Contact us today to schedule a free virtual consultation and vein evaluation.

Filed under: Varicose Veins, Vein HealthTagged with: , ,

aisle shot of an airplane from behindFor many of us, it’s exciting to go on new adventures. But for those who suffer from varicose veins, traveling leads to pain and discomfort. Sitting or standing for long periods of time can wreak havoc on your veins. Long plane rides or exploring a new city on foot can be very uncomfortable.

Here are some tips to help ease varicose vein discomfort from road trips to airplane travel.

1. Get up and Walk

When you’re traveling long distances, try to get up and walk around every 60 minutes or so. If you’re driving, that means pulling over to a rest area or restaurant. If you’re flying, a quick walk to the bathroom and back will do the trick.

2. Hydrate

One of the best ways to reduce varicose vein discomfort when traveling is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water improves your vein health. It helps blood circulation and strengthens the muscles that support your veins. Avoid dehydrating liquids like alcohol and caffeine.

3. Dress Comfortably

Avoid restrictive garments when traveling because they might restrict your blood flow. Loose-fitting pants or dresses will help your legs relax and promote blood circulation.

4. Move Your Feet

If you’re stuck in a seat for long periods of time, shaking your feet and wiggling your toes is helpful. Pull your toes back towards your body, hold for 10 seconds, then point your feet down for 10 seconds. Do this with each foot several times to keep your leg muscles engaged and blood flowing.

5. Wear Compression Stockings

When sitting for a long period of time during travel, swelling is likely to occur. To keep swelling down, try compression stockings or socks. Compression socks help keep oxygen flowing and prevent your legs from cramping.

Pain-free Travel for Good

Varicose veins can be painful and even a serious medical condition. But they should not stop you from taking a well-deserved vacation. Talk to a vein specialist about treatment today for pain-free travel in the future.

 

Delaware State riding a bicycle to healthier veinsAt Delaware Advanced Vein Center, our medical staff has years of experience helping people with their spider and varicose veins. We would love to welcome you to our family of satisfied patients. 

Contact us today to schedule a free virtual consultation and vein evaluation.

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