Raynaud's disease causes
What is Raynaud’s Disease?

Raynaud’s disease is a rare condition that affects the arteries. The disorder involves brief episodes of vasospasm, a narrowing of blood flow to the fingers and toes. Symptoms include a numb sensation in response to cold temperatures or stress.

What Causes Raynaud’s Disease?

In Raynaud’s disease, smaller arteries that supply blood to your skin become narrow. Usually, little or no blood flows to affected body parts.

What are the Symptoms of Raynaud’s Disease?

The skin turns white or blue for a short time. As blood flow returns, the affected areas may turn red and throb, tingle, burn, or feel numb.

What Are the Causes of Raynaud’s Disease?

  • Conditions that damage the arteries or nerves that control the arteries in the hands and feet.
  • Repetitive actions that damage the nerves controlling the arteries in the hands and feet.
  • Injuries to the hands and feet.
  • Exposure to certain chemicals.
  • Medicines that narrow the arteries or affect blood pressure.
  • Mild or brief changes in temperature.
  • Women are more likely than men to have Raynaud’s disease.

Is There Treatment for Raynaud’s Disease?

Most people who have primary Raynaud’s can manage the condition with lifestyle changes. Those who have more severe Raynaud’s may need medicine and lifestyle changes.

Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes can help you avoid things that may trigger a Raynaud’s attack. Examples of such triggers include cold temperatures, emotional stress, workplace or recreational factors, and contact with certain chemicals or medicines.

Protect Yourself From Cold Temperatures: Wear a hat, mittens (rather than gloves), scarf, coat with snug cuffs, and warm socks and shoes during cold weather. Put hand and foot warmers in your gloves, boots, socks, or pockets. Avoid Other Stress Triggers Try to avoid things that make you upset or stressed. Learn ways to handle the stress that you can’t avoid. Physical activity helps some people cope with stress. Other people listen to music or practice yoga.

Avoid Workplace and Recreational Triggers: For example, limit the use of vibrating tools, such as drills. Wear proper protective gear if you work with industrial chemicals. Also, try to limit repetitive hand actions, such as typing or playing the piano.

Medicines that can Trigger Raynaud’s:

  • Migraine headache medicines that contain ergotamine. This substance causes your arteries to narrow.
  • Certain cancer medicines, such as cisplatin and vinblastine.
  • Over-the-counter cold or allergy medicines or diet aids. Some of these medicines can narrow your arteries.
  • Beta-blockers slow your heart rate and lower your blood pressure.
  • Birth control pills can affect blood flow.

Medication for Raynaud’s

If lifestyle changes don’t control Raynaud’s, you may need medicines to improve blood flow. Some include calcium channel blockers, alpha-blockers, and skin creams.

 

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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bulging veins on hands
Our blood moves throughout the body via blood vessels. Sometimes they’ll appear as bulging or popping veins in the hands and feet. These swollen veins can look weird and show off our age. The good news is most bulging veins aren’t really a sign of poor health. But there are instances where they may arise from a serious vascular disease. Either way, we’ll go over what you need to know about bulging veins.

What Causes Bulging Veins in the Hands and Feet?

Aging: As we age, our skin gets thinner and less elastic, making our blood vessels more visible. Your vein valves weaken, which can cause blood to pool in your veins for a longer period of time. This enlarges the vein. It’s all a normal process of getting older.

Genetics: Having family members with bulging veins increases your chances of getting them.

Hot Weather: Heat can make veins more prominent and enlarged. Hot temperatures also make it harder for veins to function properly. They’ll work harder and become more visible.

Hormone Imbalance: Pregnancy or menopause can lead to a hormone imbalance. One of the symptoms is bulging veins. Pregnancy may also put pressure on veins, making it harder for blood flow to get back to the heart.

Exercise: Bulging veins is common in those who do a lot of strength training exercises. Heavy lifting for long periods of time makes the blood flow increase. The muscles harden, causing more visible blood vessels. Over-stretching also plays a major role in making veins pop out.

Thrombophlebitis: Blood clots in the vein can cause it to bulge. These blood clots often form in the leg and can break off. They’ll flow to the lung and cause a condition called pulmonary embolism.

Body Fat Loss: Our skin has a layer of fat that serves as an insulator. When you lose weight, that layer thins and leads and makes veins more visible.

Health Conditions: Underlying heart problems can cause a chronic increase in blood pressure. This weakens the veins and can cause popping.

How to Fix Bulging Veins

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help decrease the swelling of bulging veins. Eating healthy foods with high water content can also help ease vein pressure. There are also procedures that can help remove veins that pop out.

Sclerotherapy injects a chemical solution into targeted veins and makes them close.

Ambulatory phlebectomy is the removal of the targeted veins via small incisions. Vein stripping and ligation close the vein that supplies blood to the targeted vein. While you’re under general anesthesia, your doctor will make an incision, tie off the vein, and remove it. The blood that used to run in the vein is automatically shifted. The closed vein eventually fades away.

Cosmetic or Medical, Bulging Veins Can be Fixed

Bulging hand and feet veins aren’t a serious medical issue for the majority of people. But if you’re concerned that your popping veins are something serious — or you don’t like the way they look — make an appointment with a vein doctor.

If there’s a serious problem, they can recommend treatment. If you want them removed for cosmetic purposes, your doctor will have a suggestion on the best procedure for you. In the unlikely event, your bulging hand and feet veins are a sign of a more serious condition, your doctor will offer specific medical treatment.

 

 

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: Vein Health, Vein TreatmentTagged with: ,
how cold weather affects varicose veins
If you have varicose veins, spider veins, or other forms of venous disease, colder seasons can take a toll on your legs. Here we’ll look at what happens to your veins in colder temperatures and how it affects your veins’ overall function. 

Positive Effects of Cold Weather on Your Veins

Less Discomfort​: Cold temperatures can actually cause your veins to shrink. This makes it easier for the vein valves to function and decrease the pressure around the ankles and calves. As a result, this could mean fewer cramps and swollen ankles!

Negative Effects of Cold Weather on Your Veins

Circulatory Problems: When the temperatures drop enough for it to snow, the atmospheric pressure changes. This can cause your circulatory system to become less efficient, which can aggravate vein problems.
 
Weight Gain​: It’s common during the holiday months to gain a few extra pounds. That means your legs are under more stress to pump blood back to your heart. Despite the cold weather, try to stay active. This will keep the valves pumping blood through the veins.

How to Maintain Vein Health in Winter

Here are a few ways to keep the symptoms of varicose veins in check during the colder months:
  • Elevate your legs for 30 minutes before you go to sleep.
  • Eat high-fiber foods like avocados, beans, and berries for good circulation.
  • Try some light stretching in the morning, at midday, and before bed.
  • Massage your ankles and lower legs when possible.

See a Vein Specialist

There are many things you can do to address the current symptoms of varicose veins and prevent future varicose veins from forming. But, once a vein has become varicose, it’s impossible to treat without medical attention. Seeking a vein specialist is recommended to address your vein issues.

 

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: Vein HealthTagged with: ,

foods to eat to improve vein healthWe all know that a healthy diet is beneficial for your overall health. But did you know that eating certain foods can actually impact your vein health as well?

If you have varicose or spider veins, consider eating these foods to improve your vein health and prevent further vein damage. 

Foods High in Rutin

Many specialists agree that the best foods for varicose veins are those high in rutin, a plant pigment found in certain fruits and vegetables. Rutin is a “vasoprotective,” meaning it protects blood vessels. It can strengthen weak capillaries that could develop into varicose veins. Rutin is also, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and antioxidant. 

Foods that contain rutin include: 

  • apple
  • buckwheat
  • grapes
  • cherries
  • apricots
  • blackberries
  • avocados

Foods High in Water

Drinking water is one of the best ways to improve your vein health. It helps circulate the blood by making it thinner and helps strengthen the muscles that support the veins. Choosing foods high in water content, like cucumbers or watermelon, will help your veins stay hydrated.

Other water-rich foods include: 

  • strawberries
  • cantaloupe 
  • peaches
  • oranges
  • broths and soups
  • zucchini
  • celery
  • tomatoes 

Foods High in Vitamins & Minerals 

Your body needs vitamins and minerals (aka micronutrients) to function properly. They not only nourish the body but also reduce your risk of diseases, especially vein disease. Eating nutrient-rich foods will give your body the power it needs to protect and strengthen the arteries, veins, and heart from damage that lead to varicose veins. 

Foods that contain vitamins & minerals include: 

  • Avocado 
  • Asparagus
  • Berries
  • Citrus Fruits
  • Leafy Greens
  • Bananas
  • Fish

Healthy Food AND Vein Treatment 

While a healthy diet isn’t a substitute for vein treatment by a vein specialist, paying attention to the foods you consume can help you manage your varicose veins and spider veins. But the best approach to better vein health is to combine exercise, diet, and vein treatment. 

If your legs are painful, itchy, or swelling, it could lead to a serious medical condition, especially if you don’t seek medical help. In this case, food won’t help as much as vein treatment.

 

Delaware State riding a bicycle to healthier 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: Vein HealthTagged with: , ,
varicose vein home remedies
The lure of all-natural ingredients (plus the convenience of skipping a doctor’s visit) is hard to resist. Many people try food and other items to treat the appearance and discomfort of varicose veins. But this begs the question: Do these home remedies for varicose veins actually work? 
 
The answer is a yes and no. DIY varicose vein remedies can help sooth symptoms like inflammation and discomfort, but they are not a permanent cure. Here, we dive into the pros and cons of popular varicose vein home remedies.

Are Varicose Vein Home Remedies Safe?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a solid yes or no answer to this question. We believe in the power of vein treatments like VNUS and ambulatory phlebectomy. It’s the sure fire way to permanently remove your varicose veins. 
 
But, we understand the temptation to reach for ingredients in your kitchen pantry. Some home solutions can indeed soothe the skin if thoughtfully used. We urge patients to err on the side of caution when approaching DIY cosmetics. It’s not worth harming your skin.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Pros: Apple cider vinegar (AVC) improves blood flow and circulation. It’s also supposed to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins. Apply undiluted ACV to the skin over the varicose veins and massage it into the skin twice a day. 
 
Cons: While it’s unlikely the use of ACV for varicose veins is harmful, there is little research and proof to support this treatment as successful.

Epsom Salt

Pros: Epsom salt may help improve the blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and decrease varicose vein size. It can improve magnesium deficiencies in the body which are important for tissue development. Dissolve the salts in warm bath water and soak the affected areas.
 
Cons: Epsom salt is great for soothing the discomfort and inflammation caused by your varicose veins, but it will not make them go away.

Aloe Vera

Pros: Aloe Vera can have many benefits on varicose veins. The gel can relieve itchiness, which is a problem in patients with varicose veins. It can also reduce swelling and reduce pain. When massaged into the skin, aloe vera may improve blood circulation.
 
Cons: Aloe Vera can ease irritation and discomfort caused by varicose veins but it is only temporary. For a permanent solution, you need to seek medical vein treatment.

Peppermint Oil

Pros: Peppermint oil has cooling and soothing properties. It helps reduce pain and discomfort caused by poor blood circulation. The oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation. Warm the oil in your hands and massaging the area affected by varicose veins.
 
Cons: You’ll still suffer from underlying health complications related to varicose veins even after using peppermint oil.

Combine DIY Varicose Vein Remedies with Lifestyle Changes

These vein remedies will bring relief, but you need to commit to some lifestyle changes to prevent other varicose veins issues. The only way to improve the function and appearance of your veins is from the inside. Combine your vein care remedies with the following lifestyle adjustments:

  • vein health for varicose veinsDon’t sit or stand for long periods. If your work demands so, take breaks after every 30 minutes. Change your position, walk a little, stretch or stand for a while. Just don’t be in the same position for long periods of time.
  • Don’t sit with crossed legs or crossed ankles.
  • Keep your legs elevated even when you lie down or sleep.
  • Exercise regularly. Cardiovascular exercises and strength training all are beneficial for your vein health. Walking too improves your blood circulation.
  • Lose weight. Being overweight is one of the major causes of varicose veins.
  • Eat a balanced diet. Include more fiber in your meals. Fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants are good for you and your blood circulation.

Skip the Trial & Error and Opt for Vein Treatment

We get it. It’s normal to wish for simple solutions. Choosing your home varicose vein treatment can be an attractive prospect, but it leaves too much to chance. The best way to find the right solution for varicose veins is to work with a certified vein specialist. They will check your veins, listen to your concerns, and provide personalized treatment. This approach is proven to provide visible, long-lasting results.
 

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: ,

If you want to ease the pain, discomfort, and visibility of your veins, you need to Improve your Vein Health.

Our veins are pretty amazing when you think about it. They move ALL our blood (over 1 gallon!) up towards the heart and lungs. But if they don’t work properly, the blood flows backward and pools, leading to large, swollen, or itchy veins.

If you experience vein discomfort like this, you’re not alone. Over 48 million men and women suffer from vein diseases like spider and varicose veins. But Good News! Not only are there treatments for it, but there are simple lifestyle changes you can make to improve your vein health.

The following lifestyle changes may help reduce the appearance of veins and improve their overall health. Seek treatment from a certified vein specialist to address your vein health concerns before the condition worsens.

1. Increase Your Physical Activity

Walking just 30 minutes a day is a great way to get moving and help the blood circulate in your legs and feet. When you walk, the muscles in your legs help push the blood through your veins, which will decrease the pressure in your varicose veins.

2. Drink Plenty of Water

When you stay hydrated, your blood tends to be thinner which makes it easier for your body to circulate. Thinner blood also makes clotting less likely to occur. Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

3. Shed A Few Pounds

Extra weight puts a strain on your heart and organs and can make varicose veins worse. Losing weight can alleviate vein-related pain and swelling as well as slow the formation of new varicose veins.

4. Easy on the Salt

Salt retains water. When you eat salty food, the extra fluid in your bloodstream makes your veins work harder. The result is a higher blood pressure and strain on the delicate walls of your veins. Try looking for low-sodium food alternatives, or use substitutes like lemon juice when you want more flavor. 

5. Quit Smoking

Smoking damages your lungs, wreaks havoc on arteries, and puts you at risk for many other cardiovascular issues. The chemicals in tobacco remove oxygen and thicken the blood. The Nicotine also makes your veins harden and narrow. This causes the blood to flow at a much slower pace and ultimately, damages the function of your blood vessels.

6. Raise Your Legs and Feet

Elevating your legs will keep the blood from pooling in your lower leg. This will reduce swelling and improve overall blood flow. Aim to lift your legs at the same level as your heart or higher. If it’s comfortable in your body, lay on your back and place your legs up a wall. Place a fluffy pillow under your legs or back for added comfort and support.

7. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing

If your job or lifestyle involves sitting or standing for long periods of time, it’s important that you stretch. Practice bending and flexing your legs periodically to keep the blood circulating and prevent pooling. Just raising your legs up and down can help with any backed-up blood flow. When sitting, try not to cross your legs as this can further restrict blood flow to the legs and feet.

8. Ditch the High Heels

When you wear high heels, it minimizes the range of motion in your foot and ankle. As a result, your calf muscle can’t properly pump the blood back up through your veins. This can cause the blood in the leg veins to pool and manifest varicose veins. It is recommended to find a flat shoe that offers support.

 

 

When your veins are healthy and happy, they won’t be visible on the surface of your skin or cause any discomfort and pain. While lifestyle changes may contribute to improved vein health, it is not a permanent solution.

If you have experienced prolonged vein problems, consult with your doctor to find the best treatment plan for you. Vein procedures today are non-invasive and covered by most insurance companies. Make sure to find a doctor that specializes in veins to ensure you get the best results possible.

 

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 HealthTagged with: , ,