14, 7, 2022

Before & After Spider Vein Treatment

2022-06-25T16:09:12-07:00

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are the fine, thread-like reddish veins at the surface of the skin. These veins are not healthy. Veins are often considered a cosmetic issue, but they can be associated with underlying feeder veins, not visible to the naked eye.  Feeder veins are the ‘blue veins’ also known as ‘reticular veins,’ that give rise to spider veins. Spider veins may also be a sign of underlying venous insufficiency. For example, spider veins located in the inner ankles and inner thighs can indicate an underlying problem with the saphenous vein. As a result, an ultrasound examination may be recommended to identify and effectively treat the underlying source of these veins.

What are the symptoms?

Vein conditions affect people differently. For some, these veins can be a painless cosmetic concern, and for others they may cause symptoms. The most common symptoms of spider veins are burning, throbbing, and localized pain. They can also feel hot and itchy and bleed.

What causes them?

Spider veins in the legs are caused by the same condition that causes varicose veins. Leaky vein valves allow blood to pool within the veins causing them to stretch and become enlarged. These veins on other areas of the body, such as the face, and chest can be caused by sun damage, hormone changes or liver disease. Hormones, such as with pregnancy, birth control or hormone replacement therapy can weaken the vein wall.

Below you can see the transformation of 3 of our patients who received vein treatment.

spider veinsspider veinsspider veins

If you experience any vein disease symptoms, please call our office at (858)-434-5998 to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable doctors at La Jolla Vein and Vascular.

For more information on vein health please check out our Youtube Channel or visit our helpful guide of resources.

Before & After Spider Vein Treatment2022-06-25T16:09:12-07:00

Vein Health & Working From Home

2022-12-13T13:18:14-08:00

Prolonged desk work can increase the risk of blood clots in leg veins and decline your vein health.

As many Americans are working from home, we have received many calls from patients regarding thrombophlebitis, which is a big concern for vein health. This is not a new scenario for us, over the years frequently patients come in for assessment of leg pain after working on their computers for 12 hours straight.

ThromboPhlebitis refers to blood clots in the leg veins and inflammation of the surrounding vein. The inflammation causes leg pain and redness of the surrounding skin. You may also feel hard lumps in the leg veins.

Inactivity, sitting for long periods of time, like sitting at your desk, working on your computer for many hours without walking or getting up for a light walk or exercise, affects the blood flow in the leg veins. Your calf muscle pump, which is used when walking and moving about helps to move blood back to your heart. Sitting for too long of periods, increases the risk of your blood pooling in the leg veins and can even form blood clots. Blood clots that form in the deep veins are serious as they can travel to the heart and lungs (deep venous thrombosis). Blood clots that form in the surface veins, are called superficial thrombophlebitis (STP).  With STP, you can typically feel lumps that can be painful. People who have varicose veins, have an increased risk of developing STP especially with inactivity. Being mindful about your vein health while working remotely will help in the longer run when it comes to vein disease. 

Tips to Avoid Phlebitis When Working From Home:

  1. Avoid sitting at your desk or computer for longer than 45 minutes without taking a break to get up and walk about.
  2. Try to walk at least 30 minutes a day or other exercise
  3. When sitting, do calf raises to pump the calf veins.
  4. If you have varicose veins, you should wear compression stockings during the day time.

If you experience any vein disease symptoms, please call our office at (858)-550-0330 to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable doctors at La Jolla Vein and Vascular. 

 

For more information on vein health please check out our Youtube Channel or visit our helpful guide of resources

 

Vein Health & Working From Home2022-12-13T13:18:14-08:00

How to reduce bruising and swelling after vein treatment

2022-06-25T16:45:43-07:00

One way to reduce bruising after surgery

 

One of the most common side effects after surgery is bruising. Whether it is due to plastic surgery or vein surgery, bruising and swelling are inevitable. One of the most powerful tools that we recommend for patients undergoing any type of surgery is RECOVA post surgery cream

 

Dr Nishe Bunke created RECOVA cream as a post surgical recovery cream specifically designed to reduce bruising, swelling, redness, and pain. RECOVA skin creams are packed with antioxidants and natural ingredients that promote healing and reduce inflammation. 

 

RECOVA cream aids in reducing pain, swelling, and discoloration after cosmetic surgery, injections, and procedures, laser treatments, varicose vein procedures, Sclerotherapy, minor injuries, and easy bruising. 

 

Our patients at La Jolla Vein Care have seen quick transformation post procedures. The combination of natural ingredients in RECOVA cream helps aid in quicker recovery.

 

 The powerful ingredients that help reduce bruising included in RECOVA are listed below:  

 

Arnica Montana is a flower extract that helps with inflammation, swelling, and bruise recovery. 

 

Grapeseed Oil has numerous benefits and includes numerous vitamins such as vitamin E. It is a flavonoid that aids in chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and edema. 

 

Bromelain is an enzyme that is a natural remedy for inflammation and swelling.

 

Horse Chestnut is used to improve poor blood circulation, reduce swelling, and for varicose vein symptoms. 

 

Caprylhydroxamic Acid is an amino acid derived from coconut oil used as a gentle preservative that ensures product safety and longevity. 

 

Witch Hazel is used for swelling and inflammation. It is used to shrink varicose veins and hemorrhoids as well as reduce rosacea and clear redness of the skin. 

 

Butcher’s Broom is used for natural anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to reduce swelling and reduce varicose vein symptoms. 

 

Sunflower Seed Oil is packed with vitamins A, E, C, and D. 

 

Menthol is not present in the tinted RECOVA, since Tinted Arnica is often used around the eyes. 

 

The combination of these ingredients contributes to an overall comforting and healing sensation when applied to the skin. 

 

RECOVA is a tool that stands out due to its natural ingredients that aid in venous disease symptoms. RECOVA is hypoallergenic, and non comedogenic. RECOVA is also free of parabens, phthalates, preservatives, synthetic additives, and dyes, and never tested on animals. 

 

Patients have used RECOVA cream after vein procedures and have seen quick and lasting results. We recommend physicians offer this for patients if they complain of redness, itching, and bruising after their procedures. RECOVA offers immediate soothing relief of discomfort for our patients. 

 

Check out RECOVA online for more information and to purchase RECOVA tinted arnica cream and RECOVA post surgery cream. 

 

How to reduce bruising and swelling after vein treatment2022-06-25T16:45:43-07:00

What are the adverse effects of vein treatment?

2022-06-25T15:48:17-07:00

Adverse effects of vein treatment are uncommon, but they can occur. Below are some signs to look out for if you have recently had vein treatment. 

Patients generally do very well with vein treatments, all of which have a low risk of complications. Most patients feel the benefits within a couple of weeks of treatment, for others it may take longer. With all treatments, the benefits need to be discussed along with the potential side effects or adverse events. The following are potential adverse effects from thermal vein ablations we tell our patients.

  • Aching over the treated veins is normal. This responds well to walking, ice packs, and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve).
  • Bruising over injection sites is also normal after vein treatment and resolves in about two weeks.
  • Hyperpigmentation over a vein can occur from blood pigments that are released as the vein is healing. It is more common in patients with large bulging veins and certain complexions. Hyperpigmentation tends to fade over many weeks if you stay out of direct sunlight.
  • Intravascular hematoma refers to a large varicose vein that becomes firm and tender days to weeks after treatment. This also responds well to ice packs and anti-inflammatory medications. We may also recommend a confirmatory ultrasound and/or offer needle drainage of the trapped blood to alleviate discomfort and minimize skin pigmentation and adverse effects.
  • Deep vein clots are very uncommon, and usually are limited to patients with poor mobility, advanced age, hormone treatment, and/or genetic tendency for clotting. We monitor all patients with ultrasound throughout treatment so we can detect clots at a very early stage before they cause a symptom. We may recommend surveillance ultrasounds, extra walking, and/or a short course of blood thinners.
  • Numb spot over a treated vein is another uncommon event after radiofrequency or laser vein ablation. This occurs when a branch of a skin nerve gets stunned during the heat treatment. It tends to improve over several weeks. The nerves that control the movement of the leg and foot are located far from the superficial veins.

If you experience any vein disease symptoms, please call our office at (858)-434-5998 to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable doctors at La Jolla Vein and Vascular.

For more information on vein health please check out our Youtube Channel or visit our helpful guide of resources.

What are the adverse effects of vein treatment?2022-06-25T15:48:17-07:00

Fourth of July BBQ & Venous Reflux Disease

2022-12-13T14:06:06-08:00

After a holiday, patients frequently complain about leg pain, which can be reflux venous disease. Especially holidays where hours of cooking are involved like Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Easter, Christmas, Passover, etc. Some people who may have mild venous reflux disease, may not notice any symptoms until they are standing for hours- like during cooking. Over the years, we always hear from patients that their legs were aching and fatigued after cooking. 

The reason for this is venous reflux disease causes backflow of blood. 

The blood pools in the legs and the pooling of blood causes sensations of heaviness, fatigue, aching, and even night cramps and restlessness. Ankle swelling may also be more prominent.

Helpful tips to combat leg fatigue during the holidays: 

1.Elevating the legs allows the blood to flow in the correct direction and reduces the pooling of blood and symptoms.

2.Wearing compression stockings during cooking can be helpful to reduce symptoms. 

3.Also when standing upright for hours, it is helpful to do calf pump raises.

4.Minimize your time standing. Bring a chair to sit for the bbq or in the kitchen while you cook.

5. Delegating food preparation to other family members, to reduce standing for long periods of time, which can cause more pain.

The true culprit of leg fatigue and soreness after standing and cooking for numerous hours is leaky vein valves allowing the blood to pool, causing leg pain, heaviness, and fatigue. Try these few tips this July 4th holiday and see how you feel after. 

If you experience leg fatigue or pain after standing for long periods of time, this may be venous reflux disease, please call our office at (858)-550-0330 to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable doctors at La Jolla Vein and Vascular. 

 

For more information on vein health please check out our Youtube Channel.

 

Fourth of July BBQ & Venous Reflux Disease2022-12-13T14:06:06-08:00

29, 6, 2022

Why Choose Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE )?

2022-05-23T16:37:49-07:00

Why Choose Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE )?

 

It is essential to point out that while Genicular artery embolization (GAE). It is a relatively new procedure for treating osteoarthritis (OA). It is more effective than other treatments. One of the main reasons you should choose Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is that it is minimally invasive. The procedure is performed by an outpatient surgeon, allowing you to go back home the same day. Research also shows that the procedure has low risk and much faster recovery. Unlike taking drugs with numerous side effects, such as stomach upsets, the procedure has minimal side effects. Additionally, the procedure has a very high success rate, with eighty-five percent of patients treated with Genicular artery embolization (GAE) reporting significant pain and discomfort relief within the first month.

 

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) vs. Surgery

 

Compared to traditional surgeries performed to treat knee osteoarthritis, Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is more efficient and safe. This procedure is minimally invasive for starters, meaning that it requires a small incision in the skin. The scar is barely visible 1-2 months after the procedure. No one loves having scars on their feet. Unfortunately, extensive knee surgeries such as complete knee replacement leave large scars that are difficult to conceal.

 

Secondly, you get to go home the same day. Knee surgeries require the use of general/local anesthesia, which takes time to wear off. You will also need to spend a night or two for doctor observation after surgery. With Genicular artery embolization (GAE), you do not need to spend the night in the medical facility. Additionally, the procedure works for everyone, including people at high risk of complications and would not want to undergo expensive knee surgeries.

 

Why Choose La Jolla Vein & Vascular?

 

As mentioned, osteoarthritis affects almost 30 million people in the United States alone, with the knee being the most affected body part. The largest portion of these individuals is not quite ready for knee replacement surgery. As such, most of these patients depend on NSAIDS and knee injections to control the pain.

Unfortunately, over 100,000 people are hospitalized each year for gastrointestinal bleeding and other NSAIDs related complications. Even worse, there are more than 20,000 NSAID deaths annually. At LA Jolla Vein Care, we are one of the few medical facilities that offer Genicular artery embolization. The procedure is safe and effective for everyone.

With so many medical clinics cropping up here and there, we understand that choosing a health facility where you can entrust to perform new and advanced procedures such as Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is not easy. 

 

However, our results speak for themselves. Our licensed surgeon has performed numerous successful GAE procedures for our patients. Call us today and schedule your appointment!  We also schedule follow-up appointments to assess your progress.  Our friendly staff is also ready to assist you with questions and concerns that you may have.

 

Why Choose Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE )?2022-05-23T16:37:49-07:00

Non Invasive Vascular Laboratory

2022-05-23T15:49:54-07:00

Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory

The Non Invasive Vascular Laboratory at La Jolla Vein & Vascular utilizes advanced, noninvasive, diagnostic, medical ultrasound technology while ensuring high quality results to detect diseases that may affect blood flow in the arteries and veins.  We utilize “state-of-the-art” color duplex ultrasound imagers and indirect testing equipment.

The Vascular Lab offers the convenience of:

  • Non-invasive testing
  • Same-day imaging appointments
  • Follow-up clinic visits with our on-site vascular team
  • Appointments at multiple locations including La Jolla, Poway, Chula Vista, and Solana Beach.

What is Duplex Ultrasound

non invasive

The non invasive Duplex ultrasound involves using high frequency sound waves to look at the speed of blood flow, and structure of the blood vessels. The term “duplex” refers to the fact that two modes of ultrasound are used, Doppler and B-mode. The B-mode transducer obtains an image of the vessel being studied. The Doppler probe within the transducer evaluates the velocity and direction of blood flow in the vessel.

Types of Ultrasound Testing Offered:

Direct testing (duplex imaging)

Venous Non Invasive

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis- upper or lower extremity
  • Venous Reflux

Arterial Non Invasive

  • Abdominal Aorta
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening- must meet criteria of SAAAVE Act
  • Carotid Duplex
  • Lower Extremity Duplex

Indirect testing (non-imaging)

Arterial –Segmental pressures and waveforms (P&Ws), upper or lower extremity

 

 For more information and to book a consult, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330.

For more information please check out our Youtube Channel at this link.

Non Invasive Vascular Laboratory2022-05-23T15:49:54-07:00

Arterial Treatments

2022-05-23T14:56:03-07:00

Arterial Treatments

 

Peripheral Arterial Disease – Treatment

Arterial treatments for the peripheral arterial disease (PAD) has two main goals. One is to manage the symptoms, including leg pain, allowing you to resume your normal physical activities. The second one is to top the progression of atherosclerosis in the body, which reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack.

The good news is that through early intervention, you can achieve these goals through lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking is one of the most significant things you can do to stop the progression of Pad. Walking and exercising regularly following supervised exercise training can improve your symptoms. However, if your peripheral artery disease is at an advanced stage, you will need additional medical treatment. Here are some of the standard peripheral artery disease treatment options available.

Atherectomy

A lower extremity atherectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure involving a catheter to remove plaque from arteries. The doctor usually makes a small incision in the artery to insert the catheter. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to prevent pain. A catheter collects removed plaque in a chamber placed at its tip, ensuring that all the particles are removed from the artery. Depending on the amount of plaque in your arteries, your doctor will repeat the procedure several times to ensure optimal blood flow.

Why Do I Need This Procedure?

The primary goal for the atherectomy is to eliminate plaque buildup in the artery. You may need this procedure when your arteries become too narrowed or blocked due to increased plaque. When the arteries are blocked, blood flow is restricted, meaning that your tissues will not have sufficient oxygen and nourishment they need to survive. Insufficient blood flow causes the muscle in your feet to cramp and lose strength. The procedure is not ideal for all people. Before performing the procedure, the doctors customize to meet the patient’s unique needs. 

Where is the Procedure Performed?

We usually perform the procedure in our facility. Our board of certified doctors have undergone rigorous training to ensure the best possible results. We also have a state-of-the-art facility with modern atherectomy tools that ensure success even for complex conditions. Our doctors also have a vast wealth of experience in this field. Having performed thousands of atherectomy procedures is sure that you are in the right hands. 

How do I Prepare for an Atherectomy?

A few days before the procedure, the doctor usually performs a pre-procedure test to ensure that it is safe for you to undergo the procedure. The doctor may recommend discontinuation of using certain medications days before the procedure. Our healthcare team will also provide you with specific instructions to prepare for the procedure.

 

Arterial Treatments2022-05-23T14:56:03-07:00

What is an Angioplasty

2022-05-23T13:30:46-07:00

Angioplasty

At La Jolla Vein & vascular, we are dedicated to offering our patients various procedures and treatment options. One of those options is called an Angioplasty. It is also called percutaneous transluminal Angioplasty (PTA), Angioplasty is a medical procedure performed using a catheter. A catheter is usually a thin, flexible tube inserted through an artery and guided by imaging to the narrowed section of the artery. Once the tip of the catheter reaches the narrowed section, the small balloon at the end inflates for a short period. The pressure created by the inflated balloon usually presses the plaque against the artery wall. This procedure will help to widen the arteries, restoring normal blood flow.

angioplasty

What to expect with an angioplasty:

After Angioplasty, the doctor usually applies pressure to the area where the procedure was done. The doctor uses bandages or a compression device, which helps prevent bleeding. The nurse will also check on your blood pressure, heart rate, and ensure that the area is not bleeding. The procedure also requires you to lie still while keeping you rleg straight for three to six hours. Sometimes, the nurse may also put a weighted bag on the leg to prevent movement. The procedure may require you to spend the night in our facility. Similar to other invasive surgeries, recovery does not take long. 

 

Why is it done?

Angioplasty is done to widen narrowed arteries and ensure optimal blood flow. The procedure is common in restoring blood flow for the individual’s suffering from peripheral arterial disease. 

How well does it work? 

Angioplasty procedure helps in restoring blood flow and relieves intermittent claudication. The procedure will eliminate the symptoms associated with PAD. Our experienced doctor has vast experience in this field and uses advanced tools to ensure the best results for your condition.

 

What is an Angioplasty2022-05-23T13:30:46-07:00

Symptoms of Pelvic Venous Congestion

2022-05-12T10:49:38-07:00

Symptoms to look for in Chronic Pelvic Venous Congestion

 

Pelvic Venous Congestion also known as (PVCS) is a common venous disease that La Jolla Vein and Vascular is now treating. Most people know varicose veins mostly affect the feet and legs. But varicose veins can also occur in the pelvis causing chronic pelvic pain in women; this condition is known as Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCs) or ovarian vein reflux.

pelvicvenouscongestion

PVC lasts longer than half a year. PVCs are commonly experienced for the first time during or following pregnancy. It is characterized by a heavy aching feeling that may get worse as pregnancy progresses. In most cases, you feel the pain on the left side only. But at other times, you may feel the pain on both the left and right sides. PVCs pain is usually worse during the evenings.

Certain factors also aggravate pelvic venous congestion pain; these include:

  • When you change posture

  • Sex

  • Standing for extended periods

  • Walking

  • Menstrual period

Apart from pelvis pain, other pelvic venous congestion symptoms include:

  • Pain during or after intercourse

  • Sudden urge to urinate

  • Lower back pain

  • Irritable bowel syndrome (diarrhea and constant abdominal pain accompanied with constipation)

  • Deep dyspareunia – pain during intercourse

  • Feeling one’s legs fuller

  • Engorged and distorted veins around the vagina, vulva, inner thigh, buttocks, and sometimes down the legs

pelvic venous congestion

 So, if this is you and you’ve been experiencing pain, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330.

 

For more information please check out our Youtube Channel at this link.

 

Symptoms of Pelvic Venous Congestion2022-05-12T10:49:38-07:00

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