MOTHER'S DAY SALE 50% OFF LASER CLINIC

6, 7, 2022

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

What could be causing your varicose veins?

2022-12-13T14:16:03-08:00

What are varicose veins? 

Varicose veins are the twisted, bulging veins just beneath the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the surface of the skin. These veins usually occur in the legs, but they also can form in other parts of the body. Varicose veins are a common condition.

Who gets them and why.

Both women and men can develop vein disorders at any age.  It can affect the healthiest of individuals, but there are some conditions that increase your risk of developing varicose veins.  They are mostly inherited; if both of your parents had varicose veins, you have a 90% chance of also having them.  Other factors that increase your chance of developing vein disorders include being female, hormonal changes, pregnancy, getting older, having a job that requires many hours standing or sitting, being overweight, and history of leg injuries. Some of the causes of varicose veins are listed below: 

  • Increasing age. As you get older, the valves in your veins may weaken and not work as well.
  • Heredity. Being born with weak vein valves increases your risk. Having family members with vein problems also increases your risk. About half of all people who have these this type of venous reflux disease have a family member who has them too.
  • Hormonal changes. These occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Taking birth control pills and other medicines containing estrogen and progesterone also may contribute to the forming of varicose or spider veins.
  • Pregnancy. The hormones during pregnancy greatly influence the leg veins. These veins can even be a symptom of pregnancy and can show up during the first trimester. As pregnancy progresses, there is a huge increase in the amount of blood in the body. This can cause veins to enlarge. The growing uterus also puts pressure on the veins. Varicose veins usually improve within 3 months after delivery. More varicose veins and spider veins usually appear with each additional pregnancy.
  • Obesity. Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on your veins. This can lead to varicose veins.
  • Lack of movement. Sitting or standing for a long time may force your veins to work harder to pump blood to your heart. This may be a bigger problem if you sit with your legs bent or crossed.
  • Leg Injuries

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. 

What could be causing your varicose veins?2022-12-13T14:16:03-08:00

28, 6, 2022

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

2022-05-23T16:33:51-07:00

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

 

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an interventional radiology procedure used to treat knee pain due to osteoarthritis. The procedure minimizes the flow of blood to the knee lining (synovium). Osteoarthritis causes the bones in the knee joint to rub each other, creating friction. This leads to increased flow of blood to the knee due to inflammation. Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a relatively new and effective minimally invasive procedure that is ideal for people with;

 

  • Mild to severe knee osteoarthritis
  • People who have not responded to medication, injections, and therapy
  • People who are not read to undergo partial or complete knee replacement surgery

 

While the procedure does not treat the underlying cartilage damage, it effectively treats the symptoms associated with knee arthritis. Additionally, unlike knee surgery, physical therapy is unnecessary after undergoing the Genicular artery embolization (GAE) procedure.

 

Aftercare and Recovery

 

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an outpatient procedure performed with moderate ‘twilight’ sedation, meaning that the patient does not need to speed the night in the hospital. The surgeon usually uses x-ray imaging to make an incision in the groin to access the femoral artery. After making the incision, the surgeon will insert a catheter into the femoral artery, which carries the blood to your knee lining.

 

The catheter injects tiny beads into the arteries to block them and reduces blood flow to the area of inflammation. Reduced blood flow alleviates inflammation, pain, and discomfort associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA). During the procedure, the surgeon usually views the patient’s leg images in real-time, making them precise and effective. The procedure does not take long when compared to other knee surgeries. While the Genicular artery embolization (GAE) length mainly depends on the damage extent, it takes about 1-2 hours to complete the procedure.

 

Before the procedure, your doctor will brief you on everything you need to know about the procedure. Your doctor will ask you questions regarding your previous surgeries, current/previous medical conditions, and if you are taking any medications. If you take blood-thinning medications or products containing aspirin, the doctor will also issue instructions on discontinuing the medication before the Genicular artery embolization (GAE ) procedure.

 

You are advised to reach the medical facility early enough to prepare for the procedure. The doctor will ask you to remove the clothes over your knee area and to wear a gown. You will also receive sedation to reduce any discomfort or pain associated with the procedure. The procedure does not require general anesthesia, meaning you will be awake during the procedure. The sedative works to numb the affected area only. It will help if you bring a relative or friend to drive you home after the procedure. It takes time for the sedative to wear out. Of course, you would not want to drive while your leg is partly numb.

 

Genicular artery embolization (GAE ) procedure, meaning that you will return home the same day. Typically, you will start experiencing pain and discomfort relief in 2-3 weeks as the inflammation of the knee lining reduces. While some patients have reported pain relief almost immediately after the procedure, it is not always the case.

 

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)2022-05-23T16:33:51-07:00

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

Pelvic Venous Congestion Treatment

2022-05-23T15:15:40-07:00

Pelvic Venous Congestion (PVCS) Treatment

What are the treatment options for Pelvic Venous Congestion (PVCs)? Available treatment options for PVCs include pain-relieving progestin hormone drugs, ovarian function-blocking Gonadotropin-releasing hormones, vein embolization, and surgery to rid of damaged veins, uterus, and ovaries. Customarily, your doctor will start you on the medications first to relieve pain. If the medications fail, then they may advise on the next step, usually the invasive options. Vein embolization is the most commonly used procedure. Here’s a look at what it involves:

-Pelvic Venous Embolization

-Sclerotherapy

-Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

pelvic venous congestion

 

Pelvic Venous Embolization

Treating PVCS diseases like pelvic and labial varicose veins requires resolving the backward flow of blood in the ovarian and pelvic veins through embolization. Embolization is an outpatient procedure that uses catheter technology to access the venous system to the problematic ovarian veins. The procedure is painless and requires no major incisions. The physician embolizes each problem vein (blocking blood flow) with vascular plugs or coils. Doing so permanently seals off the varicose veins, diverting blood flow up through healthy veins. The physician will also deliver sclerosing medication to lower the pressure in the pelvic veins and relieve the pain. Once blood can flow smoothly through healthy veins in the pelvic and labial area, the pain disappears. Patients can usually return to work and light activities the day following the procedure and see a full recovery in about one week; at least 7 in 10 women who undergo the procedure report feeling better. This procedure is usually performed by a trained interventional radiologist in the X-ray department.

 

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that injects sclerosing solutions into the veins. It is used to treat spider, reticular and varicose veins. It also blocks the unsightly or non-functioning veins to gradually improve appearance. This generally involves multiple treatments over the course of several months for pelvic venous congestion. 

Radiofrequency Ablation is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to treat varicose veins. An RFA utilizes high-frequency radio waves directed through a thin tube to create intense heat within the varicose vein. This closes up the problem vessel so blood cannot flow through it, redirecting blood flow into healthy veins to allow the blood to return to the heart. Eliminating the unhealthy vein reduces the vein bulging and minimizes leg pain and swelling. It is performed as an outpatient procedure with minimal recovery and discomfort.

 

When Should I Contact My Doctor?

Some women have enlarged veins with no symptoms; others have enlarged veins that cause pains and aches. In most cases, these don’t require a medical emergency. The symptoms should reduce as you head into menopause. However, in case of chronic, unbearable pain, nothing is stopping you from seeking medical help. In fact, see your healthcare giver right away for help.

To get the most out of the pelvic venous congestion consultation, here’s what to do:

-Know the purpose of the visit and what you want to get from it

-Before visiting the doctor, put down questions you need them to answer.

-Bring company along to help ask questions and note down points from the doctor.

-Write down the name of the diagnosis, its tests, and treatment options explained by the doctor. -Also, take notes of any new instructions during each visit.

-Know the reasons for new medication prescriptions, their benefits, and their risks.

-Inquire whether it’s possible to treat your condition another way

-Know why and what the results of a test procedure mean

-Ask what will happen if you don’t undergo testing or take medication.

-Ask whether a follow-up appointment is available and note down the visit’s time, date, and reason.

-Ask the doctor for their contacts in case you need a further chat.

 

 For more information on pelvic venous congestion 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.

Pelvic Venous Congestion Treatment2022-05-23T15:15:40-07:00

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

Causes of Osteoarthritis

2022-05-13T17:16:22-07:00

Causes Of Osteoarthritis (OA)

 

Although Knee Osteoarthritis affects as many as 45 percent of people in their lifetime, the exact cause is unknown. However, medical practitioners have discovered several risks that increase the chances of developing knee osteoarthritis. These include:

Advanced Age

Obesity

Joint Trauma

Family History

Congenital Disabilities or Illnesses

Chronic Injury and Joint Stress

Lack of Exercise

Poor Muscle Tone

Female Sex

 

Advanced Age

Your susceptibility to developing osteoarthritis increases with age. As you grow old, the cartilage in the knee joint wears down, making it prone to damage and thinning. According to research done by the Arthritis Foundation, about 19 percent of people over 45 years have knee OA. The research further indicates that 37 percent of people over 60 years have the condition, although not all will have the symptoms.

 

Obesity

The knees support the weight from the thighs upwards. Obese people are at two times more risk of developing knee arthritis than individuals who are not.

 

Joint Trauma

Surgery, a broken bone, or severe injuries that affect the knee joint can also lead to knee osteoarthritis. These symptoms may not be present immediately after the injuries but may reveal years later.

 

Family History

Hereditary genes also play a crucial role in the susceptibility of knee arthritis. For instance, if your mother had knee OA, you are more likely to develop the condition than people with no family history of the condition are.

 

Congenital Disabilities or Illnesses

Septic arthritis, gout, poor bone alignment, congenital conditions, and metabolic disorder can also increase your susceptibility to contracting knee arthritis.

 

Chronic Injury and Joint Stress

Individuals whose daily activities involve heavy lifting while standing, crawling, or squatting tend to experience mini-traumas. These mini traumas can lead to knee osteoarthritis over time—bodybuilders and other athletes who participate in high-impact sports are prone to knee osteoarthritis development.

 

Lack of Exercise

Although putting too much stress on your knee joint can lead to arthritis, lack of exercise can also cause OA. Exercise helps in boosting the cartilage’s health and repair. Additionally, the knee joints contain fluid-rich nutrients that need to be circulated in the knee joint capsule. Regular exercise promotes proper circulation of the joint fluid.

 

Poor Muscle Tone

Poor hamstring, calf, and quadriceps muscle development can put more stress on the knee’s bones and cartilage, causing knee osteoarthritis.

 

Female Sex

Research shows that women are about 40 percent more likely to develop knee arthritis than men are.

 

 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. 

 

Causes of Osteoarthritis2022-05-13T17:16:22-07:00

Signs of Osteoarthritis

2022-05-30T13:29:11-07:00

For most people, the knee osteoarthritis symptoms come and go, worsening over time. While it is easy to dismiss early knee OA signs and symptoms, the symptoms become worse if left untreated, causing mobility issues. 

 

Some of the common OA signs and symptoms include:

 

Knee Pain: Knee pain is the most reported OA symptom. The pain description often varies from one person to the other depending on their condition and situation. Sometimes the pain may come and go, while the person may experience chronic low levels of pain with intermittent intense pain flare-ups. On the other hand, you may experience a dull, aching. Most often, knee OA pain gets worse, especially when doing activities that put a strain on the knee, such as walking upstairs or squatting.

 

Swelling: Damaged cartilage causes the femur and tibia bones to rub together, leading to irritation. The irritation forces the body to produce excess fluid at the joint, making the knee swell.

 

Stiffness: The swelling and friction in the knee make the joint stiff. You may often experience 30 minutes of stiffness after sitting for an extended period or early in the morning. Knee stiffness can also be accompanied by reduced motion range and visible swelling.

 

Redness and Warmth: The irritation develops when the knee joint’s bones rub each other causing the skin over the knee to become warm and red. These signs could also indicate an infection that requires medical attention.

 

Reduced Range of Motion: The swelling in the knee limits your range of motion. Mild to moderate knee OA makes it hard for you to bend or straighten the knee completely.

Worsening Symptoms with Inactivity

Your knees tend to become stiff after long periods of sitting or sleeping. In most cases, you will notice pain and stiffness after waking up in the morning or sitting for long hours.

 

Popping or Crunching: A popping or crunching sound when bending your knee indicates knee joint friction.

 

Buckling or Locking Up: People with moderate to severe knee OA can also cause a sensation of knee-buckling. The sensation develops when there are uneven flaps or grooves, or cartilage breaks off and sticks in the joint.

 

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

 

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

 

Signs of Osteoarthritis2022-05-30T13:29:11-07:00

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Varicosities?

2022-05-12T12:52:12-07:00

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Varicosities?

As highlighted above, pelvic congestion syndrome, also can be pelvic varicosities, can manifest in varying ways. As a result, there’s no one standard sign or symptom associated with the condition.

However, many women suffering from pelvic varicosities report a dull but recurring pain. While the pain may come and go, certain factors and situations can worsen the pain. Some of the situations that could lead to chronic pain include;

  • Standing up for extended periods of time
  • Sitting for long or remaining inactive
  • The period leading to menstruation
  • In the evenings
  • In the mid or late stages of a pregnancy
  • During or after sexual intercourse

While pain is the most recorded symptom associated with labial varicosities, some women also note a different combination of recurring symptoms. These are likely influenced by the severity and advancement of the condition. Other pelvic congestion syndrome symptoms include;

  • Experiencing overly painful menstruation (commonly called dysmenorrhea)
  • Excessive or abnormal bleeding during menstruation
  • Swelling of the vulva or vagina
  • Irritable bowel syndromes
  • Backache
  • Fatigue
  • Increased urination
  • Depression
  • Hip pain
  • Change in the vaginal discharge
  • The appearance of varicose veins around the legs, buttocks, and vulva
  • Abdominal tenderness

Whether alone or part of a combination, you should consult a doctor if you notice these symptoms. This will help rule out any conditions, and if it is indeed a pelvic congestion disorder such as pelvic varicosities, they can begin the treatment process.

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. 

 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Varicosities?2022-05-12T12:52:12-07:00
NEW LJVV Logo WEB

CONTACT INFORMATION

La Jolla/UTC

Vista

Patient Privacy Practices

Privacy Policy

Hippa Privacy Practices
HIPAAOneTM Certified Seal 2

Use the search features below to find articles and insights for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT SAN DIEGO

La Jolla/ UTC

North County San Diego/ Vista
Now Open! Call/Text for Appointments

© Copyright 2010-2025, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

CONTACT INFORMATION

La Jolla/UTC

Vista

Patient Privacy Practices

Privacy Policy

Hippa Privacy Practices
HIPAAOneTM Certified Seal 2

Use the search features below to find articles and insights for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT SAN DIEGO

La Jolla/ UTC

North County San Diego/ Vista — Endovascular Center
Now Open! Call/Text for Appointments

© Copyright 2010-2024, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

Toggle Sliding Bar Area

informacion en español

Visita nuestra página en español

https://ljvascular.com/informacion-en-espanol/

Go to Top