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Sclerotherapy Vs. Foam Sclerotherapy: What’s the Difference?

Sclerotherapy, Varicose Veins

Sclerotherapy Sclerotherapy is a tried and trusted technique used to permanently remove varicose and spider veins. However, this is not the only method used to remove varicose and spider veins. Foam sclerotherapy is also used, but what’s the difference? Well, let’s take a look at the difference between the two and how they are used in varicose vein treatment.

What Does Sclerotherapy Treat?

Sclerotherapy and foam sclerotherapy are both used to treat varicose and spider veins. Varicose veins can look like knotted ropes that bulge from the skin. These veins have been enlarged and are caused by weakened or damaged valves. Varicose veins can cause aching, burning, cramping, itching, and changes in skin color, and patients are often unhappy with their appearance.

Spider veins are similarly caused by damaged and weakened veins but do not come with the same risk factors. Spider veins are small, non-bulging veins that are near the surface and look like spindly purple branches or spider webs. While spider veins are usually asymptomatic, they are often considered undesirable by patients because of their appearance.

Sclerotherapy Vs. Foam Sclerotherapy

Before understanding foam sclerotherapy, it is important to know what sclerotherapy is. Sclerotherapy is a treatment where a chemical solution is injected into a varicose or spider vein to inflame it. This inflammation causes the undesired vein to collapse. While this may seem concerning, it’s an effective way to naturally redirect blood flow and nutrients to other healthier veins. The veins will immediately lose most visibility directly after the procedure and will fully dissipate after a few weeks.

Foam sclerotherapy is nearly identical to sclerotherapy other than the chemicals used to properly close off the affected vein. Both use a liquid sclerosing agent and directly inject it into the vein. However, foam sclerotherapy first whips the sclerosing liquid to increase its thickness and consistency. This technique may be more appropriate for larger varicose veins that need additional thickness.

How Our Team Can Help You!

Whether using foam sclerotherapy or traditional sclerotherapy, it’s important to have it done by a trusted establishment. That’s why Suffolk Vascular and Vein Center has been providing specialized care for over 25 years. Our specialty is with vein and arterial conditions, and that’s why people choose us as one of the leading providers for outpatient management of venous disease and varicose veins. So if you’re struggling with varicose or spider veins and looking for sclerotherapy of any kind, then contact us at 631-476-9100 today.

Do I Need Coronary Bypass Surgery?

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

man wearing glasses standing over pink background smiling with hands on chest with closed eyes A healthy heart plays a critical role in maintaining a robust and healthy body. When your heart function suffers, it can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. One of the more significant problems that patients can experience with their heart health is having a blocked coronary artery. The coronary arteries are responsible for making sure the heart receives its blood supply, helping it to function at its best. A coronary artery failure can be dangerous and require immediate medical intervention. The team of Suffolk Vein & Vascular specializes in treatments that can help address compromised blood flow and help avoid life-threatening complications. Here are a few signs you may need a coronary artery procedure and how our office can help.

Symptoms of Coronary Issues

Your coronary arteries deliver blood and nutrients to the heart, which, in turn, circulates blood throughout your body. Disruptions to this flow can be dangerous because your body is not getting an adequate supply of the oxygen and nutrient-rich blood it needs. Poor circulation in the coronary arteries typically comes from a buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as coronary artery disease.

Patients with coronary artery disease can experience symptoms such as:

  • Chest pain
  • Lightheadedness
  • Nausea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Arm pain

Risk Factors for Coronary Artery Disease

Several factors play a role in patients developing coronary artery disease. For instance, some people have a genetic predisposition to develop the condition. However, some cases of coronary artery disease can result from your lifestyle. Having a diet that is high in cholesterol and salt, being overweight, and smoking are some of the factors that can put you at risk. High blood pressure and diabetes can also increase the likelihood of coronary artery disease.

How We Help

Suffolk Vein and Vascular offer patients the essential and potentially life-saving treatments they need to correct blocked coronaries. Our specialists can implement plans that suit your situation and do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. One such treatment is coronary bypass surgery which clears blockages from coronary arteries and helps restore proper circulation to and from the heart. For more on coronary bypass surgery and if it’s the best treatment for you, please schedule a consultation by calling today at (631) 476-9100.

Can Taking Vitamins Help My Veins?

Vein Disorders, Vein Treatments

Smiling girl with a bottle of vitamins sitting at the kitchen table Many people want to find alternative medicinal strategies to treat various ailments. Some people rely on holistic remedies such as herbs and essential oils to address everyday aches, pains, and illnesses that come with life. One aspect of our health that can be easy to forget about as we age is our vein health, and finding natural remedies for venous diseases can be challenging. Some people believe that taking multivitamins can solve most of their health problems, but the true answer to this question can be complicated. Here at Suffolk Vein and Vascular, we work hard to provide you with comprehensive treatment strategies to help ease your vascular discomfort. If you’re wondering if taking vitamins can help improve your vein health, here are a few things that play a role in the answer and how our offices can help.

Is Your Diet Healthy?

Your diet can play a crucial role in your vein health. A high salt, fat, and cholesterol diet contributes to many vein issues. If you want to take better care of your veins, it’s essential for you to avoid foods such as:

  • Processed meats
  • Fried foods
  • Refined carbohydrates
  • Alcohol
  • Canned goods

Reducing or eliminating these food items can help get you on track toward healthier veins.

Can Multivitamins Do The Trick?

Again, many people believe that multivitamins are the answer to their vein concerns. Although multivitamins can help you access essential minerals your body needs, they aren’t always the answer for treating every condition, especially venous diseases. Research suggests regular consumption of vitamins C, K, and E can help with circulation. However, taking vitamins should not be relied on to treat progressive stages of venous disease.

Treating Poor Vein Health

If you deal with venous issues such as spider veins, varicose veins, and other issues, it’s essential to speak with a professional. Suffolk Vein and Vascular offer patients many minimally-invasive treatments to help you eliminate troublesome and unsightly veins. Also, our professionals can provide the guidance you need to help you make sound lifestyle choices, including diet and exercise to help protect your veins. To learn more about the treatment options at your disposal, please get in touch with us and schedule a consultation at one of our 3 locations by calling us at (631) 476-9100.

Why Do My Veins Hurt?

Vein Disorders

Smiling overweight mid adult woman doing sit ups and looking at the camera. As our bodies change with age, many aches and pains come with it. You may experience more pain in your joints, such as your knees, shoulders, and elbows, as well as other areas of the body. Another change we must be mindful of is how our bodies handle our circulation. In some cases, circulation can change to the point where it is no longer as efficient as it once was, which can cause you to experience sensations of pain. If you’ve been dealing with aching veins, there could be several causes for your discomfort, and our office can help you uncover them.

Here are a few reasons you may be experiencing vascular pain and what we can do to help.

Coronary Artery Disease

If you haven’t led a heart-healthy lifestyle, you may be at risk for developing complications such as Coronary Artery Disease. This condition can have far-reaching effects on the body, such as compromised blood flow. When this happens, it’s a sign that your arteries are narrow, making it more challenging for blood to flow to your heart as it should. If left unchecked, coronary artery disease can expose you to various dangerous symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and heart attack. If you find yourself experiencing symptoms like these, it’s essential to speak with a professional as soon as possible.

Peripheral Artery Disease

Do your legs hurt when you walk? It could signify that you’re experiencing symptoms of peripheral artery disease. Similar to Coronary Artery Disease, Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) also causes the blood vessels to narrow and constrict the flow to the heart. Discomfort is commonly felt in the calf muscles, but patients can experience pain in other parts of the leg, such as in the thighs and hips. If not treated, PAD can lead to gangrene and make amputation necessary.

Obesity

Your weight is another factor that can contribute to problems with circulation. Being obese can cause your circulation to slow down because of increased pressure in your veins from plaque buildup. If your circulation slows down, it can adversely affect your heart and cause complications like a heart attack or heart disease.

The good news is that you have someone in your corner ready to help your circulation perform at its best. Here at Suffolk Vein and Vascular, we specialize in treating many venous deficiencies and can provide you with innovative and minimally invasive treatments to help restore your quality of life. However, the first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our three offices to see what works best for your situation. Please call us at (631) 476-9100 to schedule your consultation.

Treating Pelvic Varicose Veins

Pelvic Varicose Veins, Varicose Veins

uti pain sitting on bed in bedroom Varicose veins can be an unsightly problem for many people. In most instances, varicose veins present themselves on the legs of those who suffer from them. Many treatments help patients deal with varicose veins in their legs, so finding varicose veins in unusual places, such as the pelvis can be unsettling.

While it may seem like pelvic varicose veins are challenging to treat, Suffolk Vein and Vascular has strategies to help address the issue to help you look and feel your best. Here are a few causes for pelvic varicose veins and how we can treat them.

Causes of Pelvic Varicose Veins

Pelvic varicose veins come as a surprise to many people and have several causes. One of the common reasons that pelvic varicose veins present themselves is from being overweight. Rapid weight gain can create additional pressure on the veins that surround the pelvis. The extra stress causes blood to pool in the veins, expanding and weakening the venous walls. After this, the enlarged veins become visible underneath the skin, presenting as pelvic varicose veins.

Another factor that can cause pelvic varicose veins is pregnancy. 

Pelvic varicose veins can present themselves during pregnancy for several reasons. Among the most common are the rapid weight gain and hormonal changes that expected mothers experience while carrying their unborn babies. Also, pregnant women can develop varicose veins from increased blood flow and additional pressure on the body’s most prominent vein, the inferior vena cava (IFC).

Other cases of pelvic varicose veins include genetics, prolonged sitting, and repeated pregnancies.

Treating Pelvic Varicose Veins

Pelvic varicose veins come with many symptoms, some of which can be debilitating enough to disrupt your quality of life. Although pelvic varicose veins are rarely life-threatening, they can be uncomfortable. Symptoms of pelvic varicose veins can include

  • Mood Swings 
  • Fatigue
  • Severe pain during menstruation
  • Back pain
  • Vaginal discharge

If you suffer from pelvic varicose veins, our office is happy to help. We offer a minimally invasive procedure called embolization to eliminate unhealthy veins. The procedure eliminates the vein by injecting a solution that causes the diseased vein to collapse and be absorbed by the body slowly. Once this happens, healthy veins replace the diseased vein in circulation, restoring healthy blood flow.

An embolization procedure typically takes around 30 minutes to complete, allowing you to resume normal activities quickly. The results of an embolization procedure can vary, but many patients have a positive response to treatment.

If you want to learn more about embolization for your pelvic varicose veins, please reach out to our office. Schedule a consultation at one of our 3 locations by calling us today at (631) 476-9100.

Why Are My Veins Aching?

Vein Disorders

woman drinking coffee wearing knitted nordic print poncho sitting home by the window It can be unsettling to experience pain in your veins. Whether the discomfort is mild or severe, it can be worrisome not to know the reason why you’re in pain. Several conditions could be culprits behind your discomfort, and identifying the right one is a crucial first step in your recovery. If you’ve experienced pain in your veins, here are a few possible causes and what you can do to treat them.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency 

The veins are essential in circulating oxygen-rich blood and nutrients throughout the body. Sometimes, the veins struggle to move blood properly, causing it to flow backward toward the extremities, compromising your body’s ability to receive nutrients. This condition is known as Chronic Venous Insufficiency or CVI. Chronic Venous Insufficiency can cause pressure to build in your veins, making them ache, burn, or itch.

CVI requires many lifestyle changes combined with therapy and medications to help restore normal blood flow.

Peripheral Artery Disease

Another condition that can cause trouble is peripheral artery disease. Several factors can contribute to developing peripheral artery disease, which can include

  • Age
  • Injury to the arms or legs
  • Coronary artery disease (CAD)
  • Atherosclerosis 

PAD can compromise blood flow, causing your organs to miss out on oxygen and essential nutrients. Those who suffer from PAD site pain as one of the significant symptoms that they experience. Typical methods for diagnosing PAD begin with a physical exam from your doctor to assess your symptoms. Next, your doctor may use a doppler flow, angiogram, or other tools to determine if your symptoms are consistent with PAD.

Deep Vein Thrombosis 

Have you had sudden severe headaches and aches in your arms and legs? It could indicate a severe underlying issue called Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT. Deep vein thrombosis symptoms require immediate attention to keep dangerous complications at bay. If left untreated, DVT can lead to 

  • Seizures
  • Abdominal pain
  • Enlarged veins
  • Discolored skin

Many cases of DVT present themselves in patients who have a family history of the condition, and your doctor can perform a series of tests to confirm a diagnosis and design a treatment plan that fits your needs, such as medications and compression therapy.

Do you have questions about your vein health? We would love to help! Please schedule a consultation at any of our three locations by calling us today at (631) 476-9100.

Sclerotherapy Vs. Foam Therapy: Which is Better?

Sclerotherapy

Varicose veins on a legs of woman If you have varicose veins, the is a strong chance that you’re looking for the most effective means to get rid of them. The rise of modern medicine has given rise to many treatments for varicose veins, such as sclerotherapy. 

Procedures like sclerotherapy consist of methods designed to collapse varicose veins safely and help your body eliminate the vein on its own. But a new form of sclerotherapy called Foam Sclerotherapy has caused a debate among patients that want to know which one is more effective at treating varicose veins. If you’re wondering which treatment is better, here are a few things you should know about each and if one may be the best treatment for you.

How Traditional Sclerotherapy Works

Traditional sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to help relieve varicose veins. During the procedure, you receive an injection of a solution into the troublesome vein, causing its blood to reroute to other veins. After a few weeks, the vein collapses and eventually fades.

The procedure typically takes under an hour to complete without the need for anesthesia, and you can return home after a short observation period.

How Foam Sclerotherapy Works

Foam sclerotherapy works in a similar way to traditional sclerotherapy, as it also involves injecting a solution into varicose veins. But, there are crucial differences between the two. For instance, foam sclerotherapy involves injecting a foam solution into the vein to reduce its size. Also, foam sclerotherapy is generally used to treat more prominent varicose veins.

Foam sclerotherapy is also completed as an outpatient procedure and can help you get back to your regular activities quickly. 

Which One Works Better?

Based on the severity of your varicose veins, your doctor can help determine which treatment may offer you the most noticeable results. Some people believe that foam sclerotherapy gives them better results because they report rapid improvement of symptoms and feel that varicose veins disappear more quickly. But, it’s worth noting that these results can widely vary and should not be taken as the standard.

Whether treatment is more successful depends on your case, symptoms, and how your body responds to treatment.

A crucial part of finding out what is best for you begins with speaking with a qualified professional. 

Please call our office to learn more about your varicose vein treatment options. Schedule a consultation at one of our 3 locations by calling us at (631) 476-9100.

Tackling Lymphedema

Lymphedema

Lymphatic drainage massage LPG apparatus process. Our lymphatic system plays a pivotal role in helping you stay healthy. The lymph nodes comprise part of the lymphatic system and help drain excess fluid from your body. Sometimes, the lymph nodes struggle to reduce the extra liquid, resulting in a debilitating condition called lymphedema. The visible manifestations of the illness can destroy your confidence and take a toll on your body. Here are a few points on how lymphedema starts and what you can do to get your health on track.

How does Lymphedema Start?

Many factors can cause lymphedema to develop. For instance, some cancer treatments involve removing the lymph nodes to help fight the disease but can compromise fluid drainage, resulting in the swelling associated with lymphedema.

Other causes of lymphedema include:

  • Radiation-based cancer treatments
  • Parasitic infections
  • Obesity
  • Kidney disease
  • Venous insufficiency

Symptoms of Lymphedema

How quickly lymphedema develops depends on the person. In some cases, lymphedema develops over time but can progress rapidly in other situations. 

Several signs may indicate the presence of lymphedema, such as thickening skin, swelling in the arms and legs, puffiness, or noticing your extremities are different sizes.

Diagnosing Lymphedema

Your healthcare professional can help determine if lymphedema has caused your symptoms. After a physical exam, your doctor may order tests to get a closer look at your organs by using an 

  • MRI
  • Ultrasound
  • CT Scan
  • A Lymphoscintigraphy (A test to check for irregularities in the Lymph Nodes)

Your doctor can help find the best testing method for your needs.

Is Lymphedema Dangerous?

As a chronic illness, lymphedema is not usually life-threatening. But, maintaining adequate drainage is essential to managing your symptoms.

You may also need to change your daily routine by avoiding tight clothing, adopting a healthy diet, and getting exercise to help keep fluid moving through your body. But make sure you get your doctor’s advice before starting a new exercise regimen.

How is Lymphedema Treated?

Treatments for lymphedema can vary based on how the condition originates and its progression. For instance, doctors may treat cancer-related lymphedema differently than others. 

Also, elevating the limbs can help resolve mild lymphedema, but more advanced cases require more intense intervention. 

If you have questions about lymphedema treatment, don’t hesitate to call one of our 3 locations. Schedule your consultation with Suffolk Vein and Vascular by calling us at (631) 476-9100.

Preparing For Bypass Surgery

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

happy smiling dreamy lovely granny hold hands chest The thought of heart surgery can be scary. Uncertainty about the procedure and your life afterward can make for an intimidating idea. But, with preparation, you can help ease your concerns and prepare for a healthy life after your procedure.

Why Bypass Surgery Is Necessary

For many reasons, the arteries surrounding your heart can become clogged with plaque, making it harder for your heart to pump blood through your body. Clogged arteries can have severe consequences on your health, including high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.

Clogged arteries also increase your risk of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).

CAD can result in symptoms such as:

  • Chest pain
  • Abnormal heart rhythm
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling in the feet and hands
  • Fatigue

It’s worth noting that some people don’t experience symptoms of CAD in its early stages, but the disease can still progress to lead to a heart attack from the blockage.

How to Prepare

Asking your doctor questions is crucial to ease concerns about bypass surgery. Your doctor can answer your questions and explain the details of your procedure. Also, your doctor gives you a thorough exam to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery. Along with following your doctor’s advice, there are several steps you can take to prepare. First, quitting smoking before your procedure can help. Chemicals from cigarettes can create fatty deposits in your arteries and contribute to the problem.

Next, make a trip to your dentist. Since heart and oral health share a surprising connection, you may need clearance from your dentist before your procedure. Bacteria from gum disease can create problems for your heart. Your dentist can examine you can write a clearance letter to confirm your oral health.

Also, preparing your family and friends is crucial to aid in your recovery. For the first few weeks after your procedure, you will need help to complete tasks such as cooking, bathing, and changing bandages.

Bypass surgery is an essential tool to help restore your health. Preparing for your procedure can help you deal with concerns before and after surgery. If you want to learn more, please reach out to Suffolk Vein and Vascular. Schedule a consultation today by calling (631) 476-9100 to reach any of our 3 locations.

Can TIA Be Prevented?

Transient Ischemic Attack

doctor team diagnose brain stroke and blood vessels x ray image for analysis Keeping your blood flow in order is crucial to maintaining good health. Your blood flow handles carrying oxygen-rich blood and nutrients to your organs. Compromised blood flow to your brain can have devastating effects on your health. A transient ischemic attack is an interruption in blood flow to your brain. This condition can be sudden and life-threatening. But, several steps can help prevent a transient ischemic attack from happening. Here are the signs you should look for and what you can do to protect yourself.

Is TIA the Same As A Stroke?

Transient ischemic attacks are often called mini-strokes or warning strokes. Both conditions are similar as they both interrupt blood flow to the brain. But, TIA differs from a stroke because the symptoms don’t last as long as a stroke’s symptoms. Also, the blockages that cause TIA are temporary and leave no permanent damage. But, if you’ve suffered from TIA, it could mean that a stroke may happen soon.

What Causes TIA?

A primary cause of a transient ischemic attack is plaque buildup in the arteries. The buildup occurs in the area responsible for delivering oxygen to the brain. Plaque buildup can slow down blood flow and cause a blood clot to form and travel to the brain.

What Are The Symptoms of Tia?

TIA and stroke symptoms are similar. But the difference is TIA symptoms usually resolve after about an hour. Symptoms of TIA can include

  • Slurred speech
  • Loss of balance
  • Paralysis on one side of the body
  • Blindness

Although TIA symptoms don’t last long, you should still seek medical attention immediately.

How Can TIA be Prevented?

Contributors to TIA are poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and regular drinking. One of the most effective ways to avoid TIA is to watch your cardiovascular health.

Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, drinking less, and a healthy diet can help.

Working with your doctor can help you find the best treatment method to reduce your risk of TIA and stroke.

If you have questions about TIA, Suffolk Vein and Vascular Center can help. We serve the Port Jefferson Station, Hauppauge, and Riverhead areas. Schedule a consultation today by calling us at one of our 3 locations (631) 476-9100 (Port Jefferson Station), (631) 979-0222 (Hauppauge), or (631) 591-9003 (Riverhead).

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