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Vein Research
Did you ever wonder where the media gets their news regarding the latest developments in medical research? They have staff writers who review press releases and summaries of recent research that is either published in a prominent medical journal or presented at a national medical meeting. The original research is published using technical medical language (otherwise known as “jargon”) which is often difficult for non-medical people to understand. This can result in a “lost in translation” effect, in which the “take-home message” for the general public is less than obvious.
What does this mean for my veins?
The purpose of my blog, “Vein Research – What does this mean for my veins”, is to review current published medical research from established, verified sources, that I read and then distil the information that is relevant to the care of my patients and the general public, free of medical jargon, and written in non-technical language. I choose the research articles myself based upon whether, in my opinion, there is an easily understood and important message to convey.
Earlier in my career, I spent many years in academic medicine publishing my own medical research in the field of vascular surgery, and I also served as a reviewer of other’s research for a medical journal. This has given me a good understanding of the process of medical research publication, an appreciation for how these publications are worded for medical professionals, and how I can use my background to curate and “interpret” the research findings in a relevant and understandable manner.
As the reader, I hope you will find the information to be helpful. And as a disclaimer, the information presented here represents my opinion and is not to be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your own physician, or consider making an appointment to see us before making any medical decisions.
Spider veins are a common concern, especially on the legs and face—whether due to discomfort or how they affect appearance. These thin red, blue, or purple lines sit just beneath the skin and often become more noticeable over time. While they’re usually not dangerous, they can be bothersome, both cosmetically...
Spider veins often show up on the lower legs, ankles, and feet—areas that carry the most pressure throughout the day. While small, these veins can cause more than just cosmetic concerns. For some individuals, they lead to itching, burning, or discomfort that worsens after long periods of standing. Others feel...
Varicose veins can be more than just a cosmetic concern; they often bring uncomfortable side effects such as aching, swelling, and a heavy sensation in the legs. These symptoms can make daily activities challenging and cause frustration for those affected. If you’re tired of dealing with the discomfort and appearance...
Tired of looking in the mirror and seeing tired eyes staring back? You’re not alone. Those pesky under-eye wrinkles can add years to your appearance and make you feel less confident. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Fortunately, there are effective treatments to help you achieve smoother, more youthful...
When was the last time you felt confident wearing shorts or skirts during the summer without feeling self-conscious about varicose veins? We understand how frustrating it can be to deal with pain, swelling, and the way varicose veins make you feel about your legs. The good news is that you...
Imagine being able to slip into that swimsuit with confidence or take that long walk without the nagging ache of varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is a proven treatment that can transform the way you look and feel. It’s a safe, effective, and minimally invasive way to address both the cosmetic concerns...
If you’re experiencing varicose veins, you may be curious about home remedies for relief. The good news is that some simple steps can help manage mild symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. However, it’s important to understand that home remedies may not be enough for everyone, especially if your...
Aging is a natural process that we all experience, and with it comes a few inevitable changes—wrinkles being one of them. Forehead wrinkles, often referred to as “11 lines,” can make you look older or more stressed than you feel. But what causes these lines, and what can you do...
Do those bulging, twisted veins in your legs make you self-conscious? Are you tired of the constant aching, heaviness, or throbbing pain? If so, you’re not alone. Varicose veins affect millions of people, but they don’t have to control your life. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover everything you need...
Tired of dealing with aching legs, bulging veins, and feeling self-conscious? You’re not alone. Imagine feeling lighter on your feet, enjoying activities without pain, and wearing what you want confidently. Vein treatments today are advanced and more comfortable than ever. If you’re ready to explore solutions, this guide is for...
Diet and exercise got you this far, but those last stubborn pockets of fat cling on for dear life? SculpSure could be your solution. This innovative, non-invasive treatment permanently melts away unwanted fat, leaving you sculpted and confident. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of what SculpSure...
Hormones play a powerful role in your energy levels, mood, sleep, and even your weight. If you’ve been grappling with low libido, persistent fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, or other enduring symptoms, a hormonal imbalance could be the culprit. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), specifically BioTE, offers a personalized solution...
Did you know that hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in our skin, decreases as we age? This leads to wrinkles and volume loss. If you’re looking for a non-surgical way to minimize wrinkles and achieve a youthful glow, Restylane fillers might be the perfect solution. Restylane fillers cleverly replenish hyaluronic...
Varicose veins – those twisted, enlarged veins that often pop up on our legs – can be more than just a cosmetic concern. Many individuals experience discomfort and pain associated with varicose veins, impacting not only their appearance but also their overall well-being. In this article, we’ll delve into the...
What does that mean for my veins? Since the FDA approval of a commercially-prepared formulation of polidocanol foam (PEM – polidocanol endovenous microfoam), PEM has been commonly used to treat varicose veins of the legs. The doctors who authored this research publication studied their results with PEM treatment of varicose...
What does that mean for my veins? So what is the “anterior accessory great saphenous vein”, and why did I choose this paper to summarize for you? Well I’m glad you asked! First of all, the “anterior accessory great saphenous vein” is one of the leg veins that can cause...
What does that mean for my veins? In this study, Dr. Kathleen Gibson and her other physician co-investigators evaluated the effectiveness of a new technique to treat abnormal leg veins that can be the cause of venous ulcers using a small laser fiber placed through a tiny needle to close...
What does that mean for my veins? This research study addresses the problem of bleeding from varicose veins. Thankfully, this is a very uncommon problem, but when it occurs the bleeding can be quite dramatic, and in some cases life-threatening. At the very busy Vascular Institute of New York in...
What does that mean for my veins? In this research study the physicians compared two different “schools of thought” regarding varicose leg vein treatment – should the varicose veins be treated with a more simple approach where only the main source of the varicose veins is treated, or should this...
What does that mean for my veins? The most commonly used method for treating varicose veins of the leg is called “ablation”, which is a technique by which a small plastic tube (catheter) is inserted into the abnormal vein under local anesthesia and with ultrasound guidance, and generally performed in...
If you have varicose veins and make an appointment to be seen at a “vein center”, you probably assume that you will be evaluated and treated by a physician, and one with board certification in a vascular specialty, right? Well, not necessarily. These days “vein centers” are popping up all...
After reading my previous post on this topic, “Who is treating your veins?”, you now have a better understanding of the higher level of vascular expertise, experience, and formal training that is available from the vascular board certified physicians at Carolina Vein Care compared to physicians and non-physician providers at...
Noninvasive body contouring treatments and systems can help melt stubborn fat deposits that you’ve been trying to get rid of in the gym for ages. Even if you maintain a regular exercise plan and consume a healthy diet, pockets of stubborn and unwanted fat remain. SculpSure is a nonsurgical method...
Millions of adults experience varicose veins at some point throughout their lifetime. Malfunctioning veins caused by venous disease can take place for a variety of reasons, including being overweight, the excess pressure of on the body due to pregnancy, or poor blood flow throughout the body. Genetics also play a...
As the number of vein centers has increased, we see more and more patients who have had treatment and are now coming to see us, because they weren’t pleased with their results. Unsuspecting patients see an ad and make an appointment, thinking that they will see a vein specialist. They...
With the warmer weather we’re all wearing shorts or a dress that show more of our legs, so now is the time to get those varicose veins treated. Both men and women experience varicose veins which are not just a cosmetic issue. Varicose veins frequently cause leg pain, swelling, and...
