Don't forget the "medi" in medi-spa

There are more than 4,200 so-called "medi-spas" in the U.S. Some of them offer facials and massages, while others offer vein procedures or cosmetic enhancements like Botox or dermabrasion. But is it safe?

In our latest issue of Vein Health News, we take a look at these businesses where aesthetics meets medicine. We also offer some good advice on how to make sure that you're not wasting your money, or worse, putting your health at risk.

If you have questions about vein procedures and safety, please ask us! Call the Vein Healthcare Center at 207-221-7799 (Monday through Friday during regular business hours), or send us an email at info@veinhealthcare.com.

The latest issue of Vein Health News!

We've released the latest issue of Vein Health News! 

In the cover story “Skin: Dermatological Changes & Vein Health” we explore how vein specialists use the clues in skin -- everything from color and thickness, to visible spider veins and ulcers -- to help diagnose a patient's vein disorders. 

We also take a look at "medi-spas" and how consumers can choose their aesthetic procedures and practitioners wisely -- and why they should.

In the same issue, we share updates in the world of compression and even give illustrated tips for getting compression stockings on and off with ease. 

Click here to read all this and more. If you would like more information about skin, vein health and the right treatment for you, give us a ring or drop us a line at the Vein Healthcare Center.

You can call 207-221-7799 (Monday through Friday during regular business hours), or send us an email at info@veinhealthcare.com.

Compression After Laser Treatment

In our last post we discussed the value of graduated compression stockings before an EVLA procedure. Now we turn to the use of compression after vein treatment. 

Graduated compression after EVLA has been proven to decrease swelling, a common outcome associated with the procedure. Additional benefits for the patient are decreased discomfort, potentially decreased risk of blood clots, and potentially decreased risk of pigmentation, or staining of the skin.

Immediately following an EVLA procedure, patients are asked to put on their compression stockings. Vein specialists will ask patients to wear compression stockings for the first two weeks following EVLA treatment, any time the patient is on her or his feet. (Compression stockings are also prescribed following sclerotherapy treatment, usually for between five days and two weeks.) Graduated compression stockings should never be worn to bed.

Compression is critical for the most efficient and effective healing process.

Changes in the skin

Did you know that changes in the skin might be a clue to venous disease?

If you notice redness around the ankles, see other color changes on your legs, or find that your skin has become harder or thicker in the lower leg, it’s likely you are experiencing a common symptom of venous disease. These skin changes can be mild, or they can cause pain and involve larger areas of the skin.

Other skin changes, such as dermatitis (inflammation of the skin), cellulitis (bacterial skin infection), dry or scaly skin, or brown “stains” on the skin, can be signs of advanced venous disease.

If you do observe these types of changes—especially if you are experiencing other vein symptoms, such as aching or throbbing legs, or if vein problems run in your family—consider talking to your primary care doctor, or visiting a physician who specializes in vein health.