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  What are Varicose Veins?

  Some of us have more prominent veins than others. But when your veins appear swollen, twisted, or darkly colored, you may be suffering from varicose veins. Varicose veins affect 1 in 4 adults and can range from merely unsightly to downright dangerous. But what exactly are varicose veins, and what can be done about them? What Causes Varicose Veins? In the simplest terms, varicose veins are veins that are swollen with blood. Your veins have valves that keep your blood flowing toward your heart. When those veins become damaged or weakened, blood can back-up behind them and pool in your veins, causing them to swell. When this happens, they protrude from the skin and appear twisted, enlarged, and bluish in color. They are often called “spider veins” when they are mild thanks to their webbed appearance. Varicose veins are most common in the legs, ankles and feet. That’s because the pressure in the veins of your lower body is increased when you stand or walk. Any vein can become varicose. For example, hemorrhoids are a form of varicose veins that ...
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  Symptoms of Varicose Veins

  Varicose veins. They’re all too common - affecting nearly 35% of the U.S. population - and often considered harmless, but leaving them untreated may not be as safe as you think. Varicose veins occur when the valves in superficial veins weaken, causing blood to collect and pool in the area. This leads to veins that are twisted, enlarged, and dark in color. They most commonly occur in legs, though any superficial vein can become varicose. Often, varicose veins are mostly a cosmetic concern. But if left untreated, they can cause physical symptoms that range from merely inconvenient to completely debilitating. Signs and Symptoms of Varicose Veins Varicose veins are most commonly recognized by their distinct appearance. Signs that you may have varicose veins include: Veins that appear swollen, raised and twisted beneath the skin Veins that are purplish or dark blue in color Spider veins, or mild red and blue-colored veins beneath the skin In some cases, varicose veins can cause physical symptoms that range from mild to severe. Symptoms of varicose veins can include: Pain and Discomfort. Varicose veins can cause burning, throbbing, ...
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  Different Treatments for Varicose Veins

  Did you know you can hear the blood in your veins? You just have to listen varicosely. Okay, so this is about the only time we’ll chuckle together regarding the issue of varicose veins. Those ugly, often bulging and twisting veins are no joke. But to treat them, we have to better understand them – what are the causes, how serious are they, and can they ever go away, are just some of the things that go through our collective thoughts when we see one beginning to develop.   Varicose or Spider?   Approximately 50 percent of our older population will begin to notice either varicose veins or spider veins in various spots on their bodies.  Even though they look very similar and are essentially related, their look, cause, severity and location can vary immensely.     Certain lifestyle factors may contribute to what may seem like a sudden appearance of varicose or spider veins.  Overall weight, medicines with hormones in them, or if you have a job where you sit or stand for long periods of time can all contribute.     But some reasons for varicose or spider ...
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  How to Stay Warm Without Restricting Blood Flow for PAD

  As the temperatures drop and the crisp air of fall sets in, staying warm becomes a priority. However, for individuals with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), choosing the right clothing is not just about comfort—it’s about maintaining healthy blood flow. PAD, a condition that narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow to the limbs, can be exacerbated by tight or restrictive clothing. With proper layering and thoughtful choices, you can stay warm this fall without compromising circulation. At Vascular Associates of South Alabama, we understand the challenges PAD patients face during colder months. Here are some practical and PAD-friendly clothing tips to help you enjoy the season while keeping your blood flow unrestricted. 1. Choose Loose-Fitting Layers Layering is key in the fall, but tight layers can constrict blood flow, especially in the legs and feet, where PAD symptoms are often most severe. Opt for loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics. Begin with a moisture-wicking base layer, such as merino wool or moisture-resistant synthetic materials, which will help regulate your body temperature while allowing your skin to breathe. Next, add an insulating layer, such ...
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  Everything You Need to Know About Vascular Disease & the Summer Heat

    In South Alabama, summers are hot and those temperatures can last well into the fall. Patients with vascular disease may see their symptoms exacerbated due to the heat.  How Does the Summer Heat Affect Vascular Disease? Veins dilate when exposed to high temperatures causing an increase in swelling and stress on the body as it works harder to circulate blood. This can lead to vein damage, discomfort, blood accumulation in the lower legs and skin sensitivity like itching and rashes.  Additionally, people tend to be more active during the summer when the weather is nice. This can lead to pain in the extremities especially if people overdo it. While the pain may simply be misuse, it could also be a sign of Peripheral Artery Disease.  What Can You Do to Beat the Summer Heat? People with vascular disease should follow year-round lifestyle changes including: Staying properly hydrated Maintaining a health weight through diet and exercise Wearing loose fitting clothing and compression socks Cutting out smoking  More specifically in the summer months, patients should cool down by: Staying in the shade Wearing a hat Enjoying frozen treats Spending time in the air conditioning  Exercising indoors ...
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  Everything You Need to Know About Flying with PAD

  According to the American Heart Association, patients can fly with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) as long as their symptoms are managed. However, this may not be the case for everyone, so always check with your doctor.  While air travel is relatively safe for PAD patients, it doesn’t come without risk. Flights over four hours require passengers to remain still for long periods of time which can cause blood flow to decrease and increase the chance of a blood clot. This is especially concerning for people with PAD as their arteries are already narrowed and blood flow is more difficult.  High altitude is also a concern as it affects PAD. Although cabins are pressurized, air may be thin at times and this puts more strain on the heart to pump blood throughout the body. As a person with PAD, it’s best to be prepared and know the facts. Here are 6 things you can do to make flying safer and more comfortable: #1: Keep medications readily available Put your medications in your carry-on instead of your checked luggage. Before leaving the house, make sure to ...