It’s normal to have occasional aching and swelling in the legs. However, if you experience these symptoms chronically, then you may have problems like lymphedema or venous disease. These two diseases have different causes but similar symptoms. Sometimes, patients with lymphedema also have venous disease – a condition called phlebolymphedema – which only compounds their discomfort. It’s important to determine which of these conditions is responsible for your symptoms so that you can get the appropriate treatment. Artemis Vein Center in Westminster can diagnose your condition and then advise you on the best options.
Lymph is a fluid that circulates in the body to support the immune system and fight infections. Our lymphatic system processes cleans, and drains lymphatic fluid from the body. When the lymphatic system is damaged through injury or disease, fluid can build up and cause swelling, feelings of tightness, and discomfort in affected areas. Sometimes the problem can be severe enough to restrict the patient’s range of motion in one or more limbs.
When a patient has both lymphedema and venous disease, the condition is referred to as phlebolymphedema. This means that, in addition to the lymphatic issues, one or more veins are damaged or diseased and unable to move blood normally. When this happens, pressure in the veins increases and, similar to lymphedema, can cause symptoms like swelling, tenderness, and pain. The most recognizable symptom of venous disease is varicose veins or spider veins, but there may not be any visible signs.
The good news is that there are treatment options for the conditions described above. However, the first step is diagnosis. An MD evaluation will diagnose lymphedema, venous disease, and/or phlebolymphedema using a simple, non-invasive ultrasound. After the evaluation, we will recommend treatment based on the patient’s unique situation. This might include a course of compression stockings, treating the lymphedema and diseased veins at Artemis, or referring the patient to a lymphologist.
Non-invasive compression stocking therapy can benefit patients with lymphatic and venous issues. We recommend them to almost all of our patients. Compression stockings exert gentle pressure that supports the lymphatic and circulatory systems. They can be very effective at reducing symptoms on their own and are often used in combination with other treatments.
While compression stockings are a simple intervention, getting the right fit can be a little tricky. They are not “one-size-fits-all”, and most people need guidance on finding the right pressure, the best style for their needs, and how to put them on. Artemis can help you get compression stockings right the first time. We help ensure that they will be as effective as possible while reducing the hassle of trying multiple pairs on your own. We’ll even take care of ordering them for you. Get in touch for a free fitting.
Seeking diagnosis and treatment for chronic lymphedema and phlebolymphedema symptoms can have a significant positive impact on your daily life. It’s worth the effort to speak with a specialist and get a free vein screening. Our doctor and staff are very experienced and provide excellent care to all of our patients. Call us for an appointment at 303-955-8314, or fill out our contact form.
If you require vein or aesthetic treatments, contact Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center today online or at (720) 664-5831 and one of our team members will gladly assist you in scheduling an appointment or consultation. We proudly serve the Westminster, Broomfield and Louisville areas of Colorado.
