Genetics! Family genetics is the highest contributing factor to developing varicose veins. Although you can’t do anything about your genetics, you can take several steps to reduce common symptoms. Symptoms such as pain, swelling, restless legs and itching are all associated with venous reflux and varicose veins. Exercise regularly. Exercise improves your blood circulation. If you sit all day at…
What is Pelvic Congestion? Pelvic congestion, also known as pelvic venous congestion syndrome (PVCS), is a condition that affects many women ages 20-45 who have given birth more than once, have polycystic ovary syndrome, or varicose veins. It occurs when the veins in the pelvis become enlarged and engorged, causing discomfort and pain. Approximately 40% of visits to the gynecologist…
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. Read on to find out more about DVT and its treatment. In the United States, over 600,000 new cases of DVT are diagnosed each year. During DVT, blood clots occur in deep veins because your veins are injured or the blood flowing…
Kyphoplasty is a highly effective, minimally-invasive procedure that treats vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), which are small breaks in the spine. These compression fractures can cause your spine to shorten and curve forward. Typically, the main cause of vertebral compression fractures is osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes your bones to become more fragile. You might be a candidate for…
A law passed in the state of Rhode Island last year is a significant milestone in the drive to reduce the number of unnecessary hysterectomies performed each year. The law went into effect January 1 and requires health insurers operating in that state to cover the laparoscopic removal of uterine fibroids—including the uterine artery embolization procedure. Whether you call it…
Overview of Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive treatment for Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH). About 25% of men have symptoms of BPH by the age of 55, and 50% of men do by age 75. BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, and it is the most common benign tumor found in men….
VenaSeal Overview The VenaSeal procedure is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment for varicose veins. Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins most commonly appearing in the legs. VenaSeal treatment involves a small amount of medical adhesive delivered into the varicose vein. This seals the vein and reroutes blood to other veins. How VenaSeal is Performed You will lie on a…
With the new year coming, it is important to maximize your health insurance benefits. Read on to learn how you can take advantage of your deductible before the year ends. What is a health insurance deductible? A deductible is the amount you pay for covered health care services before your insurance plan starts to pay. Deductibles usually apply to purchasing…
What are spider veins, and what causes them? Spider veins are small varicose veins. They can be blue, red, or purple, and they usually twist much like a spider’s web. Spider veins are visible through the skin and may bulge above the surface of skin. Essentially, spider veins are non-functional veins with backed-up blood, causing the veins to appear under…
What is a uterine fibroid? A uterine fibroid is a noncancerous growth in the uterus. It typically appears during childbearing years. Many women have uterine fibroids, but often, uterine fibroids do not cause any symptoms. Some women might experience various symptoms including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic and back pain, extended menstrual periods, constipation, or frequent urination. Women with fibroids have…