Venous Issues

Varicose veins are abnormally enlarged veins that bulge under the skin, often appearing as twisted, blue or purple lines. These veins occur when the valves inside the veins malfunction, allowing blood to pool and flow backward. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and skin changes.

• Symptoms: Aching legs, pain or cramping, swelling, restless legs, skin changes, bleeding.

• Risk factors: Age, family history, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, hormonal changes.

• Treatment options: Lifestyle changes, compression stockings, medications, sclerotherapy, ablation, phlebectomy.

Contact Prospero to schedule an consultation to see if our minimally invasive treatment options for varicose veins are right for you!

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically located in the legs. Unlike varicose veins, which are visible and often bulge under the skin, DVT often develops without any noticeable symptoms. This makes it crucial to be aware of the signs and risk factors.

• Symptoms (can be absent or mild): Swelling in one leg, usually on one side, pain or tenderness in the affected leg, particularly in the calf, redness or discoloration of the skin over the clot, a feeling of warmth in the affected area.

• Risk factors: Prolonged sitting or inactivity (like on a long flight), recent surgery or hospitalization, certain medical conditions (cancer, inflammatory bowel disease), pregnancy and childbirth, obesity, smoking, older age (over 65), family history of DVT.

• Complications: If left untreated, DVT can lead to serious complications, including pulmonary embolism (a blood clot that travels to the lungs), which can be life-threatening.

• Treatment: After diagnosis with ultrasound imaging and clinic consultation at Prospero, DVT treatment may be managed with::

  • Medication

  • Venogram

Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a condition that causes chronic pelvic pain in women. It occurs when the veins in the pelvis become enlarged and congested, leading to a backup of blood flow. Unlike varicose veins in the legs, PCS symptoms are often internal and can be mistaken for other pelvic conditions.

• Symptoms: Chronic pelvic pain (worsened with standing, walking, or sex), pelvic pressure, low back pain, painful intercourse, menstrual irregularities, heavy bleeding, vaginal discharge.

• Risk factors: Multiple pregnancies, hormonal changes (like those after childbirth or menopause), a history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

• Treatment options: Hormonal therapy (to regulate blood flow), minimally invasive procedures like pelvic embolization or sclerotherapy (to block or shrink enlarged veins), surgery (in severe cases, to remove or bypass affected veins).

If you experience chronic pelvic pain that worsens with activity, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out PCS and other potential causes. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life. Call Prospero today to set up a consultation.

Varicocele is a condition that affects men and involves the enlargement of veins in the scrotum, the sac of skin that holds the testicles. These enlarged veins, similar to varicose veins in the legs, can cause discomfort and potentially impact fertility.

• Symptoms: While some men may not experience any symptoms, varicoceles can cause a dull ache or pain in the scrotum, especially with prolonged standing or activity. The enlarged veins may also be visible or feel like a mass of worms. In some cases, varicoceles can lead to reduced sperm production or quality, impacting fertility.

• Risk factors: The exact cause of varicoceles is unknown, but factors that may contribute include a weak valve in the veins draining the testicles or developmental abnormalities. Family history can also play a role.

• Treatment options: For mild varicoceles with no symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. However, for bothersome symptoms or concerns about fertility, minimally invasive procedures like varicocelectomy (surgical repair) or embolization (blocking the affected vein) can be performed by an interventional radiologist.

If you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your scrotum, or are concerned about fertility, consult a doctor to discuss varicoceles and potential treatment options. Call Prospero today to schedule your consultation!

May-Thurner syndrome, also known as iliac vein compression syndrome, is a rare vascular condition that primarily affects women. It occurs when the right iliac artery, which carries blood to your right leg, compresses the left iliac vein, responsible for draining blood from your left leg back to your heart. This compression can disrupt blood flow and increase the risk of blood clots.

What to be aware of:

• Symptoms: May-Thurner syndrome can develop gradually and symptoms may be mild at first. Common signs include chronic pain, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness in the left leg. Discoloration, varicose veins, and skin changes may also occur.

• Risk factors: Women are more susceptible, especially those between 20 and 45 years old. Conditions like prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, and a history of blood clots can increase the risk.

• Treatment options: Early diagnosis is crucial. Treatments may include lifestyle changes to improve circulation, compression stockings, and blood thinners. Minimally invasive procedures like angioplasty and stenting (to open the compressed vein) can be performed by an interventional radiologist. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

If you experience persistent leg pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, especially on your left side, consult a doctor to discuss May-Thurner syndrome and potential treatment options. Call Prospero today to schedule a consultation!