Tag Archives: safe harbor vein specialists

04.25.20
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Online Screening for Vein Issues

Online screening vein issues

Online screening vein issuesDid you know that step one in getting your vein health back can be done right from the comfort of your own home?

You might be surprised how much our Vein Specialists can tell you from just a quick introductory email containing a few questions.

Your West Florida Vein Specialist will asses your answers that have been entered into a secure contact form housed on a HIPPA compliant server. Your information is safe and confidential. It will be studied and compiled and a specialist will follow up with you to answer you directly. You will receive a response from a  live specialist, not an online programmed robot.

If your questionnaire answers and current health condition sound like they could potentially be a situation that would require treatment, they may recommend that you then follow up with an in-person office visit. If your condition does not require an in-person follow up, they will tell you that as well, possibly making simple suggestions for at-home care, preventatively.

Making steps that help to ensure your health are always positive. If your legs exhibit signs of possible venous disease, take a minute and fill out the online consultation. The consultation is completely FREE and you are under no further obligation.

Signs you may have venous insufficiency:

  • Tired legs
  • Achy legs
  • Restless legs at bedtime (twitching)
  • Visible varicose veins
  • Visible spider veins
  • Leg cramps
  • Itchy Legs
  • Odd skin textures on your legs
  • Wounds or ulcers that will not heal

These uncomfortable issues can be corrected through proper care.  Let the specialists at West Florida Vein Center set you on the right path back to leg health. If you have more questions or would prefer to see our doctors in person please visit www.westfloridaveincenter.com or call 727-712-3233.

04.02.20
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Sun Exposure and Varicose Veins

Vein-health-and-sun-exposure-west-florida-vein-cente

Vein-health-and-sun-exposure-west-florida-vein-centeIf you live somewhere where sunshine is a year-round presence you will want to know how it can affect your vein health! 

The Importance of sunscreen when it comes to veins

These days most of us do put on sunscreen when laying out catching some rays. Sunscreen can deter UVA and UVB rays from doing skin damage, aging the skin or leading to cancer. While many are aware of the dark spots or wrinkles the sun may cause but what many don’t think about how sun exposure can egg on spider veins to form on the nose or cause already active vein disease in the body to worsen. With people currently flocking to South West Florida for the end of the beach season, it’s important to be aware of how to protect your skin from the sun whether it’s on the beach or just gardening in the yard.

Can the Sun Actually Cause Varicose and Spider Veins?

Yes and no. The sun can cause spider veins. It cannot cause varicose veins.

Many people believe a good tan will hide the appearance of spider veins, which is true. However, it’s a temporary measure and one that can backfire if you get too much sun, causing even more spider veins to spread.

Should I Avoid the Sun?

The only time you really should avoid sun exposure is if you have recently had a vein removal done. It is important to protect the skin after such treatment. Doctors recommend that people who have undergone vein treatment surgery should remain out of the sun anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks. The sun’s rays can cause pigment changes in the skin. Once the doctor clears you to go in the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen to the area to protect the skin.

Spider Veins: The sun breaks down collagen under the skin and in blood vessels right beneath the surface causing spider veins to appear. Sun exposure may also cause veins in your face to do the same, especially in light-skinned individuals.

Varicose veins: On the other hand, varicose veins are never created by the sun. However, veins that are diseased may worsen in hot weather. The sun’s heat can cause the veins to dilate and enlarge causing venous distention. Venous distention is a condition in which veins swell due to being filled with more blood than is needed. An increase in blood and size means swelling and pain.

Sun exposure vein health West Florida Vein center

When Is the Best Time of Year to Get Veins Treated?

The winter months are the ideal time to get skin looking healthy for the summer. Most people don’t think of their veins during the colder months because we wear so much clothing, but it can make life a lot easier to get problems fixed before summer beach weather returns.

Why Winter Treatment is Ideal:

  • Veins can worsen in winter months from inactivity.
  • Veins could require additional treatments, so there is plenty of time to be ready for the warmer weather.
  • Compression hosiery is often worn before and after varicose vein procedures. These stockings are easier to wear or hide in cooler months.

Learn More About Sun Exposure and Veins

If you have concerns about sun exposure on your spider or varicose veins or have any other questions about treatments, schedule an appointment with a vein specialist. If you are in the greater Tampa area, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center at (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

03.04.20
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Sun Exposure – What You Need to Know When it Comes to Varicose and Spider Veins

Sun-exposure-vein-health-West-Florida-Vein-center

Sun exposure vein health West Florida Vein centerSummer in the sunshine state means shorts, bathing suits, and cool summer wear. It can be massively frustrating and limiting to have vein issues. It is just too hot out to be wearing long pants all the time.

Sunscreen and Vein Issues

Most of us do wear sunscreen when laying out getting some sun. Wearing sunscreen can deter UVB and UVA rays from doing skin damage, skin aging or stimulating cancer cells. While many are aware of the dark spots or wrinkles the sun may cause but what many don’t think about how sun exposure can egg on spider veins to form on the nose or cause already active vein disease in the body to worsen. With people currently flocking to South West Florida for the end of the beach season, it’s important to be aware of how to protect your skin from the sun whether it’s on the beach or just gardening in the yard.

Does the Sun Cause Varicose and Spider Veins?

This is a complicated answer. The sun can cause spider veins. It cannot cause varicose veins.

Many people believe a good tan will hide the appearance of spider veins, which is true. However, it’s a temporary measure and one that can backfire if you get too much sun, causing even more spider veins to spread.

Varicose veins: On the other hand, varicose veins are never created by the sun. However, veins that are diseased may worsen in hot weather. The sun’s heat can cause the veins to dilate and enlarge causing venous distention. Venous distention is a condition in which veins swell due to being filled with more blood than is needed. An increase in blood and size means swelling and pain.

Spider Veins: The sun breaks down collagen under the skin and in blood vessels right beneath the surface causing spider veins to appear. Sun exposure may also cause veins in your face to do the same, especially in light-skinned individuals.

Is the Sun to Be Avoided?

In general, no. However, after vein removal procedures it is important to protect the skin. Doctors recommend that people who have undergone vein treatment surgery should remain out of the sun anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks. Sunshine may cause pigment changes in the skin. Once the doctor clears you to go in the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen to the area to protect the skin.

 

What Is the Best Time of Year to Get Veins Treated?

The winter months are the ideal time to get skin looking healthy for the summer. Most people don’t think of their veins during the colder months because we wear so much clothing, but it can make life a lot easier to get problems fixed before summer beach weather returns.

Winter Treatment is Ideal:

  • Compression hose are often worn before and after varicose vein procedures. These stockings are easier to wear or hide in cooler months.
  • Veins can worsen in cold weather months due to lack of activity.
  • Veins could require additional treatments, so there is plenty of time to be ready for the warmer weather.

 More About Sun Exposure and Veins

If you have concerns about sun exposure on your spider or varicose veins or have any other questions about treatments, schedule an appointment with a vein specialist. If you are in the greater Tampa area, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center at (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

02.10.20
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Vein Ligation and Stripping – The Recovery Process, What to Expect

When a patient decides to have any type of procedure performed it is important that each detail not only of the procedure but also of the recovery expected is to be discussed. No one likes surprises when it comes to their health and healing.

Though the vein treatment may take only a few minutes, your body will need some additional care and rest afterward.

Your own recovery time may vary. Everyone recovers at a slightly different rate. This is based on the average experience of all of our patients.

What to Expect Post Vein Ligation and Stripping

Please continue to wear tight compression dressings for the first 3 days post-surgery. If you have stitches they will dissolve on their own or your doctor will let you know they need to be removed if non-dissolvable within 14 days.

Make sure to rest for 3 to 7 days. Veins removed will be immediately nonvisible. Those injected will take time to fully dissolve and disappear from sight.

Your legs may feel a little stiff or sore for a few weeks. We do prescribe pain medication to manage this so your recovery period is comfortable. Your legs in the areas they worked on may be slightly bruised.

Self Care at Home

  1. Get plenty of sleep
  2. Limit activity for a few days as instructed by your physician
  3. Walk. Add a few more steps each day
  4. Avoid strenuous activities
  5. Prop your legs up on a pillow many times throughout the day
  6. Do not drive until you are given the go-ahead
  7. You may shower after the compression dressing comes off. Please do not take a bath for the first two weeks.
  8. Take all medicine as directed
  9. Ice and elevate. 10-20 minutes at a time. 
  10. Follow up with your physician as directed.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call – especially during your recovery. 

Schedule your consultation today: www.westfloridaveincenter.com (727) 712-3233.

08.03.19
by

Look and Feel Your Very Best This Summer!

summer-legs-west-florida-vein-center

summer-legs-west-florida-vein-centerThings are hot this summer here in Florida and our clothing choices show it. Tank tops, skirts, bathing suits, shorts, we will adorn nearly anything to keep cool. That poses a problem when you are living with venous insufficiency or vein disease.

Not only is vein disease uncomfortable and even sometimes painful it is visually embarrassing for many. Your once beautiful legs now marred by purple and blue lines. Here is the thing… unlike the old days, you don’t simply have to grin and bear it or wear ankle-length skirts the way your grandmother did. You can fix the issue in a few quick painless appointments with our office.

The initial appointment is a consultation. We will take a look at your current state and take into consideration your entire medical history. From there we will create a treatment plan customized to your needs to get you the very best results possible.

The West Florida Vein Center is proud to offer a variety of state of the art vein dissolution services that can help heal your legs and rid you of unsightly painful varicose and spider veins.

We offer the following vein treatment options:

Venefit™ Targeted Endovenous Therapy procedure, formerly known as the VNUS Closure™ procedure, for the treatment of varicose veins and CVI. The procedure is a minimally invasive segmental ablation treatment that utilizes radiofrequency energy to provide an even and uniform heat to contract the collagen in the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood will re-route itself to other healthy veins. This procedure allows for a quick, comfortable recovery and a return to everyday activities for the average patient, while also improving the appearance of varicose veins. It has been proven in clinical studies to have excellent long term effectiveness, with less pain and bruising than laser.

Endovenous Ablation

This revolutionary new treatment for large varicose veins was pioneered at Cornell University in New York. Originally performed in Spain, the EndoVenous Laser Ablation is performed in the office, takes less than an hour and accomplishes the same thing as a major surgical vein stripping. Using ultrasound guidance and local anesthesia, a thin laser fiber in a catheter is threaded up to the vein. As the catheter is slowly withdrawn, the laser shrinks and seals the large vein that causes varicose veins in most patients. There is little or no visible scarring. In those patients who are candidates for the procedure, it is 97% successful.

Microphlebectomy / Phlebectomy

Varicose veins are micro-surgically removed through tiny punctures about the size of the tip of a ballpoint pen.  The word “phlebectomy” literally means removing the vein. On the day of the procedure, the doctor or nurse will mark your leg where the veins bulge out. Then, a special local anesthetic (numbing medication) called “tumescent” is injected into the area surrounding your vein. The doctor will make tiny incisions or “stabs” of about 2-3mm – the size of a ball-point pen tip – and use a crochet-type hook to “grab” the vein and remove it. This interrupts the vein, causes any remaining portions of the vein to “clot off”, and gets rid of those unsightly bulgy areas!

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves the injection, via a very fine needle, of a solution into small to medium varicose veins and spider veins. The solution causes the veins to shrink, close off and gradually disappear. A session usually lasts approximately 15 minutes. There are few reported allergic reactions to the solution used. Depending on the number of veins, multiple sessions may be required, which will be decided after the initial consultation and evaluation.

If you are considering vein treatment but haven’t quite decided yet, let us help you make the right decision for you. Give us a call at (727) 712-3233 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zuzga or visit www.westfloridaveincenter.com to learn more.

07.01.19
by

Are Your Legs in Summer Ready Shape? – Don’t Let Veins Stop You!

summer-legs-west-florida-vein-center

summer-legs-west-florida-vein-centerThings are downright hot here in Florida this year and our clothing choices show it. Bathing suits, shorts, tank tops, skirts, we will wear nearly anything to keep cool. That becomes a problem when you are living with venous insufficiency or vein disease.

Not only is vein disease uncomfortable and even sometimes painful it is visually embarrassing for many. Your once beautiful legs now marred by purple and blue lines. Here is the thing… unlike the old days, you don’t simply have to grin and bear it or wear ankle length skirts the way your grandmother did. You can fix the issue in a few quick painless appointments with our office.

The initial appointment is a consultation. We will take a look at your current state and take into consideration your entire medical history. From there we will create a treatment plan customized to your needs to get you the very best results possible.

The West Florida Vein Center is proud to offer a variety of state of the art vein dissolution services that can help heal your legs and rid you of unsightly painful varicose and spider veins.

We offer the following vein treatment options:

Venefit™ Targeted Endovenous Therapy procedure, formerly known as the VNUS Closure™ procedure, for the treatment of varicose veins and CVI. The procedure is a minimally invasive segmental ablation treatment that utilizes radio frequency energy to provide an even and uniform heat to contract the collagen in the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood will re-route itself to other healthy veins. This procedure allows for a quick, comfortable recovery and a return to everyday activities for the average patient, while also improving the appearance of varicose veins. It has been proven in clinical studies to have excellent long term effectiveness, with less pain and bruising than laser.

Endovenous Ablation

This revolutionary new treatment for large varicose veins was pioneered at Cornell University in New York. Originally performed in Spain, the EndoVenous Laser Ablation is performed in the office, takes less than an hour and accomplishes the same thing as a major surgical vein stripping. Using ultrasound guidance and local anesthesia, a thin laser fiber in a catheter is threaded up the vein. As the catheter is slowly withdrawn, the laser shrinks and seals the large vein that causes varicose veins in most patients. There is little or no visible scarring. In those patients who are candidates for the procedure, it is 97% successful.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves the injection, via a very fine needle, of a solution into small to medium varicose veins and spider veins. The solution causes the veins to shrink, close off and gradually disappear. A session usually lasts approximately 15 minutes. There are few reported allergic reactions to the solution used. Depending on the number of veins, multiple sessions may be required, which will be decided after the initial consultation and evaluation.

Microphlebectomy / Phlebectomy

Varicose veins are micro-surgically removed through tiny punctures about the size of the tip of a ballpoint pen.  The word “phlebectomy” literally means removing the vein. The day of the procedure, the doctor or nurse will mark your leg where the veins bulge out. Then, a special local anesthetic (numbing medication) called “tumescent” is injected into the area surrounding your vein. The doctor will make tiny incisions or “stabs” of about 2-3mm – the size of a ball-point pen tip – and use a crochet-type hook to “grab” the vein and remove it. This interrupts the vein, causes any remaining portions of the vein to “clot off”, and gets rid of those unsightly bulgy areas!

If you are considering vein treatment but haven’t quite decided yet, let us help you make the right decision for you. Give us a call at (727) 712-3233 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zuzga or visit www.westfloridaveincenter.com to learn more.

06.01.19
by

Vein Ligation and Stripping – The Recovery Process

varicose veins

When a patient decides to undergo any type of medical procedure it is important that they have all of the information. This includes what to expect post-procedure. Though the vein treatment may take only a few minutes, your body will need some additional care and rest afterward.

varicose veinsEvery person recovers at a slightly different rate. Your own recovery time may vary. This is based on the average experience of all of our patients.

What You Can Expect

Your leg(s) may feel a little sore or stiff for the first few weeks. You may be prescribed pain medication to get through this part of the recovery. Your legs in the areas they worked on may be slightly bruised.

We ask that you continue to wear tight compression dressings for the first 3 days after surgery. If you have stitches they will dissolve on their own or your doctor will let you know they need to be removed if non-dissolvable within 14 days.

Make sure to rest for 3 to 7 days. Veins removed will be immediately non-visible. Those injected will take time to fully dissolve and disappear from sight.

Caring for Yourself at Home

  1. Your doctor may limit activity for a few days
  2. Get enough rest/sleep
  3. Avoid strenuous activities
  4. Prop your legs up on a pillow many times throughout the day
  5. Walk a little more each day
  6. Take all medicine as directed
  7. Do not drive until you are given the go ahead
  8. You may shower after the compression dressing comes off. Please do not take a bath for the first two weeks.
  9. Ice and elevate. 10-20 minutes at a time place an icepack on the leg worked on.
  10. Be sure to follow up with your physician as directed for the very best outcome.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call and ask, that is what we are here for during your recovery. Ready to take back your leg and circulatory health? Call us to schedule an appointment today: www.westfloridaveincenter.com (727) 712-3233.

05.03.19
by

Sclerotherapy – the Right Choice for Small Vein Removal

sclerotherapy-west-florida-vein-center-tampa

sclerotherapy-west-florida-vein-center-tampaAs we age many of us begin to notice small changes in our bodies. If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins or spider veins in their legs you are more likely to develop them as well. Genetics is not the only factor though. Lifestyle also plays a big part.

If you have visibly noticeable small veins that resemble a spider web you likely have telangiectasia, a lesser form of varicose veins or vein disease. While not usually painful, if not treated they tend to start out in a small location and spread fairly quickly.

Sclerotherapy is the main go to treatment for combatting telangiectasis. Sclerotherapy is used on spider veins as well as small superficial varicose veins appearing on the legs. They may also appear (though less commonly) on other parts of the body as well.

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is injection therapy using a very thin 32 gauge needle and a solution to chemically treat specific areas where vein damage exists. The injected chemicals collapse the blood vessel. This takes place within only a few seconds taking effect immediately. The doctor can see it working as they proceed. Sclerotherapy typically takes from 1 to 6 treatment sessions to reach the fading level desired for the treated veins.

Thanks to the natural adaptive healing processes of the human body the blood is simply re-routed to other healthy veins that can easily take on the extra flow while the spider veins fade from view gradually over a period of several weeks due to nonuse and reabsorption.

This procedure is performed using the smallest gauge needle made in order to minimize the sensation of an injection. Most patients are pleasantly surprised when they experience just how painless modern sclerotherapy actually is. Even if you are needle phobic this procedure has been said to be a breeze.

The Doctor’s Suggestion: Wear graduated compression stockings immediately after treatment for up to a week or more. The main benefit is, of course, the look of your legs. No longer encumbered by purplish blue lines sclerotherapy may also help improve annoyance symptoms sometimes linked to spider veins, such as itching, aching, burning and nighttime cramps. If you have tried sclerotherapy in the past and have been unsuccessful in relieving symptoms outside of the visual it could be a sign that deeper veins may need to be treated as well.

It is important to note that there is minimal to no discomfort with this treatment and no downtime.

Sclerotherapy is, so far, the most effective treatment option for spider veins.

Interested to learn more? We are here to help. Give the office of Dr. Mark Zuzga a call today at The West Florida Vein Center of Safety Harbor / Tampa, Florida.

www.westfloridaveincenter.com (727) 712-3233 to set up a consultation and get you on the road to healthier legs.

Most insurance accepted!

04.02.19
by

Varicose Veins, The Hidden Dangers

varicose veins tampa west florida vein center

varicose veins tampa west florida vein centerOn the surface, varicose veins might seem like a vanity issue the truth is they are a cosmetic warning sign that something is medically wrong. All varicose veins should be monitored by a Vein Specialist when they begin to present. The sooner you can treat them, the less damage can be done.

Left untreated varicose veins which are the visual presentation of chronic venous insufficiency (damage to the veins which lead to an inability to properly transport blood throughout the body’s circulatory system) will get worse over time and more pronounced. The once visual issue can lead to pain and discomfort.

Complications including skin ulcers, DVT (deep vein thrombosis blood clots), phlebitis, bleeding, dermatitis, itching, Restless Leg Syndrome, and wounds that may not heal may become issues if untreated.

Many avoid doing anything about their vein issues for fear of either pain or price. The truth is that vein treatment is virtually painless. We offer several different treatment options of which your physician will recommend one that is right for your case. There is almost no downtime and all are performed on an outpatient basis.

Insurance covers most procedures as varicose veins are a medical condition, not an elective treatment.

At The West Florida Vein Center of Tampa Bay | Safety Harbor we offer:


Microphlebectomy – Damaged veins are surgically removed through tiny punctures. The day of the procedure, your leg will be marked on the areas to be corrected. A local anesthetic “tumescent” is injected into the area surrounding your vein. Tiny incisions about 2-3mm each – are made and a crochet-type hook is to get ahold of the vein and remove it. This interrupts the blood flow and causes any remaining portion of the vein to clot and gets rid of the bulging diseased vein area.

Sclerotherapy – Sclerotherapy helps via injection through a very fine needle. The injectable solution causes the veins to shrink, close off and gradually dissolve. Each session lasts about15 minutes. Most tolerate the solution with no issues. Multiple sessions may be required. This will be decided after the initial consultation and evaluation.

The Venefit Procedure – Formerly known as the VNUS Closure™ procedure, for the treatment of varicose veins and CVI. This is a minimally invasive procedure of segmental ablation that utilizes radio frequency (RF) energy to provide an even and uniform heat to contract the collagen in the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood will re-route itself to other healthy veins.

Endovenous Ablation – This revolutionary new treatment for large varicose veins takes less than an hour and accomplishes the same outcome as surgical vein stripping. Using ultrasound guidance and local anesthesia, a thin laser fiber in a catheter is threaded up the vein. As the catheter is slowly withdrawn, the laser shrinks and seals the large vein that causes varicose veins in most patients. There is little or no visible scarring.

If you are in the Safety Harbor or Tampa Bay area of Florida we invite you to come in and see Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center. www.westfloridaveincenter.com. Just give us a call to schedule your appointment today! (727) 712-3233.

03.03.19
by

Diagnosing Varicose Veins

varicose-veins-tampa-fl

varicose-veins-tampa-flIf you suspect you may have vein issues seeking medical attention as soon as possible is the best way to get your legs back to health.


Surface level veins are pretty easily diagnosed visually but when vein issues are deeper there are certain medical tests and procedures that can be processed when it comes to finding the damage and determining the extent. These same tests can also be used to rule out possible conditions.

If your skin in the area affected is having issues as well it is not unusual for your Dermatologist to work in conjunction with your Vein Specialist.

The Exam

Both standing and seated a visual examination is done on the patients’ legs. Questions will be asked as to how you feel standing, walking, sitting, running, and even while sleeping.

Ultrasound (Duplex)

A duplex ultrasound is a combination of the traditional with the newer technology of the Doppler ultrasound. Traditional ultrasound operates on sound waves in order to create an image of the structures. In this test, you can see the blood vessels and view anything that may be blocking the blood flow.

Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of the movement of the blood. The two together create a picture that can assist your doctor in diagnosing your condition more easily. Your physician may recommend a duplex ultrasound in order to look for blood clots as well.

The Ultrasound Experience

A handheld ultrasound device is placed on your body during this test in the area of suspected issue. It will be moved back and forth over the area. The unit works by sending and receiving sound waves. Those waves are then sent to a computer which will then convert into a visual image of the arteries and veins.

If a diagnosis of vein disease and accompanying varicose veins is made, your doctor will then recommend the very best treatment path possible to get your legs back to health.

Angiogram

If a simple physical exam isn’t enough, an angiogram may be used. During an angiogram, a nonreactive nontoxic dye is injected into your leg veins suspected of sustaining damage. Dying the veins allows the outlines to be viewable on an X-ray image. This is not very commonly used in most exams but can be incredibly valuable if a detailed look at blood flow routes is needed. This test can both confirm a diagnosis of varicose veins or may point to a different condition.

If you are in the Safety Harbor or Tampa, Florida area and in need of a Vein Specialist we hope you consider The West Florida Vein Center. www.westfloridaveincenter.com (727) 712-3233.