Spider Vein Doctor in Chicago on Vein Health & Diabetes
People with diabetes are at an increased risk for developing deadly heart disease, stroke, and arterial disease. However, diabetes puts patients at risk for many other complications including blindness, nerve damage, and vein disease. For many people, having varicose veins is no big health concern. But bulging leg veins can be a complicated medical issue for someone with diabetes. Keep reading to find out what a varicose and spider vein doctor in Chicago has to say about diabetes and vein health.
What do Chicago residents need to know about varicose veins and diabetes?
Varicose veins are caused by a condition called venous inefficiency in which the affected veins can no longer transport blood. The backpressure of venous inefficiency causes fluids to become trapped in the veins and can compromise the tissues in the legs. People with this issue often notice itching or burning sensations around the problem vein. Other symptoms of venous insufficiency can include dermatitis, swelling, pain, and slow-healing ulcers that can expose you to infection.
Diabetes on its own can make problems for your skin and veins as well. High blood glucose levels associated with uncontrolled diabetes can cause skin tissue changes. Bleeding veins, nerve damage, and vision problems are just the tip of the iceberg, as complications of progressing diabetes and vein disease can lead to disability and death.
Varicose veins can produce complications in anyone, but the side effects are heightened in people with diabetes.
What could happen if you have vein disease and diabetes?
The tissues that make up veins and arteries harden with age and lifestyle, but also at a faster rate in people with diabetes. The blood vessels become inflexible, narrowed, and built up plaque that can block blood flow to your legs and feet. Some people with diabetes must undergo amputations due to tissue death caused by poor circulation.
Wounds also occur more easily with diabetes. Diabetes can cause nerve damage, so it can be easy not to notice when you injure yourself. These areas are also more difficult to heal because of poor circulation and inefficient nutrient supply. Open wounds, whether a scrape or venous stasis ulcer, can leave your body open to harmful bacteria. It’s important for people with diabetes in particular to take extra care of their legs and feet.
What vein treatments are available for someone with diabetes?
Getting treatment for vein disease is essential for someone with diabetes. The first step is to make sure you have your diabetes under control. If your doctor has prescribed insulin, take it exactly as directed and monitor your blood glucose levels regularly. Additionally, everyone can benefit from quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercise if your doctor allows it.
The best varicose vein treatment in Chicago for a patient with diabetes is something gentle on the body, yet effective in getting rid of problem veins. As with most conditions, it’s easiest to treat vein problems when caught early on, so getting a vein screening from our center is the most reliable way to determine the severity of your abnormal veins and what is causing the vein problems. From there, Dr. Castro will discuss safe options for varicose vein treatment in Chicago just for you.
Dr. Ramon Castro is a long-standing Chicago vein specialist. Both he and his professional team are dedicated to helping people fight vein disease, including individuals with diabetes. Give us a call at 773-283-7887 to learn more or to schedule your vein screening today!