Fluid build-up in the lower extremities can easily lead to swollen legs and ankles. While this swelling on its own does not constitute a medical emergency, it can be a harbinger of more serious problems. Understanding how your life may change if your legs and ankles start to swell (as well as understanding how a Chicago vascular doctor can help) may assist you in finding the right kinds of treatment.
What should Chicago residents know about the impact of swollen legs and ankles?
One of the first changes a patient might notice when dealing with leg and ankle swelling is that they often feel tired by the end of the day, especially if their job keeps them on their feet. This feeling of tiredness may make it difficult to exercise. Physical activity is very helpful in improving blood flow and reducing swelling, so patients are advised to continue (or begin) an exercise regimen to help control this symptom.
Feelings of tiredness are often accompanied by discomfort when leg and ankle swelling is present. The lower legs may feel cramped, achy, or stiff, with symptoms more likely if the patient is on his or her feet all day. Wearing compression stockings may help to alleviate these issues.
Patients suffering from swollen legs and ankles are advised to look out for outward signs of vein disease, which include varicose and spider veins. Lower extremity swelling can often occur due to damage or insufficiency in the veins. Instead of moving blood upwards to the heart, diseased veins may allow it to pool downward, causing swelling. Spider vein treatment in Chicago may help to address these symptoms.
If a patient’s swelling does not go away on its own, he or she may decide to reach out to a Chicago vascular doctor. Taking advantage of a vein specialist’s help gives patients access to a number of tests and treatments to help restore a healthy circulation system. Working with a vein clinic in Chicago allows patients to receive a diagnosis of their vascular issues as well as receive advice on appropriate forms of treatment.
Vein removal in Chicago may be a final step for patients experiencing persistent leg and ankle swelling. Problematic or diseased veins can be closed off or removed through a minimally invasive surgery. In most cases a tiny catheter or needle is all that is needed to address this problem. Patients can expect a quick, safe, and virtually pain-free experience that leaves them with healthier, better looking, and less swollen legs.
A patient’s life can change in a number of different ways if they have swollen legs and ankles. While the swelling itself may not be a dangerous problem, it can be a strong signifier of an underlying issue. We encourage anybody suffering from persistent leg and ankle swelling to get in touch with Chicago Vein Care Center to learn more about what might be causing the problem. If you have any questions about how our friendly and compassionate staff can help, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call at 773-283-7887.