Leg Pain, Swelling & Heaviness

What Does Edema Mean for Me?

Ankle edema, or edema of the legs, is a condition characterized by swelling, particularly in the lower legs, ankles, and feet due to the accumulation of excess fluid.

Generally preceded by varicose veins and spider veins, ankle edema represents the next progressive state of venous insufficiency and is often the result of venous hypertension. Calf swelling,  ankle swelling, and changes in skin pigmentation can occur due to fluid being forced into lymphatic and interstitial spaces.

Typically, these conditions cause severe pain and discomfort, particularly in the lower leg, calf, and ankle, where the proximity of the nerves causes the condition to worsen.

Venous insufficiencies, when in their earlier stages, tend to affect smaller and more superficial veins. However, ankle edema often affects a portion of the deep vein system and can create various complications if left untreated.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to schedule an appointment with our specialists at The Vein Clinic today by calling us at 844-316-8771. The Vein Clinic proudly serves the communities in and near Salt Lake County and Utah County, UT.

Get the Right Treatment for Your Symptoms

The treatment option that’s best suited for you will vary depending on individual circumstances and ultrasound findings.

For long-segment veins and perforator veins, our treatments here at the Vein Clinic may include:

• Endovenous laser ablation (EVLT): With EVLT, a minute incision is made in the affected area, after which one of our specialists will use a laser to directly destroy the unhealthy vein. Patients are given anesthesia before the procedure, and the process leaves virtually no scarring on the skin’s surface.
• Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA): RFA requires the insertion of a catheter into the affected veins, which are mapped using an ultrasound. Once the catheter is in, minor electric shocks are sent through the catheter tube, causing the veins to heat up and shrink. Once the procedure is finished, blood flow is rerouted away from the affected veins and into healthier ones, while the affected veins will eventually dissolve back into the surrounding tissue.
• Medical adhesives: These medical-grade “glues” are used to close off unhealthy veins. Once they are sealed, these veins will harden and dissolve while blood is redirected to healthy veins, much like the process of RFA.

For varicose veins, our other treatments include:

• Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy: US-guided sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to dissolve and blood to reroute as with RFA and medical adhesives.
• Micro-incisions: When dealing with especially large veins, a specialist may need to treat them by making an incision in the skin and removing the unhealthy veins directly.

For associated tributary veins, our professionals here at The Vein Clinic can give treatment through either US-guided sclerotherapy or with a non-procedural treatment, such as compression stockings, non-elastic compression bandaging usage, the usage of NSAIDs for pain, and leg elevation.

Our Team Would Love to Hear from You!

Leg and ankle edema is not something anybody should have to live with. If you would like to know more about what our caring staff here at The Vein Clinic can do for you and your wellbeing, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today by calling 844-316-8771. Same-day appointments are available.

The Vein Clinic proudly serves the communities of Salt Lake County and Utah County, UT.