Leg swelling is one of the most common complaints that occur in the summer months. The heat increases the tendency to swollen legs, especially in people with venous disorders such as varicose veins (varicosis) or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). In addition to the visible swelling, many sufferers experience symptoms such as leg pain, a feeling of tightness or heaviness in the legs.
This article looks at the various causes of leg swelling, modern treatment options such as VenaSeal, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and endovascular laser ablation (EVLA) as well as measures to alleviate and prevent symptoms.
What causes leg swelling?
Leg swelling occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissue. There are a variety of causes for this, ranging from venous problems to other systemic diseases:
1. venous causes
- Varicosis (varicose veins): Damaged venous valves lead to a backflow of blood, which increases the pressure in the leg veins and causes swelling.
- Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI): In advanced stages, CVI leads to persistent swelling, skin changes and even ulcers.
2. lymphatic causes
- Lymphedema: A disorder of lymphatic drainage in which the lymph fluid stagnates in the tissue. Lymphoedema often occurs symmetrically, but can also be unilateral.
3. cardiovascular diseases
- Heart failure: A weakened heart no longer pumps effectively enough, which leads to fluid accumulation in the legs.
- Thrombosis: A blood clot blocks the blood flow in a deep vein, resulting in acute one-sided swelling.
4. kidney diseases
- Renal insufficiency: Impaired kidney function leads to an accumulation of fluid in the body, which often shows up in the legs.
5. hormonal causes
- Pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy can lead to fluid retention, as they relax the vein walls and make reflux more difficult.
6 Medication side effects
- Medications such as calcium antagonists, corticosteroids or certain antidepressants can have leg swelling as a side effect.
7. orthostatic swellings
- Prolonged standing or sitting, e.g. when traveling, leads to temporary swelling as gravity impedes venous return.
Symptoms and warning signs of leg swelling
The symptoms of leg swelling vary depending on the cause. However, the following signs are common:
- Feeling of tension: The skin feels firm and taut.
- Feeling of heaviness: Especially after long periods of standing or sitting.
- Pain: This can be pulling, dull or localized.
- Skin changes: Pigmentation, hardening or eczema.
- Restricted mobility: Severely swollen legs can make walking difficult.
Warning signs that could indicate a serious cause are:
- One-sided, painful swelling (possible indication of thrombosis)
- Sudden shortness of breath (possible indication of a pulmonary embolism)
- Open wounds or ulcers
Modern treatment options for venous causes of leg swelling
Minimally invasive treatment methods are now available for patients with varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency. These methods are particularly effective, gentle and do not require long downtimes.
1. venaSeal (vein adhesive)
VenaSeal is an innovative and minimally invasive method that is particularly suitable for the treatment of varicose veins and CVI.
- How does VenaSeal work?
A medical adhesive is inserted into the diseased vein via a catheter. The adhesive seals the vein so that the blood is redirected via healthy veins.
- Advantages of VenaSeal:
- No need for compression stockings after treatment
- Immediate return to everyday activities
- No thermal damage to surrounding tissue
- Suitable for patients with sensitive skin or intolerance to heat
- Who is VenaSeal suitable for?
This method is particularly suitable for patients with pronounced truncal varicosis and those who want a quick recovery time.
2. radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency ablation is a thermal procedure that uses heat energy to close the diseased vein.
- How does XRF work?
A special probe is inserted into the vein via a catheter. The probe generates radiofrequency energy, which heats and contracts the vein wall until the vein is closed.
- Advantages of XRF:
- High success rate in the treatment of varicose veins
- Minimal pain during and after the procedure
- Short treatment duration (approx. 30-60 minutes)
- Immediate improvement in symptoms such as swelling and pain
- Who is RFA suitable for? Patients with moderate to severe varicosis particularly benefit from this method, as it is effective and well tolerated.
3. endovascular laser ablation (EVLA)
Endovascular laser ablation uses high-energy laser light to close the affected vein.
- How does EVLA work?
A thin laser thread is inserted into the vein. The laser creates a thermal reaction that shrinks the vein wall and closes the vein.
- Advantages of EVLA:
- Very precise treatment, ideal for larger and smaller veins
- Long-term results and high patient satisfaction
- Minimal scarring, as the procedure is performed without large incisions
- Who is EVLA suitable for? EVLA is particularly suitable for patients for whom other procedures would be less effective, as well as for the treatment of larger varicose veins.
Conservative measures to support the treatment
In addition to the procedures mentioned above, there are conservative approaches that help to relieve leg swelling and support healing:
Compression therapy
- Wearing medical compression stockings to support venous return.
- Particularly effective in combination with exercise.
Movement
- Regular walking, swimming or cycling activates the muscle pump in the legs.
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
- Cooling and elevation of the legs
- Cold foot baths or cooling compresses reduce acute swelling.
- Elevating the legs improves the return flow of venous blood.
Nutrition
- A low-salt diet can reduce fluid retention in the tissues.
- Sufficient fluid intake promotes blood circulation.
Why is early treatment important?
Leg swelling is more than just an aesthetic problem. Untreated venous disease can lead to serious complications, including:
- Chronic pain and restricted mobility
- Thromboses (blood clots)
- Skin changes and venous ulcers
Timely diagnosis and treatment minimize these risks and significantly improve the quality of life.
VenaZiel Berlin: Your expert for vein health
At the VenaZiel Vein Center Berlin we offer customized solutions for the treatment of leg swelling, varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. Using the latest technology such as VenaSeal, RFA and EVLA, we guarantee safe and effective treatment that is tailored to your individual needs.
Conclusion
Leg swelling, especially in summer, is a common problem that is often associated with venous disorders such as varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. Modern minimally invasive treatment procedures such as VenaSeal, RFA and EVLA offer effective solutions to alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life of those affected.
Do not hesitate to contact us at the VenaZiel Vein Center Berlin to receive individual advice and treatment. Together we will find the best solution for your complaints.
