10 Common Symptoms of Venous Insufficiency or Varicose Veins

The veins in our legs have many "one-way" valves which allow blood to travel up toward the heart. When you stand, the valves close in order to keep the blood from traveling backwards down the leg. 

Sometimes, the valves become damaged and will not close properly. This allows the blood to travel backwards in the direction of gravity. This valve problem is known as venous reflux or venous insufficiency.  The symptoms that occur because of the damaged valves are due to the high pressure that develops in the veins as the blood travels backward.

Over time the veins below the bad valves can become dilated and varicosed. This condition always progresses and often leads to complications such as skin damage, chronic leg swelling, blood clots, ulceration and even spontaneous bleeding.

Many people suffer from the symptoms of Venous Insufficiency and are completely unaware of the underlying problem.  Symptoms vary from person to person but the following symptoms could indicate venous insufficiency and require the attention of a doctor.

1. Leg aching, heaviness and tiredness that is worse at the end of the day
2. Leg swelling that is worse at the end of the day
3. Leg cramps at night
4. Itching
5. Restless legs
6. Blood clots
7. Eczema type skin rash on lower legs
8. Leg ulcers
9. Spontaneous bleeding
10. Occasionally patients experience a burning or numbness in their legs

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, contact us to schedule a consultation.  Bailey Vein Institute provides the most comprehensive vein treatment and is the most trusted vein center on the Big Island. We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care and achieving excellent results. 

Dr. Bailey’s goal is to provide patients with safe, leading edge, minimally invasive vein surgery and cosmetic surgery in a comfortable non hospital setting.  Dr. Bailey offers a professional and personal consultation to discuss how he can help you look and feel your best.

Call today to schedule your consultation with the best Big Island vein center and experience state-of-the-art technology by Dr. Colin Bailey. 

Bailey Vein Institute

65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway 
Suite 16

Kamuela, Hawaii 96743

Tel:  808.885.4401
Tel:  808.885.4403

8 Frequently Asked Questions about Varicose Veins and the Health of Your Veins

1. What is phlebology?  Phlebology is a branch of medicine that deals with vein disease. The body of knowledge in phlebology has progressed to the point where specialists who are committed to the field can become Board Certified in Phlebology. Prior to the opening of the Bailey Vein Institute there was only one other Board Certified Phlebologist in the state of Hawaii located on Oahu.
2. Do all patients with venous insufficiency have varicose veins?  NO. Some patients may 

   

   Hemosiderin Staining

   just have leg swelling that is worse at the end of the day. This chronic leg swelling leads to the development of a brown skin color near the ankle over time. This is known as hemosiderin staining.
3. What is a Venous Ultrasound?  Venous ultrasound is a sophisticated noninvasive technology that uses sound waves to visualize which valves are abnormal. The exam is painless and also allows the physician to identify blood clots and other abnormalities. The result of this testing allows the physician to tailor treatments to each individual patient. The procedure is performed in the office and takes about 45 minutes.
4. Is restless leg syndrome related to venous insufficiency?  According to a study by Clint Hayes, M.D. published in the Journal of Phlebology, almost 40% of patients with restless leg syndrome also have venous insufficiency. When their venous insufficiency was treated, symptoms were improved by 80%. Approximately 30% of the patients had no improvement however.
5. Can venous insufficiency lead to chronic leg swelling?  There are many reasons why people develop chronic leg swelling. Venous insufficiency is a very common underlying cause. Left untreated, this can damage the lymphatic system of the legs, which further exacerbates the leg swelling. Ultimately, the skin becomes damaged and a condition known as stasis dermatitis occurs. In this situation, the skin becomes brown in color and can develop an open ulcer or even become infected. Other things that can lead to chronic leg swelling include blood clots, heart failure and some blood pressure medicines.
6. What are venous stasis ulcers?  Venous ulcers or stasis ulcers are often the result of long

   

   Venus Stasis Ulcers

   standing venous insufficiency (faulty vein valves or reflux). In most cases there is reflux of the saphenous veins and perforating veins. The high pressure within these veins eventually leads to chronic leg swelling, darkening of the skin and ultimately skin breakdown, ulceration and even bleeding. These ulcers are generally near the ankle and are very painful. Dr Bailey was one of the first 11 physicians in the country to use the revolutionary VNUS radiofrequency perforator closure system and has taught many other physicians how to use the device.
7. Can I be cured of my predisposition to develop venous insufficiency?  Venous Insufficiency can be treated but the patient cannot be cured of the genetic propensity to develop reflux. Therefore as the patient ages it is possible that reflux or venous insufficiency will develop in other veins.
8. What are reticular veins?  Reticular veins are often seen as blue-green veins under the skin. They can become large and unsightly and may lead to the development of spider veins. Some patients may experience tenderness, burning and itching in the legs.

Bailey Vein Institute provides the most comprehensive vein treatment and is the most trusted vein center on the Big Island. We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care and achieving excellent results.   Dr. Bailey’s goal is to provide patients with safe, leading edge, minimally invasive vein and cosmetic surgery in a comfortable non hospital setting.  Dr. Bailey offers a professional and personal consultation to discuss how he can help you look and feel your best.

Call today to schedule your consultation with the best Big Island vein center and experience state-of-the-art technology with Dr. Colin Bailey. 

Bailey Vein Institute

65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway 
Suite 16

Kamuela, Hawaii 96743

Tel:  808.885.4401
Tel:  808.885.44

Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation is FAST, EFFECTIVE & SAFE!!

Endovenous radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive alternative to stripping veins in patients with venous insufficiency. Instead of using laser energy to seal the veins shut, radiofrequency energy is used.

Here are the benefits to using Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation:

• It is performed as an outpatient procedure.
• Only requires a non-surgical local anesthesia.  
• There is minimal or no downtime. 
• The procedure is performed in less than an hour. 
• Equally effective as laser in treating venous insufficiency. 
• Offers immediate relief from symptoms.
• You can golf, bike or run the same day!!

The manufacturer of the radiofrequency technology used for venous ablation is the VNUS corporation. Dr. Bailey's experience and expertise in this procedure has lead him to work directly with VNUS to instruct other physicians in advanced techniques in modern vein care.  

This quick video will show you how the procedure works!

Recovery from Endovenous radiofrequency ablation:

When the procedure is complete, most patients experience mild tenderness and slight bruising. This is treated with Ibuprofen or other over the counter anti–inflammatory medicine. Patients typically return to work and normal activities the next day. Over the next several weeks patients can sometimes have a mild tingling sensation along the course of the vein.

Bailey Vein Institute provides the most comprehensive vein treatment and is the most trusted vein center on the Big Island. We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care and achieving excellent results. Our ultimate goal is to have happy satisfied clients that will in turn spread positive news about our quality work.

Dr. Bailey’s goal is to provide patients with safe, leading edge, minimally invasive vein and cosmetic surgery in a comfortable non hospital setting.  Dr. Bailey offers a professional and personal consultation to discuss how he can help you look and feel your best.

Call today to schedule your consultation with the best Big Island vein center and experience state-of-the-art technology by Dr. Colin Bailey. 

Bailey Vein Institute

65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway 
Suite 16

Kamuela, Hawaii 96743

Tel:  808.885.4401
Tel:  808.885.4403

What Treatments are available for Venous Insufficiency or Varicose Veins?

Venous Insufficiency is a very common condition and can lead to a variety of symptoms.  It is the result of faulty valves within the veins which result in the pooling of blood. The condition is often inherited and is more common in women than in men.  Patients suffering from this condition can expect it to get worse with age.  

Although the symptoms can vary from person to person, here are a few indicators that you may need treatment for this condition:

• Leg aching, heaviness and tiredness that is worse at the end of the day.
• Leg swelling that is worse at the end of the day.
• Leg cramps at night.
• Itching
• Burning
• Restless legs
• Blood Clots
• Eczema like skin rash on lower legs
• Leg ulcers
• Spontaneous bleeding

What treatments are available for Venous Insufficiency?

In the last several years there have been several new and exciting developments in the treatment of venous insufficiency which include the following:

• Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation
• Radiofrequency perforator closure
• Laser perforator closure
• Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy
• European Microphlebectomy
• Visual Sclerotherapy
• Surface Laser Sclerotherapy

Bailey Vein Institute provides the most comprehensive vein treatment and is the most trusted vein center on the Big Island. We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care and achieving excellent results. Our ultimate goal is to have happy satisfied clients that will in turn spread positive news about our quality work.

Dr. Bailey’s goal is to provide patients with safe, leading edge, minimally invasive vein and cosmetic surgery in a comfortable non hospital setting.  Dr. Bailey offers a professional and personal consultation to discuss how he can help you look and feel your best.

Call today to schedule your consultation with the best Big Island vein center and experience state-of-the-art technology by Dr. Colin Bailey. 

Bailey Vein Institute

65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway, Suite 16
Kamuela, Hawaii 96743
Tel:  808.885.4401

What causes Venous Insufficiency or Varicose Veins?

What causes Varicose Veins (Venous Insufficiency)?

Both arteries and veins carry blood.  It is common to confuse the difference between the two.  Arteries carry the oxygen rich blood which is pumped from the heart to our leg muscles and skin.  The oxygen depleted blood travels back to the heart and lungs for more oxygen by way of the veins.  Our veins contain many one way valves that are designed to prevent blood from traveling backwards down the leg in the direction of gravity.

When the vein valves do not work properly the blood travels back towards the ankle.  This reversal in the direction of blood flow results in high pressure within the veins.  Some patients develop obvious varicose veins while other patients may develop leg swelling and or other symptoms such as leg cramps at night or restless legs.  The symptoms are due to the pressure that develops in the veins.  This is known as venous insufficiency and the condition always progresses often leading to complications such as skin damage, blood cots, skin ulcers and rarely spontaneous bleeding.

Bailey Vein Institute is the most comprehensive vein center on the Big Island. We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care and achieving excellent results. Our ultimate goal is to have happy satisfied clients that will in turn spread positive news about our quality work.

Dr. Bailey’s goal is to provide patients with safe, leading edge, minimally invasive vein and cosmetic surgery in a comfortable non hospital setting.  Dr. Bailey offers a professional and personal consultation to discuss how he can help you look and feel your best.

Call today to schedule your consultation with the best Big Island vein center and experience state-of-the-art technology by Dr. Colin Bailey. 

Bailey Vein Institute

65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway, Suite 16
Kamuela, Hawaii 96743
Tel:  808.885.4401

What Medical Treatments are Available for Spider Veins

One of the most common reasons patients come to our office is because of their concern about Spider Veins.  Although they do not pose a health risk, they ARE a cosmetic concern.  Dr. Bailey has extensive knowledge in the most advanced techniques that will treat the condition and effectively diminish the veins.

What is a "Spider Vein?"

• The medical term for spider veins is telangiectasias. These fine red and purple veins are approximately 1 millimeter or less in size and can occur anywhere on the body. Patients most commonly seek treatment for spider veins on the legs and chest. Spider veins are often found in combination with varicose veins. There are no health risks with spider veins but they are a common cosmetic concern. The tendency to develop spider veins is inherited but can also occur after localized trauma and can worsen with pregnancy.

What Treatments are Available for Spider Veins?

• The "gold standard" treatment for the spider veins is sclerotherapy. This is considered a cosmetic procedure and is typically not covered by insurance or Medicare. Dr. Bailey uses one of two FDA approved solutions to perform cosmetic sclerotherapy. (Sotradecol®, Polydocanol®) These solutions are much safer and have a better side effect profile that the old hypertonic saline solution. The solution is injected into the spider vein with a small micro needle, causing the vein to seal shut. The vein eventually disappears with time.

• Although sclerotherapy continues to provide the best cosmetic results in the treatment of spider veins of the legs, occasionally a surface laser can be a helpful adjunct. For facial spider veins, laser and intense pulsed light are the true gold standard modalities for treatment. The Bailey Vein Institute has an extensive array of lasers and light sources specifically for the treatment of these spider veins. 

Dr. Bailey’s goal is to provide patients with safe, leading edge, minimally invasive vein and cosmetic surgery in a comfortable non hospital setting. Dr. Bailey offers a professional and personal consultation to discuss how he can help you look and feel your best.

Call today to schedule your consultation with at the ONLY Big Island vein center  and experience state-of-the-art technology by Dr. Colin Bailey. 

Bailey Vein Institute

65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway, Suite 16
Kamuela, Hawaii 96743
Tel:  808.885.4401

Meet Dr. Colin Bailey, Board Certified Surgeon at Bailey Vein Institute

 Dr. Colin E. Bailey is board certified in cosmetic surgery and his practice involves the full range of cosmetic surgery and modern vein care (phlebology).

He is a quadruple Board Certified Surgeon with almost 20 years of surgical experience. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and is one of only a few surgeons in the state of Missouri to have completed a highly competitive fellowship in cosmetic surgery. During his fellowship training Dr. Bailey was able to perform over 1100 cosmetic surgery operations. This exceptionally high volume, hands-on training experience far exceeds the typical 50 to 100 cosmetic surgical procedures commonly performed in most training programs.

Dr. Bailey is passionate about both cosmetic surgery and modern vein care. In building his practice, he has surrounded himself with a staff of nurses and technicians who love what they do and share a commitment to excellence in their work.

Dr. Bailey’s goal is to provide patients with safe, leading edge, minimally invasive vein and cosmetic surgery in a comfortable non hospital setting. Dr. Bailey offers a professional and personal consultation to discuss how he can help you look and feel your best.

Call today to schedule your consultation with at the ONLY Big Island vein center  and experience state-of-the-art technology by Dr. Colin Bailey. 

Bailey Vein Institute

65-1158 Mamalahoa Highway, Suite 16
Kamuela, Hawaii 96743
Tel:  808.885.4401