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Varicose veins during and after pregnancy – what you need to know.

Photo by Pelayo Arbués on Unsplash

Why am I susceptible to varicose veins during pregnancy?

Many women first notice varicose veins during pregnancy, when significant weight fluctuations and hormone changes impact on the development and symptoms of varicose veins. Unfortunately, broken veins and spider veins may also develop, with some mothers-to-be experiencing uncomfortable swollen ankles and suffering from poor circulation.

With the increase of blood during pregnancy, progesterone levels rise, prompting the walls of your blood vessels to relax. Your body has to work harder to return blood back to your heart, significantly increasing the risks of developing varicose veins in your legs.

Will varicose veins affect my pregnancy?

The good news is that varicose veins do not affect your baby and most certainly do not put your unborn child at risk.  However, they can be troublesome, with on-going symptoms, often worse at night and increasing as the pregnancy reaches full term.

What causes varicose veins?

Varicose veins are caused by weaknesses in veins’ valves which prevent blood flowing properly between each of the vessels. If a one-way valve fails, the blood refluxes and gets stored in the veins near the surface of the skin. This makes the vein expand, causing it to twist and protrude, presenting as a lumpy raised vein, either deep blue or red in appearance.

Top symptoms of varicose veins

  • Aching or heavy feeling in your legs
  • Painful throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in your lower legs
  • Swollen ankles
  • Worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time
  • Restless legs, especially at night
  • Persistent leg itching
  • Skin discolouration around the ankles

How can I reduce varicose vein discomfort?

  •  Move around as much as possible and take frequent breaks if you have to stand or sit for long periods of time
  • Wear maternity support or compression tights

What varicose vein treatments are available?

 Successful treatment depends on careful pre-operative assessment. Reviewing visible swollen veins are just the tip of the iceberg. Mr Michael Gaunt assesses the underlying vascular condition before deciding upon the most suitable treatment for each patient.

“I perform a full diagnostic assessment with a Duplex ultrasound scan to identify the problematic veins and underlying problem before recommending the best procedure and treatment plan for you”

 As one of the most experienced and respected surgeons in the UK, Michael Gaunt takes pride in delivering the highest quality of award-winning patient service and he specialises in minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins using:

  • Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
  • VNUS Closure
  • ClariVein
  • Sclerotherapy
  • Microsclerotherapy
  • VeinWave

Recommended after the birth, these procedures can be performed under local anaesthetic as walk in / walk out treatments, allowing you time to enjoy your new family with little impact on your busy lifestyle.

To learn more or to book an appointment with Mr Michael Gaunt call his specialist team on 01223 305858

 

Photo by Pelayo Arbués on Unsplash

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Tatler Beauty & Cosmetic Surgery Guide

Mr Michael Gaunt showcased for third year.

Helping you find effective professional treatment of varicose veins,

spider veins and associated cosmetic problems. 

‘The definitive online lifestyle guide for anyone wanting to find the best of everything’ Tatler Address book features the very best UK beauty and cosmetic surgeons. Mr Michael Gaunt, internationally renowned vascular surgeon, is featured for the third consecutive year.

As a specialist surgeon, Mr Michael Gaunt completely understands the psychological impact of unsightly veins. His private clinics in Harley Street, Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds and Norwich offer patients the latest technology and professional treatments.

Whether it’s a spidery blotch or raised leg veins that are bothering you, Mr Michael Gaunt insists on a full evaluation using a duplex ultrasound scan to ensure the exact source of the problematic veins.  The scan will determine the correct individual treatment plan for you and Mr Michael Gaunt will talk you through the whole process.

‘Painful or unsightly veins? Mr Michael Gaunt will put the bounce back into your step’ – Tatler

Renowned Mr Michael Gaunt personally performs minimally invasive treatment of varicose veins using Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), VNUS Closure and ClariVein. He also performs ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, microsclerotherapy and VeinWave techniques.

Earlier this year, Mr Michael Gaunt enjoyed the Tatler Breakfast event  celebrating the Tatler Address Book 2020. Hosted at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in London by Richard Dennen, Tatler’s editor, and Francesca White, Health and Beauty Editor-at-Large. Michael welcomed the opportunity to meet and talk to other leading health professionals and discuss his approach to the treatment of varicose veins, unsightly thread veins and spider veins as well as other conditions affecting the venous system.

Mr Michael Gaunt holding a copy of Tatler magazine
Mr Michael Gaunt at Tatler Beauty & Cosmetic Guide launch

There’s a wide choice of treatments and procedures available to combat varicose veins and thread veins. An individual treatment plan, that’s specifically tailored for you and your lifestyle, is crucial to achieving the results you want. 

Consultations with Mr Michael Gaunt are available at Harley Street London, BMI Bury St. Edmunds, Spire Norwich, Nuffield Health Cambridge or Spire Lea Cambridge .

Contact: 01223 305858.

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Embarrassed by red thread veins? Do you long for clear unblemished skin?

Leading consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt says modern treatment methods offer a quick and effective solution.

Most of us want to hold back the signs of ageing and reduce skin blemishes. Thread veins or spider veins are a familiar problem for men and women. The tiny red or purple broken veins are most commonly found on the face, around the cheeks and nose, but also appear on ankles and legs. They initially emerge as one or two tiny fine lines but develop a web like pattern, that enlarges across the skin; hence the term spider vein. Continue reading “Embarrassed by red thread veins? Do you long for clear unblemished skin?”