The Sunday Times showcased the top 10 health and wellbeing experts to boost your body and mind. Renowned varicose vein consultant and vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt was featured highlighting “nagging health issues that often get overlooked – like uncomfortable varicose veins”
Varicose vein and thread vein treatments
” It was an honour to be promoted alongside fellow leading surgeons, helping readers find the expert help they need “
Varicose vein clinics
Michael Gaunt offers individual consultations at any one of his renowned varicose vein clinics in Harley Street, London, or his Cambridge varicose vein clinics: The Spire Lee and Nuffield Health. Experience bespoke treatment plans and minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins. Michael Gaunt specialises in Endovenous Laser and ClariVein techniques. For many patients, these procedures can be performed under local anaesthetic as walk-in, walk-out treatments.
Making the most of our health and wellbeing, keeping active and eating well has a direct impact on our vascular health. As we age many of us notice small thread veins on our ankles, knees and legs. Starting as a thin red or purple line thread veins quickly develop to form a fine web-like pattern that deepens in colour and spreads across the skin.
Thread veins may be the first visible indication that there is an underlying vascular problem. Varicose veins may not be visible but cause discomfort, pain, itching and irritation.
Restless, painful legs
Varicose vein symptoms are often overlooked. It’s a gradual process but If you notice thread veins and suffer with restless legs it’s worth seeking expert treatment.
“Many of my patients first experience discomfort at the end of the day. Relieving initial symptoms by raising their legs to alleviate pain and increase blood flow.”
Varicose vein symptoms
So, what do we need to look out for? If you notice any changes in your skin on your legs, especially around the ankles, develop thread veins or suffer with raised veins book a consultation.
Raised bulging veins
Thread veins and discoloured skin
Swollen feet and ankles
Aching, heavy and tired legs
Varicose vein treatment in London and Cambridge
Appointments are available in London or Cambridge. During your consultation Michael Gaunt will discuss your concerns, symptoms and medical history. You will be asked about any medications you take and if there are any medications you are allergic to.
Assessment includes a full examination of your legs, including a Duplex Ultrasound scan, to identify the pattern and distribution of abnormal deep veins. Michael Gaunt will record any skin discolouration or swelling; considering your risk of developing venous eczema or venous ulceration.
Booking a consultation with Michael Gaunt is easy, call or email us today.
Tel: 01223 305858
Email: megsecretaries@michaelgaunt.com
Due to her injection sclerotherapy treatment with Mr Michael Gaunt, Cheryl has been able to resume her travels, discovering new shores and living life to the full.
During an initial consultation Cheryl discussed her Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy varicose vein treatment plan with Mr Michael Gaunt, who explained the treatment options and the techniques and costs involved, as well as discussing which of his clinic locations she would prefer to attend.
Consequently Cheryl decided to proceed with Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy, which takes place in the Outpatient Clinic, and she had her treatment over the course of several sessions.
Cheryl’s treatment for varicose veins and her subsequent adventures across the world offer hope for those experiencing symptoms
“On the coast of Walvis Bay I walked along the beach – I was looking forward to touching the waters of the Atlantic Ocean again. Across the Ocean from where I am pointing in the photo is the coast of Brazil and Sao Paolo.
I truly cannot thank Mr Gaunt enough for my Sclerotherapy treatment. Without this I would not be exploring the world as I am.” Cheryl
A walk-in, walk-out varicose vein treatment
Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy is performed in the Outpatient clinic as a walk-in, walk-out procedure. Mr Michael Gaunt offers this to treat suitable varicose veins as well as saphenous veins causing underlying problems.
“Gently injecting the sclerosant into varicose veins, I work across the patients’ legs using ultrasound to identify exact placement” Mr Michael Gaunt
Each patient requires a bespoke treatment plan to ensure different sized varicose veins receive the correct strength of sclerosant. One leg is treated at a time with the second leg treated a couple of weeks later if needed. A review is performed 3 – 4 weeks after a course of treatment, when further treatment is scheduled only if required.
Varicose vein treatments and clinics near you
Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy is just one of the treatments available at any of Mr Michael Gaunt’s varicose vein clinics in London, Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds.
If you are concerned about varicose veins, have skin changes and suffer with painful legs, contact Mr Michael Gaunt for advice and a thorough varicose vein consultation to include a venous Duplex ultrasound scan.
Private Consultation Appointments with Mr Michael Gaunt:
9 Harley Street, London: 01223 305858
Circle St Edmunds Hospital: 01223 305858
Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital: 01223 266990
Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital: 01223 370922
Book a consultation with leading vascular surgeon Mr Michael Gaunt for expert medical advice and treatment options contact us>
Can I fly with varicose veins? Discover how to keep your legs healthy while travelling and learn valuable tips to prevent varicose veins from dampening your wanderlust.
“I paid for a pre-travel assessment with Michael Gaunt, it was the best money I spent”
Concerned about managing leg cramps and varicose veins? From long flights to scenic hikes, we’ve got you covered. Read our blog now and start planning your next journey with peace of mind!
Photo: Lia-Stepanov
Work life balance
So many of us are setting out on new adventures as we regain our work life balance, working remotely or retiring early. The zest for life is multi-generational with retirement no longer seen as an opportunity to slow-down. Baby boomers are into self-care, active holidays, cultural tours, luxury stays and cruises, they are no longer the stay-at-home generation. Far from it.
“Nothing beats the feeling of freedom and the opportunity to see the world”
Embracing adventure at any age!
Getting older doesn’t mean slowing down. In fact, it can be the perfect time to embrace new adventures and experiences. Whether it’s trekking through the Amazon rainforest, exploring ancient ruins in Greece, or simply relaxing on a pristine beach in the Caribbean, the world is yours to discover.
Now you can plan longer trips, take spontaneous getaways, or pursue hobbies and interests that align with your travel aspirations.
Prioritising Vascular Health
While the allure of travel is undeniable, it’s crucial to pay attention to your vascular health, especially as you age. Vascular conditions, such as varicose veins, can affect individuals of any age but become more prevalent as you get older. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear blue or dark purple and can cause discomfort, swelling, and aching in the legs.
“I was anxious about flying with painful, lumpy varicose veins”
Photo: Before and after varicose vein treatment by Mr Michael Gaunt
Varicose veins signs and symptoms
Bulging, twisted faulty veins in the lower leg and ankles, allowing blood to travel in the wrong direction.
Raised bulging veins on skin
Swollen feet and ankles
Aching, heavy legs
Muscle cramps, twitching in your legs
Red or darkened skin over the affected area
Blue veins under the skin surface
Tips for travelling with varicose veins
Long hours of sitting during flights or car rides, coupled with dehydration and changes in altitude, can exacerbate vascular issues. Prolonged inactivity can increase the risks of developing DVT, deep vein thrombosis. Therefore, it’s essential to take pro-active steps to care for your vascular health while travelling.
Travelling with varicose veins top tips:
Stay Active: Incorporate regular movement into your travel itinerary. Take breaks during long journeys to stretch your legs, go for short walks, or engage in low-impact exercises like yoga or swimming.
Hydrate: Proper hydration is vital for maintaining healthy blood circulation. Drink plenty of water, especially during flights or in hot climates, to prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Wear Compression Socks: Compression socks can help improve circulation and alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins. Wear them during long flights or extended periods of sitting to minimize discomfort and swelling in your legs.
Elevate Your Legs: Whenever possible, elevate your legs to reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Use pillows or footrests to prop up your legs while resting, whether you’re on a plane, train, or in your hotel room.
Choose Comfortable Footwear: Opt for shoes with good arch support and cushioning to minimize strain on your feet and legs. Avoid high heels or tight-fitting shoes, as they can exacerbate circulation issues and contribute to discomfort.
Practise Healthy Habits: Maintain a balanced diet, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking, as these lifestyle factors can impact vascular health. Incorporate nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into your meals to support overall wellbeing.
Pre-travel varicose vein and vascular health assessment
Contact Mr Michael Gaunt, consultant vascular surgeon, for an in-depth review of your varicose veins and vascular health. He will personally answer your concerns, examine your legs, perform a Duplex ultrasound scan and organise a bespoke treatment plan and varicose vein surgery if needed.
Going on holiday when you have painful varicose veins?
Are you planning a holiday, but are worried about long distance travel with varicose veins? Share your experience:
Book a consultation> Call 01223 305858 and Mr Gaunt’s administrative team will book a consultation for you.
Leading consultant vascular surgeon Mr Michael Gaunt offers his advice:
Varicose veins are very common, affecting at least 20% of the adult UK population. Symptoms can vary from unsightly, raised bulging veins to chronic leg pain and daily discomfort.
Many varicose vein symptoms increase with age or a sedentary lifestyle. Most of us are familiar with the advice to exercise regularly to avoid health risks associated with poor circulation. Did you know poor posture and lack of movement can lead to muscular stiffness, aches, and pains as well as affect your venous circulation.
Poor venous circulation symptoms:
Aches and pains
Restless legs
Itching skin
Swelling in your lower leg
Varicose veins
Thread veins
Skin discolouration around the ankles
Leg ulcers
A healthy lifestyle, eating well and finding ways to stay active is important and even more so if you have varicose veins, as weight gain can make symptoms seem worse.
Get active and improve your vein health
Varicose veins impair circulation, that’s why they often appear raised or bobbly. Instead of all the blood from the legs returning to the heart, a proportion of blood refluxes back down the superficial veins impairing the venous circulation of the leg and giving rise to the symptoms of aching, swelling and night cramps.
Poor circulation occurs when the blood doesn’t flow freely through the body. Blood flow naturally improves with the onset of activity, it needn’t be high impact, but it does need to be consistent and frequent.
You don’t have to run a marathon to improve your circulation, little changes like taking regular breaks if sitting at a desk all day, will help, and may temporarily reduce varicose vein symptoms.
Can I prevent varicose veins?
Unfortunately, you can’t prevent varicose veins, however the best way to avoid complications is to seek professional treatment early and not ignore symptoms. In the developing stages, varicose veins and thread veins may be primarily a cosmetic problem but if left untreated the condition can deteriorate and a variety of complications can occur such as leg swelling, pigmentation of the skin around the ankles and leg ulcers.
Top Tips for good vein care
Vary your day to include movement
Stretch and change your posture regularly
Alternatively flex and extend your ankle in a pumping action
Monitor your skin and vein changes
Seek a professional consultation and treatment package (link)
Varicose vein complications
Enlarged varicose veins appear twisted and raised on the skin. If left untreated further venous health complications may develop :
Increased pain and discomfort
Swelling and inflammation
Skin changes: broken skin and discolouration
Venous ulceration
Looking for varicose vein treatment?
Book a consultation with internationally renowned Mr Michael Gaunt, specialising in varicose vein and thread vein treatments using Endovenous Laser (EVLA), ClariVein (MOCA), Ultrasound Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS) and saline micro-injection sclerotherapy. with award winning patient satisfaction.
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, and Cambridge 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 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 .
