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Phlebolymphedema Overview

Phlebolymphedema Overview

Also known as combined venous and lymphatic insufficiency, venolymphatic insufficiency, mixed edema, venolymphedema, venous-lymphatic disease, dual insufficiency of the venous and lymphatic systems.

Phlebolymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by a combination of venous insufficiency and lymphatic dysfunction. It involves impaired circulation in the veins, leading to fluid buildup (edema) in the affected limb, along with lymphatic dysfunction, which further contributes to swelling and tissue damage.

Progression & Prognosis:

Progression & Prognosis:

Phlebolymphedema is a progressive condition that can worsen if left untreated. Without proper management, it can lead to complications such as skin changes, recurrent infections, and ulcerations. However, with appropriate treatment, including compression therapy and lifestyle modifications, symptoms can often be managed effectively, and progression can be slowed or halted.

Phlebolymphedema

Risk Factors & Underlying Conditions

  • Venous insufficiency: Damage to the valves in the leg veins, leading to poor circulation and fluid buildup in the limbs.
  • Lymphatic dysfunction: Impairment of the lymphatic system, which disrupts the drainage of lymph fluid and contributes to swelling and tissue damage.
  • Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the veins and lymphatic vessels, increasing the risk of phlebolymphedema.
  • Chronic venous disorders: Conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins, or venous ulcers can predispose individuals to phlebolymphedema.

Symptoms

Symptoms

  • Swelling in feet
  • Swelling in ankles
  • Leathery skin
  • Flaky skin
  • Itchy skin
  • Leg heaviness
  • Leg swelling
  • Leg tiredness
  • Leg achiness
  • Retention of fluid
  • Slow healing wounds on legs
  • Slow healing wounds on feet
  • Warmth in legs
  • Redness in legs
  • Edema in the affected limb
  • Recurrent infections
  • Reduced mobility

Specialized clinics like VIC Vein Clinic offer comprehensive care and expertise for the most effective management of phlebolymphedema.

Contact us today. No referral needed.

Treatments for Phlebolymphedema

Treatments for Phlebolymphedema

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight & diet, exercising regularly, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and elevating your legs can play a significant role in managing lipodermatosclerosis and reducing its symptoms.

Treat Underlying Chronic Venous Insufficiencies

  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), the most common method for vein therapy, uses heat energy in a minimally invasive fashion to close an offending vein. During the treatment, a thin, flexible catheter is inserted into the body to send out radiofrequency waves which heat the tissue. This cauterizes and closes the offending vein, thus shifting blood flow to a healthier system.

  • Varithena is a type of foam sclerotherapy used to treat varicose veins. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a foam solution directly into the affected veins. The foam displaces the blood within the vein, allowing the sclerosant (a medication that causes the vein to collapse) to come into direct contact with the vein wall.

Other Treatments Include

  • Manual Lymphatic drainage
  • Exercise
  • Skin care
  • Surgical intervention

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