Introduction
Venous eczema, also known as gravitational eczema or stasis eczema, is a common skin condition that affects around 20 percent of adults over the age of 70. While it is more prevalent among older individuals, it can also occur in younger people who have a genetic predisposition to varicose veins. If left untreated, venous eczema can lead to the breakdown of the skin and the formation of ulcers. As a medical practitioner with over 40 years of experience, I have treated numerous patients with venous eczema. In this article, I will provide you with an overview of the causes and treatments for this condition to help you better understand it.
What is Venous Eczema?
Venous eczema is characterized by the presence of a dermatitis on the lower legs that resembles eczema. The affected area appears red, inflamed, and may have a flat or bubbly appearance. Dry and flaky skin is also common. Swelling of the extremity can also occur, and in some cases, there may be weeping of serum, giving the affected area a wet appearance.
Causes of Venous Eczema
The primary cause of venous eczema is venous insufficiency or increased pressure within the leg veins. This condition can have multiple contributing factors, but it is primarily due to the malfunction of one-way venous valves. These valves are responsible for directing blood upwards to the heart. When these valves fail, gravity pulls the blood down towards the feet, leading to engorged leg veins and increased pressure. This results in swelling and triggers an inflammatory process, leading to the production of various inflammatory compounds such as cytokines, interleukins, and metalloproteases. Essentially, this creates a localized cytokine storm in the lower leg, which affects the overlying skin.
Treatment Options for Venous Eczema
There are several treatment options available to alleviate the symptoms of venous eczema. One effective method is to reduce the pressure in the lower leg by elevating the feet higher than the heart. This helps to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Additionally, wearing gradient support medical socks or using a pneumatic pump device can provide relief. Another option is to take vein supplements containing Diosmin in a micronized purified formula at the correct dosage. Consulting with a vein specialist is crucial for employing these conservative therapies and obtaining appropriate ultrasound studies to detect any underlying venous disorders that may be contributing to the problem.
The Outlook for Individuals with Venous Eczema
Venous eczema can disrupt blood flow and lead to a range of skin conditions. It is most commonly observed in the lower legs, and if left untreated, it can result in severe complications. If you have noticed any changes in your skin, such as the presence of varicose veins, it is important to consult with your physician. They can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a vein specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
In conclusion, venous eczema is a prevalent skin condition that primarily affects older adults but can also occur in younger individuals with a genetic predisposition to varicose veins. Understanding the causes and treatment options for this condition is crucial for effectively managing its symptoms and preventing complications. If you suspect that you may have venous eczema, it is always best to consult with a medical professional for proper diagnosis and guidance on the most suitable treatment plan for you.
This article was originally published on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.
It is important not to forget that some CAM modalities overlap or complement conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists can use botanicals and mineral to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
Is it possible for a holistic doctor to prescribe prescriptions?
Holistic medicine is based upon the belief that all diseases can be caused by a combination factors. This includes diet, lifestyle, environment stress, stress, emotions, genetics and other health-related issues.
A well-rounded approach to treating patients includes considering these variables when prescribing medication.
Physicians must know both modern science and traditional methods, such as homeopathy and herbs, to fully understand the impact of each factor on patients.
Many doctors are now certified in complementary and alternate medicine (C&A). This allows them the ability to offer a wide variety of services to their clients.
Who uses alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid harmful drugs and surgery.
- They believe that natural remedies work better.
- They prefer non-invasive therapies.
- They want to spend less.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They desire greater control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They seek a more healthy environment.
- They want less stress in their lives.
- They want greater freedom to choose their doctors and healthcare plans.
- They want their children to have a better education.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They want safe, effective medications.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials on Acupuncture to Treat Insomnia
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What should you look for in a holistic doctor?
How to find a good doctor who specializes in holistic medicine?
Doctors who specialize in their chosen field are the best. Holistic medicine is what we are referring too. This means that doctors should be able to treat their patients holistically. It is important for them to understand how to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. A holistic doctor should have a deep understanding of holistic health.
Doctors must be well-versed in holistic health. They should also be familiar with complementary and other therapies (CAM), like acupuncture or chiropractic care.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
You should also ask if the doctor has certifications from professional organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the American Holistic Medical Association. NBOHMCA certification is available in many areas, such as naturopathic, acupuncture or homeopathy, clinical nutritional, herbal medicine, aromatherapy and clinical nutrition.
Our directory can help you find holistic practitioners in your area. If one is not listed, you can search online to find a holistic doctor close by.
For holistic healthcare, please contact your nearest hospital or medical center.
Your local library has books and resources that can help you with holistic health.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Venous Eczema: Understanding the Diagnosis and Treatment
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/skin/venous-eczema-diagnosis-and-treatment/
Published Date: Mon, 27 Nov 2023 23:15:32 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.
It is important not to forget that some CAM modalities overlap or complement conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists can use botanicals and mineral to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
- Provincial regulatory bodies grant licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
Is it possible for a holistic doctor to prescribe prescriptions?
Holistic medicine is based upon the belief that all diseases can be caused by a combination factors. This includes diet, lifestyle, environment stress, stress, emotions, genetics and other health-related issues.
A well-rounded approach to treating patients includes considering these variables when prescribing medication.
Physicians must know both modern science and traditional methods, such as homeopathy and herbs, to fully understand the impact of each factor on patients.
Many doctors are now certified in complementary and alternate medicine (C&A). This allows them the ability to offer a wide variety of services to their clients.
Who uses alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid harmful drugs and surgery.
- They believe that natural remedies work better.
- They prefer non-invasive therapies.
- They want to spend less.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They desire greater control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They seek a more healthy environment.
- They want less stress in their lives.
- They want greater freedom to choose their doctors and healthcare plans.
- They want their children to have a better education.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They want safe, effective medications.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials on Acupuncture to Treat Insomnia
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What should you look for in a holistic doctor?
How to find a good doctor who specializes in holistic medicine?
Doctors who specialize in their chosen field are the best. Holistic medicine is what we are referring too. This means that doctors should be able to treat their patients holistically. It is important for them to understand how to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. A holistic doctor should have a deep understanding of holistic health.
Doctors must be well-versed in holistic health. They should also be familiar with complementary and other therapies (CAM), like acupuncture or chiropractic care.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
You should also ask if the doctor has certifications from professional organizations like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the American Holistic Medical Association. NBOHMCA certification is available in many areas, such as naturopathic, acupuncture or homeopathy, clinical nutritional, herbal medicine, aromatherapy and clinical nutrition.
Our directory can help you find holistic practitioners in your area. If one is not listed, you can search online to find a holistic doctor close by.
For holistic healthcare, please contact your nearest hospital or medical center.
Your local library has books and resources that can help you with holistic health.
