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Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana - Ricardo Vasquez, M.D.

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Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana - Ricardo Vasquez, M.D.

Dr. Ricardo Vasquez Vascular Care: Expert surgeries & treatments for vascular health. Trustworthy, quality care.

Specializing in treatment of varicose veins, leg swelling, stroke prevention, and peripheral artery disease leg pain. Ricardo Vasquez, MD, is a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon at the Vascular Center & Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana which was founded in 2007. His expertise and private practice has been serving patients and providing trustworthy care from offices in Bloomington and Bedford. After earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Physiology from the University of California, Davis, Dr. Vasquez went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Iowa. He continued his General Surgery Residency training at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine-Cabrini Medical Center in New York City, while being recognized Chief Resident. Dr. Vasquez earned his vascular and endovascular fellowship from the Boston University Medical Center in Massachusetts. Dr. Vasquez has been utilizing cutting-edge techniques and the latest medical devices to advance the treatments of his vascular surgery patients. He has a nationally accredited angiogram suite and a vascular ultrasound laboratory to help diagnose and treat patients. As a prominent vascular surgeon in the community, Dr. Vasquez has served on many hospital credentialing and administrative committees, as well as advisory boards. His practice mentors medical students, ultrasonographers and medical assistants from Indiana University and Ivy Tech Community College. He is an active supporter of the Monroe County public school system and local athletics.

01/24/2026

Arterial vs. Venous Ulcers: How to Tell the Difference

Leg wounds that fail to heal can be stressful, painful, and confusing for patients. Many people assume all leg ulcers are the same, but in reality, the cause of the ulcer determines how it should be treated. The two most common types are venous ulcers and arterial ulcers, and each requires very different medical management. Treating the wrong type—or delaying proper evaluation—can lead to serious complications.

At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Ricardo Vasquez has more than 20 years of experience diagnosing and treating both venous and arterial ulcers. With the only fully accredited vascular lab operated by a vascular surgeon within 100 miles, Dr. Vasquez provides immediate, in-office ultrasound testing and expert evaluation without the need for a hospital referral. This ensures patients receive accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment right away.

What Are Venous Ulcers?

Venous ulcers are the most common type of leg ulcer and typically result from venous insufficiency—a condition in which the valves in the leg veins stop functioning properly. When these valves fail, blood pools in the lower legs, increasing pressure in the surrounding tissues. Over time, this persistent pressure causes swelling, skin discoloration, inflammation, and eventually skin breakdown.

Venous ulcers tend to appear on the inner ankle or lower leg, where swelling is most pronounced. The skin around the ulcer may appear brownish, hardened, or irritated. These ulcers often ooze fluid and may be accompanied by aching, heaviness, or chronic swelling.

Without correcting the underlying vein reflux, these ulcers tend to heal slowly or repeatedly reopen. Fortunately, modern office-based vein treatments—such as Venefit™ radiofrequency ablation or Varithena®—can significantly improve circulation and support healing.

What Are Arterial Ulcers?

Arterial ulcers, on the other hand, are caused by poor blood flow to the legs, usually from peripheral artery disease (PAD). In PAD, plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing or blocking blood flow. Without enough oxygen and nutrients reaching the tissues, the skin can break down, especially with minor trauma.

Arterial ulcers most commonly appear on the toes, feet, or bony areas, such as the heels. The surrounding skin may feel cool, pale, or thin. Patients often experience leg pain when walking (claudication) or even at rest if circulation is severely reduced. Arterial ulcers rarely ooze fluid because blood supply is limited, and they tend to be deep, dry, and painful.

Unlike venous ulcers, arterial ulcers will not heal unless blood flow is restored. This requires prompt vascular evaluation to determine whether medical therapy, angioplasty, stenting, or other interventions are needed.

Why Proper Diagnosis Matters

Although venous and arterial ulcers can look similar to the untrained eye, treating them incorrectly can have serious consequences. For example:

- Compression therapy helps venous ulcers but can be dangerous in untreated arterial disease.

- Wound dressings alone will not correct the underlying cause of either type.

- Delayed diagnosis may increase risk of infection, tissue loss, or even amputation in severe arterial disease.

Because the treatment pathways differ so greatly, accurate diagnosis is essential—and this begins with a vascular ultrasound performed by an experienced specialist.

At Dr. Vasquez’s office, patients receive same-day evaluation using an accredited vascular ultrasound lab. This allows him to assess blood flow in both the arteries and veins, determine the exact cause of the ulcer, and recommend the appropriate treatment immediately—without hospital delays or high facility fees.

When to Seek an Evaluation

If you have a wound on your leg, ankle, foot, or toes that hasn’t healed within two weeks—or if you have increasing swelling, discoloration, pain, or skin breakdown—you should schedule an evaluation promptly. No referral is needed.

Call 812-336-6008 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez, board-certified vascular surgeon at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana. Early diagnosis leads to faster healing, fewer complications, and better long-term outcomes.

01/16/2026

Why Leg Ulcers Don’t Heal: The Role of Venous Insufficiency

Leg ulcers—especially those located around the ankles and lower legs—can be frustrating, painful, and incredibly slow to heal. Many patients try topical creams, wound dressings, and repeated courses of antibiotics for weeks or even months before realizing that the wound is not improving. The reason is simple: most chronic leg ulcers are caused by venous insufficiency, a circulation problem that must be diagnosed and treated by a vascular specialist, not just managed with surface-level wound care.

At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Ricardo Vasquez provides comprehensive, in-office evaluation and advanced treatment for venous ulcers and non-healing wounds. With more than 20 years of experience and the only fully accredited vascular lab operated by a vascular surgeon within 100 miles, Dr. Vasquez offers immediate, affordable, high-quality vascular care without the need for a hospital referral.

Understanding Venous Insufficiency

Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves inside the veins of the legs weaken or become damaged. These valves normally move blood upward toward the heart, but when they fail, blood flows backward and pools in the lower legs. This increased pressure gradually affects the skin and soft tissue, leading to swelling, heaviness, itching, and eventually skin breakdown.

When the skin becomes inflamed and fragile from poor circulation, even a small scratch, insect bite, or bump can turn into a non-healing wound. This is why leg ulcers caused by venous insufficiency often linger for weeks or continually reopen—the underlying pressure and poor blood flow prevent normal healing.

Why Venous Ulcers Struggle to Heal

A venous ulcer cannot heal properly if the pressure in the leg veins remains high. Poor circulation limits the skin’s access to oxygen and nutrients, and swelling reduces the body’s ability to repair itself. Many patients mistakenly assume they simply need stronger ointment or better bandages, when in reality the problem lies beneath the skin.

Chronic venous pressure leads to thickened, discolored skin (often brown or reddish), constant swelling, and a cycle of inflammation that makes healing nearly impossible without addressing the vein problem directly. Additionally, venous ulcers tend to drain fluid, which increases the risk of infection and further delays healing.

How Venous Ulcers Are Treated

Effective treatment begins with identifying and correcting the underlying venous insufficiency. At Dr. Vasquez’s office, treatment plans often include a combination of minimally invasive vein procedures, compression therapy, and medical guidance tailored to the patient’s specific condition.

Modern vein treatments—such as radiofrequency ablation (Venefit), Varithena, and sclerotherapy—are performed in-office using only local anesthesia. These procedures reduce venous pressure by closing malfunctioning veins and rerouting blood into healthier ones. Once pressure improves, the ulcer receives the circulation it needs to heal properly. Most patients experience significant improvements within weeks.

Compression therapy may also be recommended to support circulation and reduce swelling. Unlike general wound care, these treatments target the root cause rather than just managing symptoms.

Why Early Evaluation Is Essential

The longer venous ulcers are left untreated, the more complications can develop. Persistent ulcers can lead to infection, cellulitis, worsening swelling, increased pain, and long-term skin changes. Many patients do not realize how serious venous disease can become until the wound grows larger or deeper.

Early evaluation by a vascular surgeon prevents complications and improves healing outcomes. With Dr. Vasquez’s accredited vascular lab on-site, patients receive immediate diagnosis and personalized treatment—without the delays and high costs associated with hospital-based testing.

No Referral Needed — Call Today

Patients in Bloomington and southern Indiana can schedule directly with Dr. Vasquez—no referral is required. If you have a leg ulcer that will not heal, worsening skin discoloration, or persistent swelling, prompt evaluation is essential.

Call 812-336-6008 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez, board-certified vascular surgeon at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana.

01/08/2026

Heat, Rash, Skin Discoloration, and Veins: What’s Normal—and What’s Not?

As temperatures rise, many patients begin noticing changes in their legs: redness, rashes, itching, swelling, or darkening of the skin. While some skin changes are harmless, others can be early warning signs of underlying venous disease. Knowing what’s normal—and what isn’t—can help prevent complications.

At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, Dr. Ricardo Vasquez, a board-certified vascular surgeon with over 20 years of experience, evaluates and treats these conditions with immediate, in-office vascular ultrasound. Dr. Vasquez and Monroe Hospital were recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024—the only hospital in Indiana with this distinction. No referral is needed, and patients can schedule directly for rapid evaluation.

Why Heat Makes Vein Symptoms Worse

Warm weather naturally causes veins to dilate, increasing blood pooling in the legs. For patients with early or undiagnosed venous insufficiency, this can worsen swelling, heaviness, and skin irritation. As pressure builds, the skin becomes more vulnerable to inflammation, rashes, and color changes.

Common Skin Changes Related to Venous Disease

Some skin findings may seem minor but actually signal a deeper vascular issue:

1. Red or itchy rash around the lower legs (Venous Stasis Dermatitis)

This often appears on the inner or outer ankle and can mimic eczema. It is caused by chronic fluid buildup and inflammation from poor vein function. Without treatment, the skin may become fragile and prone to cracking or ulceration.

2. Brown or dark discoloration around the ankles (Hemosiderin Staining)

This is not normal aging. It happens when red blood cells leak out of high-pressure veins into the skin. Over time, this pigmentation becomes permanent and is an early sign of worsening venous insufficiency.

3. Heat-triggered swelling

Some mild swelling in hot weather can be normal, but swelling that worsens throughout the day, improves with elevation, or appears in only one leg may indicate venous disease or even a blood clot.

4. Hardened or tight skin on the lower legs (Lipodermatosclerosis)

This suggests long-standing venous hypertension and is a precursor to venous ulcers.

5. Recurrent redness or warmth

While sometimes due to simple heat rash, persistent warmth can also signal inflammation related to varicose veins or superficial thrombophlebitis.

When Skin Changes Are NOT Normal

You should seek vascular evaluation if you develop:

- New or worsening leg swelling

- Skin discoloration around the ankles

- Recurrent rashes or itching

- Hardening or thickening of the skin

- Sudden warmth, redness, or pain along a vein

These symptoms are commonly linked to chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, or superficial vein thrombosis—conditions that require proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

The Importance of Early Evaluation

Skin changes are one of the earliest—and most visible—warning signs that the veins are under strain. With early diagnosis using in-office vascular ultrasound, treatment can start before the skin breaks down or ulcers form.

If You Notice a Rash or Skin Discoloration, Don’t Ignore It

Many patients assume these changes are “just from the heat” or “just aging,” but they often indicate early vein disease that is easier to treat when caught early.

Schedule your evaluation at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana by calling 812-336-6008. Dr. Ricardo Vasquez provides expert care, same-day ultrasound, and effective treatment options—all without hospital wait times or added facility fees.

12/12/2025

Standing All Day? How Your Job Affects Your Veins

Jobs that require prolonged standing place constant stress on the veins of the legs. Over time, this can impair circulation and lead to symptoms such as leg swelling, aching, heaviness, and varicose veins. While these symptoms are often dismissed as part of a demanding workday, they frequently reflect underlying vein disease that should be medically evaluated.

At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, Dr. Ricardo Vasquez—a board-certified vascular surgeon with more than 20 years of experience—treats patients whose occupations contribute directly to chronic venous insufficiency and other vascular conditions. His office offers same-day, in-office vascular ultrasound in a fully accredited vascular lab. Dr. Vasquez and Monroe Hospital were recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024, the only hospital in Indiana with this distinction.

Why Prolonged Standing Affects Circulation

When standing for long periods, the calf muscles are less effective at pumping blood upward toward the heart. This increases pressure within the leg veins, particularly in the lower legs and ankles. Over time, vein valves may weaken, allowing blood to pool and causing progressive venous insufficiency. This process often develops gradually and may worsen with continued occupational exposure.

Occupations at Higher Risk

Healthcare workers, teachers, factory and warehouse employees, retail workers, and service professionals such as hair stylists and restaurant staff are commonly affected. These jobs often involve standing on hard surfaces for extended periods with limited opportunity for leg elevation or movement, increasing venous pressure throughout the workday.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Work-related vein disease commonly presents with swelling that worsens by evening, leg heaviness, aching or burning discomfort, visible varicose veins, and nighttime cramping. Some patients develop skin changes near the ankles over time. These symptoms may temporarily improve with rest but typically recur during the next work shift.

Evaluation and Treatment Options

Persistent symptoms should be evaluated with vascular ultrasound, which assesses vein valve function and blood flow. At Dr. Vasquez’s office, ultrasound is performed on-site, allowing for immediate diagnosis without hospital scheduling delays or additional facility fees. Patients can schedule directly—no referral is required.

When indicated, treatment options include minimally invasive, office-based procedures such as radiofrequency ablation, Varithena® microfoam, or ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. These treatments address the underlying cause of venous disease and are typically well tolerated with minimal downtime.

When to Seek Care

If leg pain, swelling, or varicose veins are becoming routine at the end of the workday, early evaluation can prevent progression and reduce the risk of complications such as skin damage or ulcers.

To schedule an appointment, call 812-336-6008 to see Dr. Ricardo Vasquez at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana. Expert diagnosis, in-office ultrasound, and effective treatment are available in one convenient visit.

12/09/2025

Why Your Ankles Swell in the Evening: What It Means and When to Get Help

Many people notice that their ankles and lower legs become swollen late in the day. It often starts with a feeling of tightness in the shoes, a heavy sensation in the legs, or a slight imprint from socks on the skin. While occasional swelling may seem harmless, for many patients it is a sign of an underlying circulation or vein problem that should be evaluated — especially when it happens frequently.

At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, Dr. Ricardo Vasquez is a board-certified vascular surgeon with over 20 years of experience caring for patients with leg swelling, varicose veins, and circulation disorders. His office has a fully accredited vascular ultrasound lab, and Monroe Hospital was recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024 — the only hospital in Indiana with this distinction. Patients can be seen without a referral, and ultrasounds are performed in the office for convenience and affordability.

Why Swelling Is Worse at the End of the Day

Throughout the day, gravity causes blood and fluid to drift toward the lower legs, especially when a person is sitting or standing for long periods. The veins must work harder to push blood upward toward the heart, and if they are not functioning properly, fluid can accumulate around the ankles.

The most common cause of evening swelling is chronic venous insufficiency. When the valves inside the leg veins become weak, blood flows backward and pools in the lower legs. This results in heaviness, aching, cramping, itching, and swelling that gradually worsens throughout the day. Varicose veins are often present, but some patients experience swelling even before visible veins appear.

Heat, salty foods, long car or plane trips, and dehydration can make swelling worse. This is why symptoms often increase during summer months or after long days on your feet.

Medical Conditions That Can Contribute

While vein problems are the most frequent cause of ankle swelling, other conditions can contribute as well. Heart disease, kidney disease, and certain medications may cause fluid retention. Lymphedema — a condition where the lymphatic system does not drain properly — can cause persistent swelling, thickened skin, and difficulty fitting into shoes. In some patients, swelling may be an early sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot that needs immediate evaluation. Sudden swelling, pain, redness, or warmth in one leg should never be ignored.

When Swelling Is a Warning Sign

Swelling that occurs regularly at the end of the day should be evaluated, especially if it is accompanied by:

- heaviness or aching

- itching or discoloration near the ankles

- visible bulging veins

- skin changes such as dryness or darkening

These symptoms may indicate progressive vein disease. Without treatment, long-term swelling can damage the skin and eventually lead to ulcers around the ankles.

Why In-Office Ultrasound Makes a Difference

One of the most important steps in diagnosing the cause of leg swelling is vascular ultrasound. At Dr. Vasquez’s office, ultrasound is performed immediately — without hospital scheduling delays, facility fees, or radiology charges. Patients receive their evaluation, imaging, and treatment plan in the same visit. For many patients, this eliminates weeks of waiting, multiple appointments, and significantly higher hospital costs.

Patients can call directly for an appointment. No referral is required. This is especially important in Indiana, where access to primary care providers can be limited. Early evaluation can rule out dangerous causes such as DVT and confirm whether vein disease is contributing to symptoms.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If your ankles swell at the end of the day, you don’t have to wait or guess what is causing it. A simple in-office ultrasound can provide answers and help prevent future complications. Many patients feel better quickly once the underlying problem is identified and treated.

To schedule an appointment, call 812-336-6008. Dr. Vasquez provides immediate, expert, and affordable vascular care for patients throughout Bloomington and southern Indiana.

11/21/2025

Post-Pregnancy Vein Care: What New Moms Should Know

Pregnancy places significant stress on the veins, and for many new mothers, leg swelling, visible veins, or aching sensations continue long after delivery. While some postpartum vein changes improve naturally, others may be signs of underlying venous insufficiency that requires medical evaluation. At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, Dr. Ricardo Vasquez—a board-certified vascular surgeon with more than 20 years of experience—provides expert, affordable, and convenient in-office evaluations to help new moms understand and treat vein issues. Dr. Vasquez and Monroe Hospital were recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024, the only hospital in Indiana with this distinction.

How Pregnancy Affects Vein Health

During pregnancy, blood volume increases, hormones relax the vein walls, and the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the pelvis and legs. These factors slow circulation and make varicose veins, swelling, and discomfort more likely to develop. While these symptoms are common, persistent problems after delivery may indicate that the veins have been significantly stretched or damaged.

What Changes After Delivery

In the first two to three months postpartum, many women notice improvement as hormone levels stabilize and pressure on the veins decreases. However, varicose veins that remain painful, swollen, or visible often reflect chronic venous insufficiency. New moms should pay attention to lingering symptoms such as heaviness in the legs, swelling that worsens throughout the day, and areas of discoloration around the ankles. Sudden redness or tenderness along a vein may also signal superficial thrombophlebitis, which should be evaluated promptly.

Postpartum is one of the best times to assess vein health because symptoms tend to stabilize, allowing underlying circulation issues to be clearly identified.

In-Office Diagnosis and Treatment Options

At our Bloomington clinic, Dr. Vasquez offers same-day, in-office vascular ultrasound to determine whether vein reflux or other vascular issues are contributing to postpartum symptoms. Because this testing is performed in our accredited vascular lab, patients receive immediate answers without hospital fees or delays.

When treatment is needed, modern vein procedures are minimally invasive, require only local anesthesia, and allow new moms to resume normal activities quickly. Options such as radiofrequency ablation (Venefit), Varithena microfoam, and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy are performed entirely in-office, making them convenient and cost-effective for mothers.

Supporting Vein Recovery at Home

Simple daily habits can help improve circulation during the postpartum period. Elevating the legs when possible, wearing medical-grade compression stockings, staying active with walking or light movement, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can all reduce swelling and discomfort. Maintaining good hydration and returning to a healthy postpartum weight also support vein recovery.

When to Seek Care

If you are noticing persistent leg swelling, painful varicose veins, heaviness, or new skin changes after childbirth, you do not need a referral to be evaluated. Early assessment can relieve symptoms, prevent progression, and provide peace of mind.

Call 812-336-6008 to schedule your postpartum vein evaluation with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana. With expert diagnostics and advanced office-based treatments, we are here to help new moms feel comfortable, supported, and confident in their vascular health.

11/15/2025

Excellence in Vascular Care: Dr. Ricardo Vasquez

The Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana is proud to announce that our In-Office Vascular Lab has once again earned national re-accreditation, marking the fourth time in nearly 20 years that we have achieved this distinction. This certification demonstrates our continued commitment to providing the highest quality, most affordable vascular care in the greater Bloomington area.

Under the direction of Dr. Ricardo Vasquez, a board-certified vascular surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, our lab remains the only fully accredited vascular laboratory within a 100-mile radius managed by a vascular surgeon. This means patients receive accurate, immediate diagnostic results and treatment planning—all in one location, without hospital delays or excessive costs.

In addition to our accreditation, Dr. Vasquez and Monroe Hospital were recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024, the only hospital in Indiana to earn this honor. Dr. Vasquez has also received multiple Five-Star Ratings from Healthgrades, reflecting his long-standing dedication to patient safety, quality, and clinical excellence.

At our Bloomington office, patients benefit from:

- Affordable, hospital-quality vascular imaging performed on site

- Immediate results interpreted directly by an experienced vascular surgeon

- Comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s needs

- Advanced vein and vascular treatments performed safely in-office

Whether you are dealing with leg pain, swelling, varicose veins, or need an urgent vascular ultrasound, you can rely on our accredited lab and expert team for quick, accurate, and affordable care—right here in Southern Indiana.

Call 812-336-6008 today to schedule your in-office vascular ultrasound with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez and experience the difference that decades of expertise and national recognition make in your vascular care.

Whether you are dealing with leg pain, swelling, varicose veins, or need an urgent vascular ultrasound, you can rely on our accredited lab and expert team for quick, accurate, and affordable care—right here in Southern Indiana.
Call 812-336-6008 today to schedule your in-office vascular ultrasound with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez and experience the difference that decades of expertise and national recognition make in your vascular care.

11/07/2025

Compression Stockings 101: Do They Really Work?

Compression stockings have long been recommended as a first line of defense against leg swelling, varicose veins, and venous insufficiency. But do they really work? The short answer is yes—when used correctly. These medical-grade garments play an important role in improving circulation and preventing the progression of vein disease. At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, Dr. Ricardo Vasquez, board-certified vascular surgeon with more than 20 years of experience treating veins and peripheral artery disease, helps patients find the right compression solutions for their needs. Dr. Vasquez and Monroe Hospital were recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024—the only hospital in Indiana with this distinction.

How Compression Stockings Work

Compression stockings are designed to gently squeeze the legs, applying the most pressure at the ankle and gradually decreasing up the leg. This graduated compression assists the veins in moving blood upward toward the heart, reducing pooling and swelling. By improving blood flow, compression helps relieve symptoms of tired, heavy, or achy legs and can prevent further vein deterioration.

Who Benefits from Compression Therapy

Compression stockings can be beneficial for:

- Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency – Reduces swelling, aching, and heaviness.

- Post-procedure recovery – Supports healing after treatments such as Varithena, Venefit, or sclerotherapy.

- Pregnancy – Alleviates swelling and discomfort from increased venous pressure.

- Long flights or car rides – Prevents blood pooling and lowers the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

- Occupations with prolonged standing or sitting – Provides relief for nurses, teachers, and office workers.

Choosing the Right Compression Stockings

There are several types of compression stockings, ranging from light, over-the-counter versions to prescription-strength medical-grade garments. Key factors to consider include:

1. Compression strength: Measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Mild (15–20 mmHg) is often used for prevention, while higher pressures (20–30 mmHg or 30–40 mmHg) are typically prescribed for diagnosed vein disease.

2. Length: Knee-high stockings are most common, but thigh-high or pantyhose styles may be needed for extensive varicose veins or swelling above the knee.

3. Fit: Proper sizing is crucial. Stockings that are too tight can cause discomfort, while loose ones won’t be effective.

At Dr. Vasquez’s office, patients receive guidance on selecting the right compression level and style for their unique condition.

The Limits of Compression Therapy

While compression stockings are helpful for managing symptoms and slowing progression, they do not correct the underlying cause of varicose veins or venous insufficiency. For patients with significant reflux or visible varicosities, office-based treatments such as radiofrequency ablation or foam sclerotherapy may be necessary for long-term results.

In-Office Evaluation and Next Steps

If you experience leg swelling, heaviness, or visible veins, Dr. Vasquez offers same-day vascular ultrasound at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana. This noninvasive test identifies circulation issues and helps determine whether compression alone is sufficient—or if additional treatment is needed.

Take control of your vein health today. Call 812-336-6008 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez in Bloomington, Indiana. Get expert recommendations on compression therapy and learn about the full range of treatment options to keep your legs healthy, comfortable, and active.

10/31/2025

Skin Changes and Vein Disease: Early Warning Signs

Changes in the skin are often one of the earliest—and most overlooked—signs of developing vein disease. While varicose veins and swelling are common symptoms, subtle skin changes can signal that blood is not circulating properly and that the condition may be progressing. At the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana, Dr. Ricardo Vasquez, a board-certified vascular surgeon with more than 20 years of experience treating veins and peripheral artery disease, evaluates these symptoms early to prevent complications. Dr. Vasquez and Monroe Hospital were recognized as a Top 50 Vascular Surgery Hospital in the Nation by Healthgrades in 2024—the only hospital in Indiana with this distinction.

Why Skin Changes Matter

When the valves in the veins of your legs weaken, blood can pool in the lower legs instead of circulating back to the heart. Over time, this increased pressure causes inflammation and damage to the skin and tissues. Recognizing these warning signs early is key to preventing advanced vein disease and complications like infection or leg ulcers.

Common Skin Changes Linked to Vein Disease

1. Dry, Itchy Skin (Venous Eczema)
Often appearing around the lower leg or ankle, this irritation occurs due to inflammation and reduced circulation. It may resemble dermatitis and is frequently mistaken for a skin condition rather than a vascular issue.

2. Skin Discoloration
Brown, reddish, or purplish changes—especially around the ankles—can occur when blood leaks out of weakened veins into surrounding tissue. This is a sign of chronic venous insufficiency and requires prompt evaluation.

3. Thinning or Shiny Skin
Skin over the lower leg may begin to look tight, thin, or shiny due to chronic swelling and tissue changes.

4. Hardening or Thickening of the Skin (Lipodermatosclerosis)
This tightening of the skin and underlying fat signals worsening vein disease and can cause the leg to become painful and tender.

5. Non-Healing Sores or Ulcers
Venous ulcers often form near the ankle and can be slow to heal without proper treatment. They are one of the most serious complications of untreated vein disease.

If you notice these symptoms, do not ignore them—early medical evaluation can prevent long-term tissue damage.

How We Diagnose and Treat

At our Bloomington office, Dr. Vasquez performs same-day, in-office vascular ultrasound exams to determine whether vein disease is causing your skin changes. This immediate diagnostic approach avoids hospital delays and prevents unnecessary costs.

Treatment options may include:

- Compression therapy

- Minimally invasive vein procedures performed in-office

- Lifestyle and skincare guidance to improve circulation and protect the skin

Addressing vein issues early helps restore circulation, reduce symptoms, and prevent skin deterioration.

When to Seek Care

If you experience skin changes, swelling, or discomfort in your legs, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. You do not need a referral to see a vascular specialist. Call 812-336-6008 to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Ricardo Vasquez at the Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana. Early diagnosis and treatment can protect your skin, health, and quality of life.

Address

815 W Second Street
Bloomington, IN
47403

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm

Telephone

+18123366008

Website

https://vascularcenterandveinclinic.com/

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