Is Vaping Harming Your Veins?

The Cardiovascular System

The arteries carry the blood from the heart to all region of the body. Since the heart pumps the blood through the arteries, they are a part of the high-pressure system.

The vein is a blood vessel that returns the blood to various areas of the body to the heart. Unlike the arteries, the veins are a part of the low-pressure system, and they rely on muscles contraction to move the blood to the heart.

The veins must work against gravity to return blood to the heart from your arms and legs. Because of the low low-pressure system of the vein, the vein is more susceptible to blood clots.

There are many causes of blood clots. Some of them include injury, obesity, smoking and now vaping. Vaping is the process of inhaling and exhaling an aerosol, which is referred to as vapor. E-cigarettes or other devices produce vapor.

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes are devices that battery-powered, and they disperse chemical and nicotine. The dispersion becomes airborne so that users can exhale and inhale the vapor. E-cigarettes induce behavioral aspects similar to smoking, such as hand-to-mouth action without tobacco.

E-cigarettes or vaping device contains a mouthpiece, battery, heating element, and a cartridge. The heating element is battery-powered.

The battery warms the heating element, which in turn heats the liquid contents into an aerosol that is inhaled and then exhaled.

The cartridge is filled with liquid solutions called e-juice or e-liquids. Some of the liquids include glycol, propylene, nicotine, additives, other chemicals, other metals and flavorings, but not tobacco.

THC, which is a marijuana mind-altering effect chemical and Flakka, which is a synthetic drug, is sometimes used in the vaping devices instead of nicotine.

The Vaping effects on the Vein

Nicotine is a chemical substance that contains nitrogen. It is toxic, highly addictive, and it is the primary agent in both e-cigarette and regular cigarettes. Nicotine is made from a variety of plants, and it can also be produced synthetically.

Nicotine can cause you to crave smoke. If you ignore the cravings, the withdrawal symptoms can boost your adrenaline, raise your blood pressure and increase your heart rate.

Studies have shown the effects of vaping on the DNA and Lungs.

Mouses in the study show that brief exposure to the device’s vapors can hurt your blood vessels.

Studies also show vaping damaged blood vessels. When the vessels are damaged or injured, it can cause them to fail to widen and dilate. These types of injury can increase the risk of having a heart disease.

Research Studies on Vaping

University of Pennsylvania researcher conducted a study that showed that vaping affects the vein. Participants in the study had their thigh cuffed to restrict the flow of blood in the veins and femoral artery.

When the cuffs were removed, blood flow within minutes resumes its normal flow. The blood flowed quickly to offset for the lack of nutrient and oxygen in the body by speeding up the blood flow.

However, after the participant vape, the blood vessels did not widen to accept the inflow of blood. The blood vessels dilated, the flow of blood decreased by a little over 25 percent, and oxygenated blood decreased by approximately 20 percent. The study showed, on average, a decrease of 34 percent dilation before they inhaled the vapor.

A prior study showed when glycerol, propylene and glycol are heated, the fusion of the chemicals can send a poisonous response to the lining of the blood vessel or endothelium.

The Results of Vaping

Whenever the blood flow in the veins is reduced, the restricted flow can cause a pooled of blood that can form veins that are varicose and expand the walls of the blood vessels.

Smoking effects on the cardiovascular system is documented well. Nicotine and carbon monoxide restrict blood flow in the arteries and the veins, which can lead to plugged arteries. Now, current studies are showing that vaping can also damage or injure the veins, even without the use of nicotine.

Yes. Vaping is harmful to your veins and they can leave you with spider and varicose veins. Spider veins and varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issues. You can have them removed from centers around such as Vein Clinic Miami.

Schedule an appointment with Vein Expert Dr Susan Fox at Fox Vein & Laser Experts in Miami to learn more about how vaping is harmful to your veins can be effectively treated. Contact us today to book your appointment.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): What You Need to Know

February 27, 2025

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As a division of Vivid Vascular, Fox Vein & Laser Experts provides advanced vascular care and education on conditions like PAD to help our patients take control of their vascular health.

What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

PAD is a circulatory condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly affecting the legs. This reduced circulation can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and even serious complications if left untreated.

Signs & Symptoms of PAD

Many individuals with PAD don’t experience symptoms until the disease has progressed. However, common signs include: Leg pain or cramping while walking, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs or feet, slow-healing wounds or ulcers on the legs and feet, coldness in the lower leg or foot, skin discoloration or hair loss on the legs, weak or absent pulses in the legs

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek evaluation from a vascular specialist.

What Causes PAD?

PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. Common risk factors include:

Smoking Diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
Family history of vascular disease

Why PAD Awareness is Important

Left untreated, PAD can lead to severe complications, including non-healing wounds, infections, and even limb amputation. Furthermore, PAD is a warning sign of serious cardiovascular issues, such as heart attacks and strokes. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing these life-threatening complications.

How is PAD Diagnosed?

At Fox Vein & Laser Experts, a division of Vivid Vascular, we use advanced diagnostic tools to detect PAD, including:

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): A simple test comparing blood pressure in the arms and legs.
Ultrasound Imaging: Helps assess blood flow and locate blockages.

Treatment Options for PAD

The good news is that PAD is treatable! Treatment plans are tailored to the severity of the disease and may include:

Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, regular exercise, and a heart-healthy diet can improve circulation.
Medications: Blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medications to improve blood flow.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Atherectomy: Removes plaque buildup from the arteries.
- Angioplasty & Stenting: Uses a small balloon to widen the artery and a stent to keep it open.

Why Choose Fox Vein & Laser Experts for PAD Treatment?

As part of Vivid Vascular, our team offers expert vascular care with cutting-edge technology in a comfortable, boutique-style setting. Our minimally invasive treatments provide effective relief with quicker recovery times and minimal downtime.

Schedule Your PAD Consultation Today! If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of PAD, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and improve your quality of life. Contact Fox Vein & Laser Experts today to schedule a comprehensive vascular screening and take control of your vascular health!

Fox Vein & Laser Experts | A Division of Vivid Vascular Call us at 305-957-7277

Visit us at www.foxveinexperts.com

Veins

Top Benefits of Choosing VeinGogh Treatment in Miami, FL

June 29, 2024

If you’re living in Miami and in search of a safe and effective solution for unsightly and uncomfortable spider veins, VeinGogh treatment may be just the right treatment you’ve been looking for.

This innovative procedure offers a variety of benefits, providing a quick, safe, and reliable way to eliminate small spider veins on your face, legs, feet, or anywhere else on the body they may be present.

VeinGogh vein treatment is a cutting-edge method used specifically to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. The procedure uses Ohmic Thermolysis technology, which delivers microbursts of high-frequency energy directly to the vein, causing the vessel walls to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body.

This revolutionary technology is able to target spider veins with such precision that it avoids damaging the surrounding tissue or leaving scars on the skin. This makes it a much more preferred choice compared to other traditional vein treatment methods.

VeinGogh is minimally invasive and typically performed in a medical office. First, you’ll come into the office for a consultation with a vein specialist who will evaluate your medical history, as well as the current state of your veins to determine if VeinGogh is the right option for you.

Remember, not all veins are treatable with VeinGogh. A patient who is suffering from larger varicose veins or feeder veins may not be a candidate for the procedure. This will all be discussed during the initial consultation.

On the day of the treatment, the targeted area will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to ensure your comfort. The procedure involves a frequency regulator called Microburst Technology, which is delivered to the affected veins. These bursts are incredibly short — only a fraction of a second. The veins will shrink and eventually disappear, and blood is then rerouted to healthy veins.

Because of how quick and precise the bursts of energy are, it is a more comfortable experience, safe for all skin types, and there is largely decreased risk for visible scars. The process only takes around 30 minutes, depending on the size and number of veins being treated.

After the treatment, you may experience minor redness or swelling in the treated area, but these side effects are usually temporary. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal activities immediately.

VeinGogh Treatment is an excellent option for many individuals, but it’s particularly beneficial for those who have small, superficial veins; are looking for a minimally invasive solution; have tried other spider vein treatments without seeing any success, and are in generally good health. Patients who have certain significant underlying conditions could experience complications during the procedure.

Choosing this particular option for spider vein treatment has numerous advantages. Some of the benefits of VeinGogh include:

1. Precision and Control: VeinGogh allows for precise targeting of veins, ensuring effective treatment with minimal impact on surrounding tissues.

2. Quick and Convenient: The procedure is very quick, typically taking only around a half hour to an hour, depending on the size of the area. It requires no downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately.

3. Minimal Discomfort: The treatment is virtually painless, with most patients experiencing only minor discomfort during the procedure. It’s a much more comfortable procedure when compared to other traditional methods.

4. Effective Results: VeinGogh effectively eliminates spider veins and small varicose veins, providing visible results after just one session. It also provides flexibility to treat other types of skin imperfections such as rosacea cherry angiomas.

5. Safe for All Skin Types: Unlike some laser treatments, VeinGogh is safe for all skin types and tones, making it a versatile option for a diverse range of patients.

6. No Scarring: The precision of the VeinGogh system ensures that there is no scarring or significant skin damage, preserving the aesthetics of the treated area.

7. Long-Lasting Effects: Results from VeinGogh are long-lasting, especially when supplemented with a healthy lifestyle and proper vein care post-treatment. After treatment, patients continue to see improvement over time as the veins are absorbed and removed by the body.

VeinGogh is safe and effective when done on its own, but it can also be used in conjunction with Sclerotherapy for even better results. Sclerotherapy is another treatment used for spider vein removal that uses injections with medication in liquid or foam form. Just as with VeinGogh, it’s a very quick procedure that provides optimal results.

South Florida is home to top-notch medical facilities and specialists, so if you are looking for VeinGogh treatment in Miami, you have come to the right place. The expert team at Fox Vein & Laser Experts have several years of experience providing patients with successful VeinGogh procedures, as well as numerous other vein treatments.

If you are struggling with small spider veins and seeking a safe, effective solution, consider all of the benefits of VeinGogh treatment. With its precision and effectiveness, minimal discomfort, and long-lasting results, VeinGogh offers an ideal option for treating spider veins and small varicose veins. Contact our office at 954-627-1045 for a consultation or book an appointment online.

Skin Rejuvenation

Prepping for Your Skin Rejuvenation Treatment: What You Need to Know

June 28, 2024

We all want radiant and youthful skin, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by adding a skin rejuvenation treatment series into our routine.

There are a variety of treatments that can be considered skin rejuvenating. Laser procedures are safe and effective for treating more serious skin concerns. These devices work by targeting specific skin concerns such as pigmentation, wrinkles, and scars by stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the skin.

For laser skin rejuvenation in Miami at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, we offer PicoWay® Resolve, which is a fractional laser treatment that utilizes the shortest wavelength of laser energy available on the market today.

It is safe for all skin types and shades. Due to the energy being delivered in such short bursts, the skin never heats up too much. That results in a much more comfortable experience for the patient, with optimal results and no need for extended downtime.

Additional options to rejuvenate the skin include microneedling, facials and chemical peels. Microneedling involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. These injuries trigger the skin’s natural healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production, which improves skin texture and firmness.

Facial treatments range from basic facials to more advanced ones like chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Facials aim to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin, while advanced treatments target specific concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging.

The secret to maximizing the benefits of these treatments, however, lies in proper skin preparation.

Preparing your skin before any rejuvenating skin treatment ensures optimal results, minimizes risks, and promotes faster healing. Here are some basic things you should know about prepping your skin for a rejuvenation treatment:

Consultation and Assessment: Before undergoing any skin rejuvenation treatment, a thorough consultation with a qualified skincare specialist is essential. They will assess your skin type, concerns, and medical history to recommend the most suitable treatment and preparation steps.

Avoid Sun Exposure: This is incredibly important. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications during and after a treatment. For at least two weeks prior to your appointment, avoid excessive sun exposure and always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you have a sunburn, we recommend rescheduling your treatment.

Discontinue Certain Medications and Products: Some medications and skin care products can increase skin sensitivity. Inform your provider about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products. Typically, you will be advised to stop using retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and other exfoliants at least a week before treatment.

Hydrate and Moisturize: Your skin will respond better to the treatment and heal faster when it’s well hydrated. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment and use a good quality moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid using any new products that could potentially irritate your skin.

Cleanse Your Skin Thoroughly: On the day of your treatment, cleanse your skin thoroughly to ensure all makeup is gone, and any oils and impurities are cleared away. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser, and avoid scrubbing your skin. It’s important that your skin is clean and free of any barriers that could interfere with the treatment.

Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions: Each type of skin rejuvenation treatment may have specific pre-treatment instructions. During your initial consultation, our team will go over all of these instructions with you to make sure you are well-prepared for treatment day.

For laser treatments specifically, avoid photosensitizing agents. Certain skincare ingredients and medications can make your skin more sensitive to light. Avoid these for at least a week before your laser treatment.

For microneedling, you may want to consider numbing cream, especially if you are sensitive to pain. Microneedling can be uncomfortable on certain parts of the face and body. Numbing cream can be applied about 30 minutes prior to the treatment. If you think you may want to do this, make sure to account for that extra time when scheduling the appointment.

Proper post-treatment care is just as crucial as pre-treatment preparation. It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

After getting a skin rejuvenation treatment, you should:

Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 diligently.
Keep the treated area clean and moisturized.
Avoid strenuous activities that cause sweating for a few days.
Not pick or scratch the treated area to prevent scarring and infection.

Proper skin preparation is the foundation for a successful skin rejuvenation treatment. If you follow all the steps outlined above, as well as anything else that your provider suggests, you are more likely to achieve your skin goals. This also minimizes the risk of developing complications.

With the right preparation and care, you’re on your way to enjoying healthier, more radiant skin.

To schedule an appointment with our skin rejuvenation specialists at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, contact us at 954-627-1045 or book online.