Doctors Notes
Dr. Cindy Asbjornsen
Knowledge is power: Trusted Sources For Vein Information
I
t’s a common misconception that there is not a lot one can do, or should do, about symptoms like heavy, achy legs or unsightly veins. The fact is, vein disorder, or venous disease, is one of the most common health conditions affecting Americans. Approximately half of the U.S. population has some form of it, ranging from spider veins and varicose veins, to leg ulcers, while some people will have no visible signs of the disease. If someone has symptoms of vein disease, the first step, aside from addressing it with a primary care physician, is to become informed. Learning about vein disease and the latest modalities of treatment can help a patient be his or her best health advocate. When researching on the Web, visit trusted sites that specialize in phlebology (the study of vein disease and vein healthcare), such as
the American College of Phlebology (
www.phlebology.org) and the American Venous Forum (
www.veinforum.org). The Vein Healthcare Center website also provides reliable information for both patients and physicians (
www.veinhealthcare.com). More and more, patients are turning to their computers (and mobile devices) to gather information about health-related topics. But
if you prefer reading books to screens, there are a number of publications that can help people make informed decisions about their leg health and overall wellness. Published by the American College of Phlebology (ACP), Healthy Veins…Healthy Legs was written by estab- lished vein specialists around the country. The book gives patients a comprehensive look at vein disease, plus practical tips for prevention and management. (I contributed a chapter about risk factors and other causes for vein problems.) Many Vein Healthcare Center patients turn to Understanding Venous Disease to learn more, which provides an overview of venous disease, including complications and the latest procedures. It also discusses alternative and conservative treatments. Another consumer- friendly book is Say Goodbye to Varicose Veins & Spider Veins Now! by Dr. Greg Martin, a phlebologist (vein specialist) in Georgia. The book is written in a very accessible style that’s easy to understand. For health professionals, the third (and latest) edition of Fundamentals of Phlebology: Venous Disease for Clinicians is soon to come out. It is considered “the Bible” for phlebologists and other allied healthcare professionals who incorporate venous disease treatment in their practices.
Gathering information is important, but one shouldn’t worry needlessly because of too many visits to the library or WebMD! To learn
more about vein disease, and options for treatment, visit a physician certified by the American Board of Phlebology (ABPh). While many may practice vein care, a board certified doctor meets the ABPh’s high standard and has the knowledge, skills, and experience to provide quality patient care.
Dr. Cindy Asbjornsen is the founder of the Vein Healthcare Center in South Portland, Maine. Certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, she cares for all levels of venous disease, including spider veins, varicose veins and venous ulcers. Dr. Asbjornsen is the only vein specialist in Maine to be named a Fellow by the American College of Phlebology. You can contact Dr. Asbjornsen at 207- 221-7799 or
info@veinhealthcare.com. See ad on page 7.
8 Essential Living Maine ~ February 2015 Digital Edition
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