The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic has resulted in elective surgeries and interventions in hospitals being postponed in many countries around the world, including here in Australia, to divert those resources to managing the pandemic. However, the treatment of venous disease is important and must not be overlooked.
At Paras Clinic – Vein Health Medical we are still available, during Covid-19 stage-4 restrictions, for advice regarding the diagnosis and management of any issues relating to venous disease. We can be contacted by phone on +61 3 9662 1863, our trained staff will be able to assist you with any enquiry you may have. Telehealth appointments are available with Dr Peter Paraskevas and in certain circumstances where Dr Paraskevas is unable to provide the appropriate advice over the phone, a consultation in the clinic may be an option. In such circumstances, strict protocols are in place to comply with the current COVID 19 safety regulations put in place by Vic Health.
Left untreated, severe venous disease can cause progressively worse and more painful symptoms which can inhibit mobility or lead to complications such as swelling, phlebitis, cellulitis, venous ulceration, or thrombophlebitis. An individual should not wait until the symptoms worsen before they seek medical attention.
A consensus paper to assist in triage (assessment of whether treatment is urgent or not) of venous and lymphatic conditions during this worldwide pandemic, was published recently by the International Union of Phlebology. “Triage of patients with venous and lymphatic diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic” will help clinicians decide which patients will require immediate treatment, and which can wait.
It is important to have vein disease assessed and treated if necessary, even during the COVID-19 pandemic to avoid escalating symptoms. Let our phlebologist assess if your treatment is urgent or not, rather than leaving painful symptoms to go unrelieved during the pandemic.
Key Takeaways
- Vein Health (part of Paras Clinic) continues to run as normal during the COVID-19 pandemic, complying with all COVID-19 guidelines and requirements.
- Read the paper “Triage of patients with venous and lymphatic diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic”.