Raising Awareness of Leg Venous Diseases during Leg Matters Week

Clare Kendrick, the vascular ward manager at Glan Clwyd Hospital, is leading a national awareness week called “Leg Matters” from June 10th-14th to raise awareness of lower leg venous diseases. The week is dedicated to educating healthcare staff and patients on the importance of early diagnosis and management of circulatory conditions affecting the lower limbs. The campaign is particularly urgent as untreated venous diseases can lead to severe complications, such as leg ulcers that refuse to heal, lower limb amputations, and other negative outcomes.

The Importance of Early Treatment

Clare emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of venous disease, such as spider veins, varicose veins, and leg oedema. Early treatment can prevent the progression of these conditions, which, if left unchecked, can lead to significant skin changes and painful ulcers. “It really matters to us,” Clare stated. “We get some patients arriving too late when they have a problem. If people were more aware of how to deal with issues earlier, they may not lose limbs and may not lose their quality of life.”

Educating the Public

As part of the “Leg Matters” week initiative, an information stand will be set up at Glan Clwyd Hospital, providing resources and advice on preventing and managing venous diseases. The community will be made more aware of the early signs of these conditions to facilitate prompt and effective treatment. “Many people come to us when they have a big problem, but there are usually many signs before it gets to a critical point,” Clare added. “We want to make people aware of what they are, as early intervention is vital. Prevention, by people changing their lifestyles where possible, is even better.”

Training and Courses

In addition to community education, the “Leg Matters” week includes training sessions for nurses on compression bandaging and access to additional courses on lower limb care. Clare is organizing additional training for her team on lower limb care and specialized wound dressing to further support this initiative.

Conclusion

“Leg Matters” week is an essential campaign to raise awareness of the early signs of venous disease and the importance of early treatment to prevent severe complications. By educating healthcare staff and patients and providing information and resources, Clare Kendrick and her team hope to make a meaningful difference in preventing the progression of these conditions and improving patients’ quality of life.

For more information on “Leg Matters” week and how to recognize the signs of venous diseases, visit the Legs Matter website.

Originally Post From https://www.deeside.com/betsi-cadwaladr-leg-matters-week-aims-to-combat-lower-limb-venous-diseases/

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