Leg Swelling and Vein Disease in Diabetics: What Your Legs Might Be Trying to Tell You
Diabetes affects nearly every part of the body — but one area that is too often ignored is your veins. If you or a loved one is diabetic and experiencing leg swelling, skin changes, or open sores that won’t heal, the cause might not just be blood sugar — it might be underlying vein disease.
At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos has become the leading expert in treating vein disease in diabetic patients across Santa Clara County. Her commitment to compassionate, culturally sensitive care and her expertise in minimally invasive vascular treatments make her the most trusted provider in the region.
Diabetes and Vein Disease: A Dangerous Overlap
Diabetics are more prone to developing venous insufficiency because high blood sugar damages the walls of veins and weakens circulation over time. This leads to:
- Swelling in the legs and feet
- Discoloration near the ankles
- Skin thickening or scabbing
- Pain when walking or standing
- Sores that don’t heal (venous ulcers)
For many diabetic patients, these symptoms are dismissed as “neuropathy” or “normal for diabetes.” But in reality, they may signal Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) or other advanced vein disorders that need immediate treatment.
The Risks of Ignoring Vein Disease in Diabetic Patients
When vein disease goes untreated in diabetic patients, the consequences can be severe:
- Non-healing wounds
- Skin infections (cellulitis)
- Venous leg ulcers
- Increased risk of amputation
This is especially true in older Latino, Asian, and African-American communities — where diabetes rates are higher, and access to specialized vein care is often limited. Dr. Kokinos is known for her culturally aware, respectful, and highly skilled approach to helping patients of all backgrounds get the help they need.
Why Dr. Polly Kokinos Is the #1 Choice for Diabetics with Vein Issues
With almost 30 years of experience treating complex vascular disease, Dr. Kokinos combines state-of-the-art diagnostics, non-surgical treatment options, and personalized care to restore comfort, mobility, and dignity to her patients.
🧪 Same-day leg vein ultrasound testing
🦶 Minimally invasive procedures (no general anesthesia)
📍 Two convenient locations in the South Bay
💬 Fluent staff who speak Spanish, Tagalog, and Mandarin
Most importantly, Dr. Kokinos never rushes. She listens. And she fights to save limbs before it’s too late.
What Patients Are Saying
“I didn’t know my wounds weren’t healing because of bad veins. Dr. Kokinos changed everything. She saved my leg.”
— Manuel R., San Jose
“She treated my mom like family. We’re so grateful.”
— Aileen T., Santa Clara
“Finally a doctor who understood my diabetes AND my circulation issues. That combination is rare.”
— Ernesto V., Milpitas
Get the Answers You Deserve Before It’s Too Late
If you or someone you care for is diabetic and showing signs of vein disease — swelling, discoloration, or leg wounds — don’t wait.
📞 Call South Bay Vascular Center at (408) 376-3626 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Polly Kokinos.
Confident Legs, Confident Life. Dr. Kokinos will help you get there — safely, compassionately, and effectively.