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.

The Truth About Vein Treatment—And Why Women Choose Dr. Polly Kokinos

Confident Legs. Confident Life. (SM)

In a world where image, confidence, and credibility matter, professional women understand the subtle yet powerful toll that varicose veins can take—not just on appearance, but on how you move, feel, and present yourself. You’ve worked too hard to settle for discomfort or cosmetic cover-ups. You deserve results.

At South Bay Vascular Center, Dr. Polly Kokinos has made it her mission for over 30 years to help women reclaim their strength and presence by delivering flawless outcomes through true vascular expertise. When it comes to your legs, you only get one chance to choose the right surgeon. Here’s what you need to know—before you book that first appointment.


What Most Patients Don’t Know—But Should

Varicose vein treatment has exploded in popularity. But here’s what’s rarely discussed:

Many so-called “vein specialists” are not vascular surgeons. In fact, they often hold board certifications in:

  • Pain management
  • Internal medicine
  • Anesthesiology

And they may have only recently started offering vein treatments to boost revenue—not because they spent a career dedicated to vascular health.

A full board certification in vascular surgery requires rigorous training in both arterial and venous disease—not just a weekend course.

Dr. Kokinos is a fellowship-trained, board-certified vascular surgeon, and the only woman in the region with this depth of experience and precision.


Real Reviews. Real Results.

“Dr. Kokinos is a godsend. After years of painful legs and failed treatments, she knew exactly what to do. She listened and cared.”
Sandra B., Morgan Hill

“I went to a fancy vein clinic first, but something felt off. I’m glad I waited. Dr. Kokinos did everything in one appointment—and the results were stunning.”
Lisa D., Gilroy

“She blends medical brilliance with artistry. I feel like I have new legs.”
Nina R., Los Gatos


How These Procedures Are Really Done (And Billed)

At some offices, treatment is split into multiple appointments—not for clinical reasons, but to bill insurance more than once. Some doctors use outdated methods or perform procedures in non-accredited settings.

Dr. Kokinos performs all vein procedures:

  • In a state-of-the-art, accredited outpatient center
  • In one complete session whenever clinically appropriate
  • With a transparent explanation of billing, insurance coverage, and follow-up

What to Expect from Treatment

Modern varicose vein treatment is:

  • Minimally invasive
  • Office-based (no hospital visit)
  • Quick recovery with little to no downtime

Options include:

  • Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
  • Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Each option is designed to restore both circulatory health and cosmetic beauty. And with Dr. Kokinos, that blend of form and function is delivered with expert care.


Why Women Choose Dr. Kokinos for their Vein Care

  • Independent Practice – No quotas. No corporate upsells.
  • The Touch of a Woman – Empathy, precision, and understanding.
  • 30+ Years of Excellence – Real surgical experience and stunning results.

Call today to schedule your Vein Consulation. 408-376-3626

“We Offer Hope When Others Say There Is None”