How Varicose Veins are Diagnosed
Varicose veins are a common medical condition that affects millions of people around the world. They can cause pain, swelling, and discoloration in the affected area. Left untreated, varicose veins can lead to more serious health issues such as blood clots or ulcers. Fortunately, varicose veins can be diagnosed and treated by a vein doctor so they don’t get worse over time. In this article, we'll look at how your varicose veins are diagnosed.
What are varicose veins and why is it important to get them diagnosed?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that appear most commonly on the legs. Although they are often thought of as a cosmetic problem, they can also be a serious medical condition, so it’s important to get varicose veins diagnosed by an experienced vein doctor. Varicose veins can cause pain, swelling, skin changes, and even leg ulcers if left untreated for too long. Knowing what varicose veins are and how they should be treated is the first step in getting them under control.
Varicose Veins Explained
Varicose veins occur when valves inside of our veins become weak or damaged. This damage can occur due to various factors, including age, genetics, obesity, pregnancy, or lifestyle habits like sitting or standing for extended periods (which increases pressure on the venous system). When these valves don't close properly anymore, some of the blood flowing through them will build up in the legs instead of being returned to the heart. This pooling of blood in the legs can lead to bulging veins, pain, swelling, and heaviness. Other signs and symptoms can include itching, leg cramps, tired legs, discoloration, and hardening of the skin in the lower legs. These symptoms are often worse at the end of the day or after prolonged sitting/standing.
The diagnostic process
One of the most crucial tools for diagnosing varicose veins is the duplex ultrasound exam, which may be performed during your initial consultation with a vein specialist. A sonographer who specializes in veins will perform an ultrasound study of both of your legs, looking closely at veins in the deep system and the superficial system. The ultrasound exam can reveal if you have any blood clots or other obstructions in your veins. The sonographer is also checking your veins for reflux, the “backwards” blood flow that causes the symptoms of varicose veins and venous insufficiency.
After your ultrasound, the doctor reviews the results and discusses them with you. Your vein doctor will also ask questions about your symptoms and your health history, including a family history, and perform a physical exam. Other components of your initial evaluation may include taking photos or measurements of your legs.
Your vein specialist will take into account your ultrasound results, your physical exam findings, and your reported symptoms when discussing the best treatment options for you. Often, an initial trial of conservative therapy, including medical-grade compression stockings, is recommended. After trying conservative measures, many patients will still need to proceed with definitive treatment, such as laser ablation or injection sclerotherapy. These treatments work by closing the varicose veins, leading to improved circulation and symptomatic relief.
Closing Thoughts
Varicose veins can cause pain, swelling, and other symptoms that affect your quality of life, in addition to more serious conditions such as skin ulcers. A vein doctor will be able to assess the severity of varicose veins and recommend the best course of treatment for you. With help and support from your vein specialist, varicose veins can be managed successfully and any associated complications can be minimized or avoided altogether. Please contact us if you have any questions about your varicose veins or how to get a diagnosis.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us to set up a consultation appointment.