Vein Diagnosis

Patients with vein problems are advised to have a consultation with a phlebologist (vein specialist).  At the consultation your phlebologist will take a full history including the date of onset of the problem, any exacerbating features eg pregnancy or a job that involves prolonged standing.  Any symptoms associated with the vein problem will be elicited and any previous treatment that you may have had to your veins.

A general medical history is taken to document any associated illnesses that may be relevant to treatment and all medications are listed.  Any allergies to medication are noted and a family history of vein problems or clotting disorders are noted.

A full examination of the problem is then carried out and this will usually include photographs.  If the problem is varicose veins or spider veins in the legs or a vascular malformation your phlebologist will order a Duplex ultrasound (this includes a doppler) to create a roadmap of your veins.  Because what you see on the surface of your legs is generally only the tip of the iceberg, we need to assess the full venous system with ultrasound.  This is normally performed at the phlebologists rooms by an experienced vascular sonographer.