Diagnosis & Evaluation of Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins is a quite common medical condition identified as twisted veins mostly in legs. Discolored thin small veins in form of lines/web normally referred as spider veins also is symptom of vascular issue.
Varicose veins is normally not fatal in itself. Indian medical environment is mostly event oriented, and a passive medical condition is ignored. However, a timely evaluation of any medical condition may save development of issues in more serious condition.
Evaluation
Varicose Veins is initially evaluated with a physical examination. Doctor shall inspect the veins of the patient while the patient is standing to check for any visible signs or any swelling. Patients shall be asked for any symptoms like pain, aching, itch experienced by the patient.
It is important to have a protocol-based examination to have full evaluation. The protocol should be benchmarked against the best practices globally.
At Endovascular Clinic we follow gold standard protocol to evaluate all parameters and confirm the actual varicose veins issue & ensure no issue is overlooked. Our Diagnostic protocol involves:
– Detailed duplex ultrasound of lower limbs by senior interventional radiologist himself.
– Every vein in each leg including the normally overlooked perforator veins is evaluated.
– Pelvic Congestion Syndrome evaluation for pregnant ladies.
– Additional test warranted by patient condition & co-morbidities.
Why various tests?
It should be well recognized that the bulging, discolored veins are not the problem but are mere symptoms of an underlying and more serious condition of malfunctioning of vein vascular structure including valves which need to be treated on a priority basis.
To understand the underlying issue proper tests are required to be done by experts like an interventional radiologist. These advanced but economical tests help ensure the cause of the symptoms and rule out any other condition which may be causing the symptoms.
- Duplex Ultrasound: This combines traditional ultrasound with Doppler ultrasound to provide detailed images of the veins and blood flow.
Duplex ultrasound is like a window into your vein health. It is an advanced imaging technology which relates traditional ultrasound with Doppler capabilities, this allows doctors to visualize blood flow within your veins with extraordinary precision. It is a non-invasive and painless test which is done on an outpatient basis.
- Venous Doppler Ultrasound: Another non-invasive test which makes use of sound waves to create images of the veins and evaluate blood flow. It thus helps identify any blood clots and evaluate the function of the valves in the veins.
- Venogram: This is a Xray procedure involving injecting a contrast dye into the veins and taking X-rays to picture the veins and detect any irregularities.
Which Doctors to See
If you experience symptoms, it is important to see the right expert because it is equally important to know when to start the treatment for varicose veins. Medical specialists which you can consult:
- An interventional radiologist, who specializes in using imaging tools to see inside the body and do treatments with little or no cutting.
- In some countries a phlebologist who is a vein specialist is the doctor one should visit however the expertise is not separately identified in Indian medical system and is clubbed with super specialty of interventional radiology.
- A vascular medicine doctor, who focuses on the system of blood flow.
As per guidelines by National Institute for Health & Care Excellence, United Kingdom also an interventional radiologist should be the primary doctor to evaluate and treat any varicose vein issue.
Importance of Proper Evaluation and Treatment
Proper evaluation and timely treatment of varicose veins are essential to prevent complications and improve the patient’s quality of life. Treatment options range from conservative measures, such as compression stockings and lifestyle changes, to medical and surgical interventions. Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall well-being.
In conclusion, varicose veins are a common condition that requires proper evaluation and diagnosis by a qualified specialist. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to serious complications, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical attention and following the recommended treatment plan. By addressing varicose veins early, patients can achieve better outcomes and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable life.
