You may think your varicose veins are nothing more than a cosmetic problem, but there may be factors inside the vessels that are impacting the appearance of those veins and the overall health of your vascular system. A varicose vein screening, using state-of-the-art technology, is the only way to determine possible damage to the vessels. There are a number of reasons why a screening should be the first step before any varicose vein treatment is considered.

Non-Invasive Procedure
Varicose vein screening is commonly performed through a procedure known as duplex ultrasound. Harmless sound waves are used to create an image of the vessels and evaluate the blood flow through them. This procedure does not require any special preparation and involves no discomfort, anesthesia or downtime. The wealth of knowledge that can be gained by this procedure makes it worthwhile for nearly any patient suffering from both the appearance and symptoms of varicose veins.

Detect Underlying Condition
Varicose veins are often caused by a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency or CVI. This condition occurs when tiny valves inside the vessels wear out or become damaged over time. The damage allows blood to pool in the veins of the lower legs, leading to vein swelling and varicosity. A vein screening can detect CVI and help your physician determine the best type of treatment for your condition.

Assess for DVT
Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is commonly seen in patients with visible varicose veins. This condition is characterized by the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein of the body, usually in the leg. DVT often does not have any symptoms, but it can become very dangerous if the blood clot breaks free from its original location and travels to the lungs. This can lead to a life-threatening event known as a pulmonary embolism. Treating DVT in its early stage will help reduce the risk for serious complications later on.

Pinpoint the Source of the Varicose Veins
If you are interested in treating your varicose veins, an ultrasound screening will help your physician detect the underlying source of the condition. By treating the correct vessels, you are more likely to see positive results from your vein treatment that will be long-lasting. Ultrasound can also be used during vein treatment to guide a needle or catheter directly into an underlying vessel requiring treatment.

Varicose veins are often a sign of a more serious condition that can worsen if it is not treated properly. Varicose vein screening can give us an accurate idea of why your bulging veins developed and guide us in choosing the best treatment option for your specific needs. To learn more, contact Incredible Veins Skin & Body at 818-446-2995.