How to Diagnose Vein Problem
Examine and Evaluation
Chronic vein disease is a spectrum of illness that extends all the way from spider veins to large venous ulcerations and it can range from asymptomatic to disabling. When the vein disease develops into large ulcers, it takes no time for us to diagnose the causes and come up with a treatment plan. However, for the earlier stage, we would need to do some additional examination to learn about the patient’s condition and to plan out effectively how to limit the patient’s disease progression.
History and Physical Exam
The most common method we use is to analyze the history and physical exam of the patient. Most of the time patients mistake vein issues with cosmetic problems, and they are unaware of the early symptoms for vein problems. Our physicians would specifically ask about their symptoms including heaviness, aching, throbbing, tiredness, burning, itching, tingling, and cramping to identify any association and potential risks. Restless Leg Syndrom (RLS) is another often unrecognized (even by physicians) symptom that is associated with chronic vein disease. Studies suggest that between 50-80% of patients with RLS have some component of venous insufficiency. Multiple episodes of phlebitis would strongly suggest that the patient would need further evaluation.
During the physical exam, the physician should look for unexplained edema, spider and varicose veins, skin changes such as lipodermatosclerosis, and ulcerations (both healed and active).
If patients have any of the above symptoms or findings on the exam, they can be referred to a Phlebologist (vein specialist) for a more formal evaluation. By doing so, a significant amount of morbidity and complications can be prevented.
Vein Treatment Clinic Near Me
We provide a complimentary free screening and an individualized treatment plan for every one of our patients. To schedule your free screening, call us at (888)-782-8346 or book online. For your convenience, we have 10 vein treatment centers across South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota.