What Do We Check For?
During our free vein screening, we check for reflux, or venous insufficiency. In simpler terms, we examine the veins for improper blood flow within the superficial system.
Why Is A Vein Screening Important?
Often, people don’t even realize they have venous insufficiency (improper blood flow) that can lead to further complications, left untreated, because they don’t see a “varicose vein” that is bulging or ropey. Also, they may be symptomatic, but they don’t relate the symptoms of pain, tingling, numbness, itchy, tired, heavy, achy, swollen, restless type sensations to varicose vein disease. Our free vein screening will tell you whether or not it is a medical condition of varicose vein disease or if your symptoms might be related to something else. By having the vein screening, it is a process of elimination in determining why they may be symptomatic.
How Long Does it Take?
A vein screening normally only takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
What Is The Process Like?
An ultrasound tech will use an ultrasound machine and apply compression on certain areas of the leg. By doing this, if there is improper blood flow (venous insufficiency), the ultrasound machine will show by color.
Most Common Vein Problems
Varicose Veins
Healthy veins have a closed valve and blood flow only occurs in one direction. Varicose veins, however, allow for blood to flow in both directions. This causes a visible swelling of the veins, which can ultimately lead to achy, restless legs, burning or itching sensations, discoloration of the skin, and even open sores or ulcers on the lower legs.
Common Symptoms and Signs:
- Tired, heavy & achy leg(s)
- Restless leg(s)
- Burning & Itching
- Swelling of the leg(s) & feet
- Cramping of the leg(s) & feet
- Discoloration of the skin at ankle(s) & leg(s)
- Open sores or ulcers on the lower leg(s)
Spider Veins
Spider veins are small thin blood vessels that lie close to the surface of the skin. They usually appear on the legs, face, or chest, but they can also occur in other locations. They are red or blue and usually look like a spider web or tree branch. Spider veins can be purely a cosmetic concern, but sometimes they indicate an underlying condition.
Common Symptoms and Signs:
- Leg aching
- Leg heaviness
- Fatigue
- Burning
- Throbbing