When you arrange your appointment, the Clinic’s office support team will explain the procedure and confirm what information you may need to bring with you.
If this is your first visit to the Clinic, the Consultant will interview you and make notes of your medical history. This will include details of any previous vascular treatments or surgical procedures you have undergone as well as reviewing your general state of health; so please come prepared and bring any medical records you have that you feel may be appropriate as well as the name of your General Practitioner (GP).
You will receive a physical examination including a Doppler ultrasound scan (a machine which allows the doctor to track the veins and identify abnormal areas).
If we feel that no further specialised investigations are needed, treatment may start at the first visit. If this is the case we will explain the procedures involved and how we propose to carry out this course of treatment with you.
About vein disorders
Veins are the blood vessels that return blood to the heart from the body. To overcome the force of gravity, inside the veins are one-way valves which open to allow blood flow to the heart, and close to prevent “reflux” of blood to the body. When these valves fail to function or if the vein is damaged so the valves do not completely close, blood can begin to pool in the vein and cause a variety of vein complications.
What are the different types of vein disorders ?
Spider veins are small, thread-like coloured veins that are most often seen on the surface of the skin. Whilst most people seek treatment for spider veins for cosmetic reasons, spider veins also can result in mild discomfort.
Varicose veins are the large “rope-like” veins which are often ¼” or larger in diameter. Varicose veins generally grow in size over time and can result in substantial pain and complications if not treated.
How do I know if I have varicose or spider veins ?
Fortunately, the condition of most veins can be seen by looking at the size and colour of the vein at the skin surface. In some cases, however, the affected vein may be deeper in the body and not visible from the surface of the skin. As a result, paying close attention to other symptoms is important in diagnosing vein disease.
Many patients with vein disease experience cramping, aching, burning, itching, soreness or “tired” or “restless” legs, especially in the calf muscles. If you experience these symptoms, our Clinic or your Doctor can quickly and easily perform a test to determine if you have vein disorders.
How common are vein problems ?
Whilst there is a higher incidence of vein disorders in women than men, vein ailments are widespread amongst the whole population; varicose veins affect between 15-25% of all adults, and approximately 50% of all people over age 50 experience some form of vein ailment.
Why do vein disorders occur?
The single most important cause of vein disorders is genetic. Approximately 70% of all sufferers with varicose veins have parents or other family members with the same condition. Other factors that can contribute to vein disorders are pregnancy, especially multiple pregnancies, old age, obesity and jobs that require long periods of standing or sitting.
What can happen if varicose veins aren’t treated?
Varicose veins generally worsen over time. Often this is a gradual process but, if left untreated, they can lead to restrictions with mobility and severe aching of the legs in the evening and during the night. Eventually, varicose veins can lead to eczema, blood clot formation and in extreme cases skin ulceration.