How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?

Doctors often diagnose varicose veins based on a physical exam alone. Sometimes tests or procedures are done to find out the extent of the problem and to rule out other disorders.

Specialists Involved

If you have varicose veins, you may see a vascular medicine specialist or vascular surgeon. These are doctors who specialize in blood vessel conditions. You also may see a dermatologist. This is a doctor who specializes in skin conditions.

Physical Exam

To check for varicose veins in your legs, your doctor will look at your legs while you're standing or sitting with your legs dangling. He or she may ask you about your signs and symptoms, including any pain you're having.

Diagnostic Tests and Procedures

Doppler Ultrasound

Your doctor may recommend a Doppler ultrasound to check blood flow in your veins and to look for blood clots. A Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of structures in your body.

During this test, a handheld device will be placed on your body and passed back and forth over the affected area. A computer will convert the sound waves into a picture of the blood flow in your arteries and veins.

Angiogram

Although rare, your doctor may order an angiogram to get a more detailed look at the blood flow through your blood vessels. For this procedure, dye is injected into your veins. The dye outlines your veins on x-ray images.

An angiogram can help your doctor confirm whether you have varicose veins or another problem.