Treatments for Vein Conditions
While rare, varicose veins could indicate a critical blockage in deeper veins, a condition called deep vein thrombosis, which can be life threatening. As a result, proper medical evaluation and treatment of varicose veins is important. Because chronic venous insufficiency is a progressive disease, symptoms will often worsen if left untreated.
The evaluation includes a visual and physical examination of the legs and feet by a physician, who checks for inflammation, areas that are tender to the touch, changes in skin color, ulcerations and other signs of skin breakdown. In most cases an ultrasound test is ordered to determine if the valves in the veins are functioning properly and to check for evidence of a blood clot.