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What to Expect at the Vein Doctor

If you are suffering from varicose veins or spider veins, you are not alone. Varicose veins and spider veins are quite common. For many people they pose no real medical problems, however an entire specialty has evolved among doctors who treat vein problems.

If you decide to seek medical care from a vascular doctor or vein doctor for your varicose veins or spider veins, be prepared for a thorough examination of your varicose veins.

The doctor will examine your legs while you are standing and while you are seated. The vein doctor wants to determine the severity of the swelling in the varicose vein. The vein doctor will also ask you to describe any symptoms, such as itchiness, pain, numbness or heaviness in the legs. If the vein doctor suspects the presence of blood clots, an ultrasound may be prescribed.

In some cases the vein doctor may simply suggest the use of compression hose; other patients may require treatments such as sclerotherapy or ablations. Regardless of the specific outcomes, being evaluated by a vascular specialist or vein doctor is a first step in treating varicose veins and spider veins.

Sclerosing Solutions

Sclerotherapy using a sclerosing solution is the most common treatment option for spider veins. Sclerotherapy with a sclerosing solution is also sometimes an option for the treatment of true varicose veins.

According to Mosby’s Medical Dictionary, sclerosing solution is defined as “a liquid containing an irritant that causes inflammation and resulting fibrosis of tissues. It may be used in cauterizing ulcers, arresting hemorrhage, and treating hemangiomas.

One of the most frequently used solutions is saline based. This treatment for varicose veins and spider veins is popular because there is minimal risk of allergy to the solution.

Ask your vein doctor or vascular medical specialist for more information about the type of vein treatments that would be right for your varicose veins or spider veins.