• Symptoms

• Physical examination

• Ultrasound scan is done to map the superficial veins.  As incompetence of different veins can present with similar appearance, ultrasound scan will identify the source of the varicosities.  It will also rule out blockage in the deep veins which is an essential requirement before treating the superficial veins.  Ultrasound scan will also detect duplicate veins which would be missed otherwise.  The examination is done in the standing position and usually requires leg compression by the technician’s hand

Reflux of blood within a vein and not its size is what determines abnormality