When Should You See a Vascular Surgeon?

Many people live with leg symptoms for years, assuming they are just part of getting older. But persistent aching, swelling, or visible veins can be signs of an underlying vascular problem that benefits from specialist assessment.

Signs to look out for

• Persistent aching or heaviness — Legs that feel heavy, tired, or achy by the end of the day, especially after standing or sitting for long periods.
• Visible varicose veins — Bulging, twisted veins beneath the skin that may be getting larger over time.
• Swelling around the ankles — Swelling that worsens throughout the day and improves overnight.
• Skin changes — Discolouration, dryness, itching, or hardening of the skin around the lower leg or ankle.
• Night cramps — Frequent cramping in the calves, particularly at night.
• Slow-healing wounds — Cuts or sores on the lower leg that take longer than expected to heal.
• Bleeding from a vein — Even minor trauma to a varicose vein can cause significant bleeding that needs attention.

Why early assessment matters

Left untreated, varicose veins can progress. What starts as mild aching can develop into skin changes, venous eczema, or in some cases, venous ulcers. Early assessment with a duplex ultrasound scan can identify the problem, and many treatments are straightforward walk-in, walk-out procedures.

What happens at your first appointment

A consultation with Mr Sidloff typically includes a clinical examination and a duplex ultrasound scan on the same visit. This scan maps the veins in your legs and identifies exactly where any valve failure is occurring. Based on the findings, a personalised treatment plan is discussed with you — whether that involves radiofrequency ablation, foam sclerotherapy, avulsions, or simply reassurance that no treatment is needed.

You do not always need a GP referral

While many patients are referred by their GP, you can also contact the clinic directly to arrange a consultation. A free five-minute telephone consultation is available if you would like to discuss your symptoms before booking.