A vascular ultrasound of lower limbs (Doppler ultrasound of legs) is an informative and safe method for diagnosing vascular abnormalities. The examination allows evaluating the veins and arteries (their walls, lumen width), blood flow velocity and detect blood clots and inflammation.

Ultrasound exams do not expose you to radiation and have no contraindications. They can be done repeatedly in the amount necessary for diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

A vascular ultrasound of the lower and upper limbs

The arms and legs handle the greater part of the loads throughout life. So it is not surprising that pain, cramps, swelling or numbness appear with age. It is better to get a vascular ultrasound of legs and arms and not to wait until pain starts to affect your daily life. If you experience the above-mentioned symptoms, an experienced specialist will immediately do a Doppler ultrasound.

Ultrasound is the most affordable and effective method to examine and evaluate the arteries and veins. It provides complete information about the blood flow, blood clots, aneurysms, narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels and other disorders or abnormalities. The examination is performed using modern equipment that provides high quality images. They can be enlarged to see any abnormalities and, as a result, diagnose a wide range of cardiovascular diseases. The main conclusion that a specialist makes based on the results of an ultrasound examination is the compliance of scans with the age norm.

A vascular ultrasound of the upper limbs: indications and features of the procedure

The procedure is performed in the most comfortable conditions and is not painful or uncomfortable. Before the procedure, a doctor applies a special gel to the skin to make it easier to read the data. The indications for this examination include the following: various arms injuries, prevention of vascular diseases at early stages, preparation for scheduled surgeries or other invasive procedures.

You shoul get a vascular ultrasound of the upper limbs if the following symptoms are observed:

• significant redness, swelling or pain in certain areas;
• any discomfort: tingling, numbness, cramps;
• excessive weakness of the upper limbs despite minor/absent loads;
• visible enlarged lymph nodes, lumps

Thanks to modern diagnostic equipment, it is possible to make an accurate diagnosis and detect stenosis, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, various vascular lesions, inflammation and development of neoplasms. A doctor is also able to localize the affected area and take timely measures to improve the patient’s health.

 A vascular ultrasound of the lower limbs: advantages of examination

The lower limbs are a matter of concern for a lot of people. Not only older people are at risk, but also professional athletes and high heels lovers. A vascular ultrasound of the lower limbs is done in the following cases:

• heaviness and pain after exercise or a long walk;
• extreme leg fatigue for no apparent reason;
• itching, increased sensitivity of the skin, cramps, numbness, change in skin colour;
• cold feet all the time.

A vascular ultrasound of the lower limbs is also indicated for patients who have recently suffered a stroke, have diabetes, have bad habits and do not maintain a healthy lifestyle. These categories of people should be screened on a regular basis, as the risk of dangerous conditions increases significantly. Timely diagnosis makes it possible to detect at early stages the development of various complications such as varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, thrombosis, atherosclerosis, etc. and undergo treatment in time.

What preparation is needed for the ultrasound of the limbs?

The main advantage of ultrasound is the absence of contraindications. It can be performed at any age. The only restriction is the altered skin integrity: wounds, cuts, ulcers or other injuries. In such cases, the procedure is rescheduled until the injuries heal.

No special preparation is required. It is recommended to notify your doctor in advance about undergoing a medical treatment. In this case, a decision is made to temporarily terminate the treatment course or delay the procedure. Other recommendations include: 

• do not drink alcohol 2 days before the procedure;
• avoid foods and drinks that can affect the cardiovascular system, i.e. increase pulse rate or increase blood flow: energy drinks, strong coffee and tea, chocolate, etc. 1 day before the procedure;
• do not smoke 2-3 hours before the procedure.

You can get the ultrasound of the limbs in Lviv in Berehynia Medical Center. You will find here attentive health professionals and modern high precision equipment. The duration of the procedure is about 30 minutes, then the specialist will examine the results obtained, based on which appropriate conclusion will be drawn, the diagnosis will be made and the optimal treatment regimen will be created.