Diagnosis - Varicose eczema

See your GP if you have symptoms of varicose eczema. They'll often be able to make a diagnosis by looking at the skin.

Seeing your GP

Your GP will try to find out if you have a problem with the flow of blood in your leg veins. This is the main cause of varicose eczema.

They may want to know if you have a history of:

• varicose veins – swollen and enlarged veins
• deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – a blood clot in one of the deep veins of your legs
• surgery or injury to your legs

Your GP may also check the pulse in your feet. This is to see if compression stockings are suitable for you.

Referral to a specialist

Your GP may refer you to a specialist for further tests.

This could be a:

• vascular specialist – a doctor or surgeon specialising in blood vessels
• dermatologist – a specialist in skin conditions

Your GP will refer you to a specialist if:

• you have varicose veins and changes to your skin. This includes varicose eczema or a history of leg ulcers
• you have very poor blood flow in the blood vessels in your legs
• they are concerned about pulses in your feet
• your symptoms do not get better, despite treatment
• it's possible you have contact dermatitis