Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is a widespread condition, though not many know much about it. It occurs when veins in your body do not work in a proper way, and therefore blood cannot travel back to your heart. Blood in your legs is stored over time, causing swelling, pain, and skin changes.
Let us discuss what CVI is, why it happens, what to watch for, and how to take care of it.
What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
CVI is a chronic condition that occurs when the veins in your legs are unable to return blood to your heart. Normally, one-way valves in your veins prevent blood from flowing downwards. However, if the valves are weak or compromised, blood can flow the opposite direction and accumulate in your legs.
When the blood is not flowing properly, it increases the pressure. This causes swelling, pain, and other complications.
What Produces CVI?
A number of causes can lead to the onset of chronic venous insufficiency:
Varicose veins: Dilated, distorted veins caused by faulty valves are the main risk factor
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A deep vein clot can destroy the valves permanently
Obesity: Excess weight is too much for leg veins
Pregnancy: Changes in blood pressure and hormonal fluctuations can cause vein wall thinning
Sitting or standing for a prolonged time: This reduces blood flow
Age and gender: It occurs more frequently in older and women
General Symptoms of CVI
CVI symptoms typically start slowly and progress over time. Some of the signs to look out for are:
Swelling of the lower legs or ankles, particularly after prolonged standing
Pain, throbbing, or a feeling of heaviness in the legs
Visible varicose veins
Skin thickening or discoloration, typically around the ankles
Dry or flaky skin on the legs
Leg cramps especially at night
Slow-healing wounds or ulcers on the ankles or legs
How is CVI Diagnosed?
If you have symptoms of CVI, your physician will begin by performing a physical examination and checking your symptoms. They may also employ a duplex ultrasound, a nonpainful procedure that employs sound waves to examine the way blood travels through your leg veins.
Early detection of issues will avoid problems like sores, skin infections, and loss of leg tissue.
Treatment Options for CVI
The fortunate thing is that CVI can typically be well controlled, particularly if it is found early. Treatment typically works to enhance circulation and reduce pressure in the veins.
1. Lifestyle Changes
Exercise daily: Walking keeps the blood circulating
Lift your legs: Elevate your legs above your heart level a few times a day
Have a healthy weight: It decreases pressure on your veins
Don’t stand or sit for extended periods: Break to move around
2. Compression Socks
These are specialized socks that exert pressure on your legs to push the blood upward. They can really reduce swelling and discomfort.
3. Medicines
Doctors can also give you medication such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs to help reduce swelling and enhance circulation.
4. Minimally Invasive Procedures
For more severe cases, your physician may prescribe:
Sclerotherapy: A solution is injected into varicose veins to close them off
Laser or radiofrequency ablation employs heat to seal injured veins
Surgery or vein stripping: Uncommon, but occasionally needed in very severe cases
May CVI Be Prevented?
Although you may not be able to prevent CVI completely, you can reduce your risk by:
Being physically active
Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes
Not sitting with your legs crossed
Taking regular breaks if you work standing or sitting for extended periods
Avoiding tight clothing around your waist and legs
When Do You Go to a Doctor?
If your legs tend to swell, you notice varicose veins, or you experience increased pain after standing for extended periods, it’s advisable to consult a medical professional. The sooner you get treated, the simpler it is to manage the issue and avoid complications in the long run.
FAQs on Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Q1. Is CVI and varicose vein synonymous?
A: No. Varicose veins are typically a sign of CVI, whereas CVI is a more general issue that affects blood flow through your leg veins and potentially causes more severe issues.
Q2. Is CVI harmful to health?
CVI is not typically life-threatening, but if left untreated, the condition can lead to sensitive blisters, infection, and skin scarring. Early treatment is extremely important.
Q3. Do I need to exercise even if I have CVI?
A: Yes, certainly. Light exercise and walking are healthy for you because blood circulation in your legs is encouraged.
Q4. Do I require surgery for CVI?
A: Most do not require surgery. Changes in lifestyle, stockings, and less severe treatments are typically sufficient. Surgery is only performed in severe cases.
Q5. Can CVI go away on its own?
A: No, CVI is a persistent condition, so it will not resolve itself. But with proper treatment and adjustments to your lifestyle, symptoms can become a lot better.
Last Thoughts
Chronic Venous Insufficiency may be a nuisance but may be managed with proper care. Do not ignore swelling, pain in the legs, or varicose veins — they may be more than cosmetic issues. If you know you have the condition and do something about it early, you can keep your legs healthy and enhance your life.