Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

Understanding Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

 

What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a medical condition where the veins in the legs are not able to carry blood back to the heart properly. This can cause blood to pool in the legs, leading to swelling, pain, and other complications. CVI may present as mild symptoms initially, but if it left treated over time, the condition can negatively affect your quality of life and lead to serious complications to your overall health.

Causes of Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency is primarily caused by the damage or malfunction of the valves in the veins of the legs. These valves are responsible for ensuring that blood flows in the right direction, towards the heart. When they become damaged, blood can flow backward and pool in the veins, leading to CVI. Some of the common risk factors of the condition include:

  • Obesity

  • Pregnancy

  • Family history of venous disease

  • Lack of physical activity

  • Standing or sitting for prolonged periods

  • Prior leg injuries or surgeries

Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency

The symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

  • Swelling in the legs or ankles

  • Pain or discomfort in the legs

  • Varicose veins

  • Itching or tingling in the legs

  • Skin discoloration or ulcers

  • Restless legs syndrome

Diagnosing Chronic Venous Insufficiency

A doctor can diagnose chronic venous insufficiency through a physical exam, blood test, and a review of the patient's medical history. Other tests that your doctor may perform to conduct a diagnosis include:

  • Ultrasound: An ultrasound can be used to look at the blood flow in the legs and identify any blockages or blood clots.

  • Venography: A type of X-ray that can be used to look at the blood flow in the veins.

Treatment Options for Chronic Venous Insufficiency

The treatment of chronic venous insufficiency will depend on the severity of the condition. Some common traditional treatment options include:

  • Compression stockings or bandages: These help to improve blood flow in the legs and reduce swelling.

  • Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing can help to improve blood flow in the legs.

  • Medications: Medications such as diuretics, anticoagulants, and anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of CVI.

However, if those treatment options do not improve the symptoms of the condition, your doctor may recommend minimally invasive procedures such as:

  • Endovenous thermal ablation: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser or radiofrequency waves to seal off damaged veins.

  • Sclerotherapy: This involves injecting a solution into the damaged vein, which causes it to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body.

Treating Chronic Venous Insufficiency at Indiana Vascular

Chronic venous insufficiency is a common condition that affects the veins in the legs. It can lead to a range of painful symptoms and health complications, but there are many treatment options available to help you manage and treat the condition.

At Indiana Vascular, we offer a facility filled with state-of-the-art equipment and staff of experienced doctors that specialize in treating chronic venous insufficiency. We will collaborate with you in developing a treatment plan tailored to your individualized needs, and will accompany you every step of the way to ensure a favorable outcome and swift recovery.

Do not allow chronic venous insufficiency to negatively impact your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with us today to receive a consultation and gain insight into the condition, as well as discover how we can enhance your overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • While some risk factors for CVI, such as family history, cannot be changed, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help reduce the risk of developing the condition.

  • Chronic venous insufficiency can cause significant discomfort and lead to complications such as skin ulcers if left untreated. However, with proper management, most individuals with the condition can lead a normal life.

  • Treatment options for chronic venous insufficiency depend on the severity of the condition, but it may include compression stockings, medications, lifestyle changes, or minimally invasive such as endovenous thermal ablation and sclerotherapy.

  • While there is no cure for chronic venous insufficiency, proper management can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

Are You Suffering From Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

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