Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Learn about chronic venous insufficiency, including its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options to improve leg health and prevent complications.
What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition where the veins in the legs are unable to effectively return blood to the heart. This dysfunction results in blood pooling in the lower extremities, commonly causing swelling around the feet and ankles. Patients may experience symptoms such as leg heaviness, achiness, tingling sensations, and visible varicose veins. In severe cases, CVI can lead to the development of leg ulcers or sores that are challenging to heal.
Causes of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
CVI occurs when the valves within leg veins, responsible for directing blood flow towards the heart, become damaged or weakened. This damage impairs proper blood circulation, especially during prolonged standing or sitting, where gravity makes the task more difficult. Risk factors that can contribute to CVI include blood clots, inflammation of the veins (phlebitis), and being overweight, which adds extra pressure on leg veins.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing CVI requires healthcare professionals to differentiate it from other causes of leg swelling, such as heart, kidney, or blood clot issues. Venous ultrasound is a primary diagnostic tool to assess vein function and confirm CVI.
Treatment strategies focus on alleviating symptoms and preventing progression. Common approaches include wearing compression stockings to improve blood flow, elevating the legs to reduce swelling, and maintaining a healthy weight. Regular physical activities like walking help strengthen the leg muscles, which support effective venous function. For more advanced cases, medications or procedures such as vein ablation or sclerotherapy may be recommended by healthcare providers.
Addressing CVI is vital for improving quality of life and preventing complications such as ulcers. If experiencing persistent leg swelling or discomfort, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for proper diagnosis and tailored treatment.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-chronic-venous-insufficiency.html
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