Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic Venous Insufficiency - Symptoms, Risks, Treatment

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) occurs when the veins of the leg can’t work efficiently, which limits blood flow back to the heart. It is caused by problems in the venous wall and/or the leg valves, where blood can leak, pool, and slow down. More than 200,000 people are diagnosed with this condition in the U.S. every year. It can be a painful condition and is chronic, meaning it lasts for years or can be lifelong. With help from a vascular specialist, you can cope with CVI and carefully manage your condition.

Symptoms Of Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Symptoms of CVI can worsen and become more disabling as the disease progresses over time. These symptoms will not go away on their own and should be discussed with a doctor as soon as possible. See a vascular specialist if you have symptoms like:

  • Newly-formed varicose veins
  • Aching or a tired feeling in your lower legs
  • Swelling in the lower legs and ankles
  • Swelling and aching in the legs after periods of standing
  • Leathery, flaking, or itching skin on the legs
  • Ulcers on the legs

The symptoms of CVI come from the pressure and swelling that results from the underlying condition. Left untreated, CVI can cause related problems like cellulitis, internal tissue damage, venous stasis ulcers, and can even contribute to the development of major life-threatening circulatory problems.

the feet of a patient suffering from Chronic Veinous Insufficiency - Maryland Vascular Specialists