Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) happens when the veins in your legs just don’t push blood back up to your heart the way they should. Blood starts to pool down there. That’s when you get swelling, aching, weird skin changes, and sometimes wounds that just won’t heal.
Catch CVI early, and modern treatments can keep things from getting worse.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
CVI sticks around. The valves in your leg veins (the little flaps that keep blood moving up, not down) get weak or damaged. When that happens, blood leaks backward, collects in the veins, and pressure builds up. That’s when you start noticing symptoms.
CVI usually sneaks up on you. It’s often tied to varicose veins, but not always. Some people never see big bulging veins but still have the problem.
Why Does CVI Happen?
There’s no single reason. Most of the time, it’s either too much pressure on your veins over the years or those vein valves just give out.
Common Reasons
- Weak or faulty vein valves
- Past deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Sitting or standing still for prolonged duration
- Getting older
- Being overweight
- Pregnancy
- Family history of vein issues
- Not moving enough
Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
You will probably notice symptoms get worse by the end of the day. Propping your legs up helps
- Legs that stay swollen
- Heavy or achy feeling in your legs
- Tired or restless legs
- Varicose veins
- Skin around your ankles or calves changing color
- Dry or itchy skin
- Skin that feels thick or hard
- Wounds near your ankle that just won’t heal
Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency Serious?
Absolutely! If you ignore CVI, things can spiral. You could end up with constant pain, trouble walking, skin that never really heals, or even blood clots.
Treating CVI early makes a huge difference. You’ll feel better and avoid bigger problems down the road.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Don’t wait it out if you notice:
- Swelling that won’t go away
- Skin changing color
- Sores that don’t heal
- Pain or tightness that’s getting worse
- Sudden changes in your symptoms
Talk to a vascular specialist immediately!
How Do Doctors Diagnose CVI?
It’s pretty straightforward and painless.
What to expect:
- A physical exam
- Doppler ultrasound to check:
- Which way your blood is flowing
- How your valves are working
- Any clots hiding in there
- How severe your reflux is
Treatment Options for CVI
1. Conservative Care
- Compression stockings
- Kick your feet up when you can
- Walk and move around regularly
- Lose extra weight
- Avoid sitting or standing for ages
2. Minimally Invasive Options
| Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) | Varithena Foam Sclerotherapy |
Once our vein specialist assesses your condition, they will suggest an appropriate treatment plan that works for you.
Recovery & Long-Term Care
- Most of these treatments don’t even require a hospital stay
- You can walk right after your procedure
- Keep using compression for best results
- Regular checkups help stop the problem from coming back
How to Stop CVI from Getting Worse
- Stay active. Move around when you can
- Avoid prolonged duration of sitting and standing
- Keep your weight in check
- Use compression stockings if your doctor says so
- Elevate your legs when you relax
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Here are some answers:
Is CVI curable?
You can’t always cure it, but you can control it with the right care and lifestyle changes.
Can CVI come back after treatment?
Stick with your treatment and follow-up appointments. Most people don’t see it return.
Will I need surgery?
Nope. Most people do great with less invasive procedures
Don’t brush off leg swelling or skin changes. The sooner you act, the better you will feel and avoid major trouble down the line. Book an appointment today!