Chronic venous insufficiency, or CVI, encompasses several ongoing health conditions affecting the veins in the lower extremities. Chronic venous insufficiency features a number of symptoms related to risk factors and causes that have a cumulative impact over time. In this blog, you will learn more about CVI and how some simple lifestyle changes can help you have healthier, more functional veins.
The Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
If you have or are developing chronic venous insufficiency, you may be experiencing some of the following concerning symptoms:
- Varicose veins, which are bluish, rope-like blood vessels that bulge through the skin in the legs, rectum, and other areas of the lower body
- Cramping and muscular spasms in the legs
- Throbbing and burning in the legs
- Swelling and edema in your feet, legs, and ankles, particularly toward the end of the day if you have been sitting or standing for prolonged periods
- A feeling of heaviness or aching in the lower limbs
- Restless leg syndrome (RLS), a feeling of needing to move your legs almost constantly
- Skin changes, such as a leathery texture and dark, reddish color
- Dry skin and itchy dermatitis
- Leg ulcers
Causes of CVI
Mostly, CVI originates in veins deep in your legs. These veins contain tiny, one-way valves which regulate blood flow to the heart.
When these valves become weak or damaged, they allow blood to pool and flow backward, causing increased pressure in the veins. The higher pressure and blood stagnation leads to varicose veins and other symptoms associated with chronic venous insufficiency.
If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Chronic venous insufficiency can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Examples of CVI complications are leg ulcers, blood clots, and skin infections.
The Risk Factors for Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Risk factors for developing this condition include:
- Genetics (the condition runs in families)
- Advancing age
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Sedentary lifestyle
- History of hypertension or heart disease
- History of blood clots
- Previous leg injuries, such as fractures
Proper recognition and management of these risk factors with the help of a trained vein specialist can prevent or delay the onset of chronic venous insufficiency. People often ignore the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, thinking that what they are experiencing is simple aging. However, you should know that CVI is not inevitable as we age.
Even if you do develop symptoms, chronic venous insufficiency can be managed so you avoid complications such as leg ulcers and life-threatening blood clots. Your vein specialist can treat unsightly varicose veins, too, giving back a measure of youthfulness to your appearance.
Lifestyle Changes to Avoid or Manage CVI
One of the best ways to avoid or manage CVI is to keep a healthy weight. If you are currently overweight, ask your primary care physician about monitored ways to lose excess body weight. As you trim down, you will relieve the pressure on your lower legs and their associated blood vessels.
It also helps to keep moving, so it is recommended to begin a program of regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. If you have a desk job or must stand in one place for long periods of time, take movement breaks as often as possible. Any movement promotes healthy blood circulation and avoids unhealthy blood pooling in the legs.
Additionally, quit smoking. Cigarettes damage microcirculation and deprive blood vessels of healthy oxygen and nutrients.
Finally, elevate your legs as much as you can—particularly in the evening hours. Elevation helps the veins return blood to the heart. You can also wear compression stockings to promote good circulation and reduce swelling in the lower extremities.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency Treatment in Boca Raton, FL
At Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute, our board-certified interventional cardiologists, Drs. Levine, and Schechter, help people experience the best possible vascular health. They offer the latest chronic venous insufficiency treatments and educate patients on the signs and symptoms of vascular disease.
Contact us today to learn more about chronic venous insufficiency. Call us at (561) 235-5621 or request your visit to Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute here. We are conveniently located across from Boca Regional Hospital. We look forward to speaking with you!
