Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition where the veins in the legs are not working properly. Normally, veins in the legs carry blood up toward the heart. With chronic venous insufficiency, the vein valves are not functioning properly, causing blood to pool in the legs.
Chronic venous insufficiency is a genetic condition. Here’s what you should know about CVI and its connection to varicose veins.
What Characterizes Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Ideally, the valves in your veins push blood flow toward your heart. For people with chronic venous insufficiency, this process does not happen as expected. Weakened or damaged valves cause blood to accumulate within the veins, which need to work harder to return blood to your heart.
Over time the vein walls stretch, causing visible varicose veins. Long term, the condition increases risk for varicose veins, pain, swelling, and ulcers.
Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
As blood begins to pool in your veins, you may notice a combination of:
- Cramping or pain in your legs
- Prominent varicose veins
- A tired, heavy, dull or achy feeling in your legs
- Occasional burning or tingling in your extremities
- Patches of reddish-brown or flaking skin
- Swelling around your ankles
- Leathery, shiny skin texture
- Open sores around your ankles
- Visible scar tissue around your ankles and lower legs
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing CVI starts with a vascular ultrasound and physical examination. At Vein Centers of Connecticut, we offer the most up-to-date technology for the treatment of venous insufficiency.
Schedule your consultation today to find out how we can help you.