Chronic Venous Insufficiency and Vascular Disease

Chronic venous insufficiency or “CVI” is a condition in which the backward flow of blood within the veins or venous reflux can lead to tissue damage, inflammation or venous hypertension. This condition is serious, often requiring vascular surgery, and can prevent proper blood flow from reaching the heart. Often this vascular disease will begin with the failure of the valves within the veins and become worse if not treated. Blood that is flowing backward away from the heart will begin to pool within the veins causing extra pressure and venous hypertension, often within the legs. Venous hypertension makes circulation within the leg much more difficult which can lead to inflammation as well as tissue acidosis, slowly weakening the valves and vein walls.

Those suffering from chronic venous insufficiency will notice symptoms including cramping in the legs, tiredness, heaviness or a burning or itching sensation. Chronic venous insufficiency will also cause the ankle or leg to swell, and the surrounding skin may become hardened.

Those suffering from CVI will also likely feel self-conscious about their condition, as the undesirable changes in skin tone and texture are become more evident on the legs and around the ankles. However, it’s not simply the cosmetic effects that should be of concern to those with Chronic Venous Insufficiency as these can lead to an even more serious vascular disease if it goes untreated by a vascular surgeon. When left untreated, CVI can cause problems similar to congestive heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, both of which are serious complications and pose a significant threat to the patient’s health.

Leg ulcers are another likely complication associated with CVI with 10% of patients who develop these leg ulcers becoming disabled by them. Some patients may experience bleeding of their spider veins or varicose veins which can be a very serious complication and superficial thrombophlebitis is a common risk factor of untreated CVI.

How to Treat Your CVI

Patients who are experiencing chronic venous insufficiency should seek a vascular surgeon as early as possible to prevent further complications. There are many effective treatments available to those who are suffering from CVI that can help to significantly alleviate discomfort while also preventing more serious developments. A vein specialist who performs procedures intended to help cure and alleviate CVI should be seen as soon as possible.

Fortunately, at the Skin and Vein Center, we can give you all the attention you need to make certain this vascular disease is treated correctly. Call today to get your consultation and see what avenues are available to you! And, if you’re interested in our other cosmetic procedures, let us know; we will get you what you desire!