General Information About Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the malfunction of the one-way valves inside the veins that carry dirty blood in the legs upwards (to the heart) against gravity, allowing blood to leak backward and creating pressure in the leg.
Genetic predisposition is the biggest cause. Aging, excess weight, pregnancy, professions requiring constant standing or sitting still, and past deep vein thrombosis (DVT) damage the valves.
A feeling of heaviness and pain in the legs increasing by the end of the day, swelling in the ankles (edema), purple/red capillary cracking on the skin, brown color changes on the skin, and night cramps.
High pressure within the vein damages the subcutaneous tissue over time and impairs its nourishment. In the advanced stage, deep, unhealing, and draining open wounds (venous ulcers) usually form on the inner side of the ankle.
Following the examination by a Cardiovascular Surgery physician, the vessel diameters and how much blood leaks backward (reflux duration) are measured in millimeters using a Venous Color Doppler Ultrasonography taken while standing.
In the early stages, varicose vein stockings (compression), resting with the legs elevated, and medical treatment are applied. In the advanced stages, the defective vein is closed from the inside non-surgically using laser, radiofrequency, or medical foam/glue, directing the blood to healthy veins.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
