Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

In a healthy circulatory system, the veins carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart against gravity, aided by muscle contractions and the one-way valves within the veins. These valves ensure that blood flows in the correct direction, towards the heart. However, when these valves become weak or damaged, blood can pool or flow backwards, leading to chronic venous insufficiency.

What are the Causes of Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

The veins in our legs are responsible for carrying blood back to the heart. To do this effectively, the veins have one-way valves that prevent the blood from flowing backwards. When these valves become damaged or weakened, they may not close properly, leading to the pooling of blood in the veins.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing CVI, including:

● Age: As we age, the valves in our veins may become weaker and less effective, increasing the risk of CVI.

● Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop CVI, possibly due to hormonal factors.

● Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the veins in the legs, leading to valve damage and CVI.

● Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to poor circulation and an increased risk of CVI.

● Pregnancy: The extra weight and pressure on the veins during pregnancy can lead to valve damage and CVI.

● Family history: There may be a genetic component to the development of CVI.

● Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots in the deep veins can impair valve function and damage the veins.

● Varicose veins: Enlarged and twisted veins can weaken the valves, leading to venous insufficiency.

● Leg injury or surgery: Trauma to the legs or surgical procedures can damage the veins and valves.

● Prolonged standing or sitting: Jobs or activities that involve long periods of standing or sitting can hinder blood flow.

What are the Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Lets understand the symptoms of CVI from our specialists at Aadicura Suerspeciality Hospital, considered as one of the best endovascular hospitals in Vadodara. The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. It is a common complaint of people with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI): The legs feel painful, cramped, and swollen. It’s very difficult to go about your day if you have these symptoms.

Some common symptoms include:

● Pain, cramping or aching in the legs, especially after standing or sitting for long periods of time

● Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

● Aching or heaviness in the legs

● Skin discolouration or texture changes

● Ulcers or open sores, particularly near the ankle

● Varicose veins

● Itching, tingling or burning sensations in the legs

● Restless leg syndrome

In severe cases, CVI can lead to skin breakdown and ulceration, which can be difficult to treat and may require medical intervention from an endovascular hospital in Vadodara.

What are the Treatment Options for Chronic Venous Insufficiency

The treatment options for CVI depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as losing weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing may be enough to alleviate symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. We at Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital, considered as one of the best vascular hospitals in Vadodara, provide necessary care and treatment to handle such problems. Some of our common treatment options include:

● Compression therapy: This involves wearing special stockings or wraps that provide gentle pressure to the legs, helping to improve circulation and reduce swelling.

● Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics or blood thinners, may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of CVI.

● Endovenous ablation: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat or laser energy to seal off damaged veins, redirecting blood flow to healthy veins.

● Sclerotherapy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a special solution into damaged veins, causing them to collapse and eventually be absorbed by the body.

● Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove damaged veins. In severe situations, ligation is employed as a treatment method. Ligation involves surgically tying off the affected vein to halt the flow of blood through it. In cases where the vein or its valves are significantly damaged, the vein may be completely removed, a procedure referred to as vein stripping.

How can we Prevent Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

While not all cases of CVI can be prevented, several steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the condition. These include:

● Maintaining a healthy weight

● Exercising regularly, especially activities that promote good circulation, such as walking or swimming

● Avoiding long periods of sitting or standing

● Elevating the legs whenever possible

● Wearing compression stockings if recommended by a healthcare provider

● Quitting smoking

Recognizing the symptoms and seeking medical attention from the best vascular surgery hospital in Vadodara is crucial and when it comes to seeking the best endovascular treatment, choosing the right hospital is crucial for optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction. In this regard, Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital has established itself as a trusted destination for individuals in need of top-notch endovascular care. With their highly skilled specialists, patient-centric approach, state-of-the-art facilities, and exceptional track record, patients can place their trust in Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital, knowing they are in capable hands throughout their endovascular treatment journey.