Definition

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is when the veins and valves in the legs do not work as they should. This can cause a backup of blood in the veins, especially in the legs.

Venous Insufficiency Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

In some people, the cause is not known. In others, damage to the valves causes problems in the veins. Common causes of this are:

• An increase in blood pressure in the veins
• Structural problems
• Health problems such as:
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Phlebitis
  • Blood clots

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people who have DVT. Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Family members with the same problems
• Smoking
• Pregnancy

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Leg swelling
• Pain in the legs, especially after walking:
  • Aching
  • Dullness
  • Tiredness
  • Cramping
• Red or brown darkening of the skin on the legs
• Enlarged veins
• Leg sores, especially around the inside of the ankles
• Scaling skin on the legs
• Hard, leathery skin on the legs

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam may be done. This may be enough to suspect the diagnosis.

Images of the veins may be taken. This can be done with an ultrasound. This can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The goal of care is to maintain blood flow and prevent it from pooling in the veins. Choices are:

• Compression stockings to keep blood from pooling in the legs
• Regular exercise
• Procedures to reroute blood flow, such as:
  • Sclerotherapy
  • Ablation

People who are not helped by these methods may need surgery. The type of surgery will depend on the cause.

Prevention

To lower the risk of this problem:

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid smoking.