Conditions

Venous Insufficiency

Varicose and spider veins can cause discomfort and cosmetic concerns

What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Your veins are built to return blood back to your heart, fighting against gravity with the help of tiny one-way valves. In CVI, these valves weaken or get damaged, causing blood to pool in your legs instead of flowing efficiently upward. This backward flow, known as venous reflux, increases pressure in your veins—leading to swelling, skin changes, and varicose veins.

Think of it like traffic congestion in your leg veins—where the natural flow gets backed up, causing damage over time.

Why Does CVI Happen?

CVI doesn’t appear overnight. It's usually the result of several overlapping factors that compromise vein function:

• Aging – Vein walls lose elasticity over time.
• Family History – Genetics play a big role in vein health.
• Pregnancy – Hormonal shifts and increased abdominal pressure strain the leg veins.
• Obesity – Extra weight compresses and burdens your veins.
• Prolonged Sitting or Standing – Especially in office workers, teachers, and frequent travelers.
• History of Blood Clots – Previous Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can irreversibly damage your valves.

Recognizing the Signs: Is It More Than Just Tired Legs?

CVI often announces itself with symptoms that many brush off:

• Swelling in the ankles and calves, especially by day’s end
• Aching, heaviness, or throbbing legs, particularly after standing
• Visible varicose veins
• Skin discoloration or itching near the ankles
• Restless legs at night
• Leg cramps, particularly when lying down
• Slow-healing wounds or ulcers near the ankles

These are not just cosmetic or aging concerns—they signal poor circulation that needs medical attention.

How I Diagnose CVI: A Specialist’s Approach

At our clinic, we combine clinical expertise with state-of-the-art diagnostics to get to the root of your symptoms. During your visit, I will:

• Carefully examine your legs for varicose veins, skin changes, and ulcers
• Review your medical and family history
• Assess lifestyle factors like standing duration, travel, and mobility

Then, we use non-invasive vascular imaging to confirm the diagnosis:

• Doppler Ultrasound – To check blood flow and valve function
• Duplex Ultrasound – Offers detailed images of vein anatomy and blood flow direction
• Venous Reflux Studies – To detect the extent of backward flow
• Advanced Imaging (e.g., MRV or CTV) – In complex or recurrent cases

Treatment: Restoring Circulation, Relieving Symptoms

While CVI can’t be "cured," it can absolutely be managed—and many patients experience life-changing relief once treated. Your plan will be fully personalized and may include:

• Medical-Grade Compression Stockings – A daily must to help reduce swelling and assist circulation.
• Lifestyle Adjustments – Elevating your legs, daily walking, weight management, and hydration.
• Medications – Diuretics for swelling, vasodilators to improve blood flow, and anticoagulants if clot risk is high.
• Ablative Therapies – Laser or radiofrequency treatments that seal off damaged veins and redirect flow.
• Sclerotherapy – A chemical injection that safely closes small varicose veins.
• Vein Stripping or Ligation – In more advanced cases, surgical removal or closure may be advised.
• Wound Care – For those with skin ulcers, we provide targeted care using specialized dressings and compression.

Empowering You to Take Control

Living with CVI doesn't have to mean enduring discomfort or hiding your legs. With early detection and the right care, you can regain comfort, prevent complications, and enjoy greater mobility.

Simple daily steps that make a difference:

✅ Elevate your legs whenever possible

✅ Walk at least 30 minutes a day

✅ Maintain a healthy weight

✅ Avoid prolonged sitting or standing

✅ Moisturize your skin daily

✅ Wear your compression stockings as prescribed

Let’s Help Your Legs Feel Lighter, Stronger, and Healthier

I believe that listening to your body—especially your legs—is the first step to reclaiming your vitality. If you’re noticing changes in your veins, swelling, or discomfort, don’t wait.