Vein clinic visits can help spot chronic venous insufficiency
Posted: Saturday, June 21, 2014 | Revised: May 29, 2014
Vein clinic visits can help spot venous insufficiency
About 30 million men and women in the U.S. suffer from venous insufficiency, sometimes called chronic venous insufficiency or CVI, a condition that results when blood flow becomes impaired. The most common symptoms of CVI include the development of spider veins or varicose veins, but there are other symptoms that can occur as well – often before the visible symptoms of varicose veins. Understanding the causes of CVI as well as its earlier symptoms can help ensure you get the treatment you need before problems progress. Contact your local Vein Clinic for a consultation. But here’s what you need to know to stay healthy:
What causes chronic venous insufficiency?
CVI occurs when the blood vessels are unable to perform the normal, healthy functions that help keep blood flowing the way it should. When vessel walls become weak or the tiny valves inside the veins that prevent backflow of blood become damaged or being to malfunction, blood flow slows down, resulting in increased pressure on the vessel walls and additional damage to both vessel walls and valves. This can be caused by age, weight gain, a job that requires you to sit or stand for long periods of time, pregnancy, hormonal changes – even genetics.
What are the symptoms of CVI?
As noted, the most recognizable symptoms are varicose veins. But other signs which may be ignored or overlooked include:
- Swollen ankles, feet or legs
- Feelings of heaviness or tiredness in the feet or legs
- Aching, burning or itching in the feet, ankles or legs
- Leg or foot cramps
- Feelings of restlessness in the legs, most commonly occurring at night
While these symptoms may seem like nuisances that can be ignored, at least for a time, the fact is, CVI that is not promptly treated can result in painful varicose veins as well as skin sores that can be difficult to resolve. Over time, the discomfort can become so severe, you may find you’re unable to participate in many activities you enjoy.
What’s worse, some of these problems can be overlooked or misdiagnosed, resulting in delays in treatment and an exacerbation of the underlying problem. If you’re having any of these symptoms, the best way to know whether or not you’re suffering from CVI is to have regular screenings by a vein doctor. Vascular surgeons are skilled in identifying early symptoms of CVI and they can also order tests to determine how your veins are functioning.
Even if you aren’t having symptoms, getting screened is an important part of making sure you stay healthy, especially if someone in your family has had varicose veins. Getting started is easy: Just call our vein clinic today and schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns. We’re waiting to help you live a healthier life.