Chronic venous insufficiency develops when veins in your legs struggle to pump blood back to your heart effectively. This condition occurs when the one-way valves in your veins become damaged or weakened, allowing blood to pool in your lower extremities. The result is a range of uncomfortable symptoms that affect daily activities and quality of life.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency Symptoms
Leg swelling is a typical sign of this condition. Your ankles and feet may appear puffy, particularly after long periods of standing or sitting. The swelling can worsen throughout the day and improve overnight when you elevate your legs.
Aching and heaviness in your legs frequently accompany the swelling. These sensations typically intensify during warm weather or after prolonged activity. You might notice cramping in your calves, especially at night, which interrupts your sleep patterns.
Skin changes may develop as the condition progresses. Your lower legs may develop a brownish discoloration, particularly around the ankles. The skin becomes thicker and may feel tight or itchy. Some people experience dry, scaly patches that resist moisturizing efforts. Varicose veins may appear as twisted, enlarged blood vessels visible beneath the skin. These bulging veins may cause tenderness when touched. Spider veins, smaller red or purple lines, frequently cluster around affected areas.
Regular Exercise
Walking stimulates blood flow in your leg muscles and helps push blood upward toward your heart. A daily walk provides significant benefits for circulation. The rhythmic contraction of your calf muscles acts like a pump, assisting your veins in moving blood against gravity.
Swimming offers an excellent low-impact exercise option for chronic venous insufficiency. The water pressure naturally compresses your legs while you move, promoting better circulation. Pool exercises allow you to stay active without putting excessive strain on your joints. Calf raises also may strengthen the muscles that support venous return.
Compression Therapy
Compression stockings apply graduated pressure to your legs, with the highest pressure at the ankle decreasing toward the knee. This external pressure helps your veins move blood more efficiently back to your heart. Proper fitting remains necessary for effectiveness. Your healthcare provider measures your legs at specific times of day to determine the correct size. Wearing compression stockings from morning until bedtime provides optimal benefits. Replace stockings every three to six months as the elastic fibers lose their compression strength over time.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a special solution directly into affected veins. The solution causes the vein walls to swell and stick together, eventually closing the vein. Blood naturally reroutes through healthy veins nearby. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in a medical office and typically requires multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. The treatment works well on smaller varicose veins and spider veins. Recovery involves wearing compression stockings and avoiding strenuous activity for a specified period.
Treat Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Managing chronic venous insufficiency requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both symptoms and underlying circulation problems. Early intervention helps prevent progression and reduces the likelihood of complications such as leg ulcers. Lifestyle modifications, including elevating your legs when resting and avoiding prolonged periods of standing, support these treatments. Take the first step toward better leg health by scheduling a consultation with a vascular specialist. A thorough evaluation will help determine which treatment options suit your specific condition and lifestyle needs.
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