Facts about Venous Insufficiency
Varicose veins are often caused by an underlying vein condition known as chronic venous insufficiency or CVI. The problem occurs when the veins in the lower legs become damaged, making it more difficult for them to move blood back up the legs to the heart. If you suffer from bulging, twisting varicose veins, there are a few facts about CVI you need to know.
Causes of CVI
CVI affects the tiny valves inside the veins that are responsible for keeping blood moving in a single direction. These valves can become damaged or wear out over time, allowing blood to pool in the lower vessels and varicosity to occur. Some factors that contribute to the damage include:
• Extended periods of sitting or standing
• Lack of exercise
• Weight gain
• Smoking
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Age (more often to occur in people over 50)
Symptoms of CVI
Often the first visible symptom of CVI is the appearance of spider or varicose veins. However, if the condition is left inch unchecked over a period of time, other symptoms can develop. These symptoms might include:
• Heavy or aching legs, especially at the end of the day
• Leg cramps or restless legs, particularly at night
• Itching or skin irritation around the location of the veins
• Swelling of the lower leg, ankle and foot
• Changes to the skin’s color or texture
The symptoms of CVI indicate the condition is worsening. While CVI may not be a serious medical condition, it can become uncomfortable enough to keep you from wearing certain types of clothing or participating in activities you once enjoyed.
Diagnosing CVI
Modern technology has made it easier to diagnose CVI than ever before. Ultrasound imaging utilizes sound waves to form images of the vessels and the blood running through them to measure blood pressure and detect signs of abnormality. This non-invasive procedure does not involve anesthesia or incisions, and patients are completely comfortable throughout the examination. Once CVI is accurately diagnosed, a treatment program can be recommended.
Treatment for CVI
Like the diagnosis of CVI, treatment for the condition is also minimally-invasive and highly effective. At Center for Vein Restoration, we offer a variety of treatments that address the CVI, while eliminating unsightly and uncomfortable varicose veins. Using state-of-the-art procedures, we are able to treat this problem without general anesthesia, surgery or downtime. Most of our procedures take an hour or less to complete and patients often return to regular activities as soon as treatment is over.
Don’t let CVI and varicose veins put a damper on your quality of life. To learn more about your treatment options, contact Center for Vein Restoration today at 610-200-6924 (LEGS).