Vein problems like varicose or spider veins are often just cosmetic concerns. However, they may be signifying an underlying health issue known as chronic venous insufficiency or CVI.
CVI occurs when the valves in the veins are not working properly. Healthy veins move blood towards the heart, and they have valves that keep the blood from leaking the opposite way. When the valves are leaking, venous insufficiency occurs.
The leading warning signs of CVI are:
A feeling of heaviness
Leg cramps
Tingling and itching sensations
Pain from standing
Leg swelling
Changes in skin color and condition on legs and ankles
Ulcers on the skin
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Chronic Vein Insufficiency (CVI) Treatments
In a private, complimentary consultation, Dr. Ferdouse Sartawi will carefully evaluate your venous issue and customize a treatment for an optimal outcome. Most frequently, sclerotherapy — or in some cases RFA (radio frequency ablation) — are chosen to treat these problems.
Sclerotherapy
State-of-the-art sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting chemicals into damaged veins. Besides diminishing the appearance of spider veins, sclerotherapy can also reduce pain or side effects caused by damaged veins. Go here to read more about this highly effective procedure.
Uses a small catheter inserted into the vein. The catheter delivers radiofrequency to the vein wall, causing it to heat, collapse, and seal shut. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Go here to read more about RFA.
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition that occurs when the venous wall and/or valves in the leg veins are not working effectively, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart from the legs.
Can chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) be dangerous?
Left untreated, CVI can cause pain, inflammation and swelling.
What can I do to prevent chronic venous insufficiency?
Maintain a healthy body weight, exercise, avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time, and do not smoke.
What causes chronic venous insufficiency?
Common causes of CVI include heredity, pregnancy and being overweight. Issues such as blood clots and leg trauma may also cause CVI. Smoking, high blood pressure and lack of exercise can also be culprits behind CVI.
What treatments are recommended for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)?
