Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

Chronic venous insufficiency: A common vein condition

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition in which the veins in the legs malfunction and allow blood to leak backward, causing blood to pool in the legs and putting increased pressure on the veins. This could be a major chronic condition impacting your quality of life and daily activities.

This is one of the most common chronic conditions in the United States and can cause significant pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Our Vascular and Endovascular Program team will work with you to develop a treatment plan to manage your symptoms and help avoid serious complications.

When left untreated, this condition can lead to skin that is sensitive when bumped or scratched and can cause tissue damage and open sores on the skin’s surface, known as ulcers. At MedStar Health, our experienced vascular care team can grant some relief and tailor a treatment plan that meets your needs, with treatment services offered in Washington D.C., Baltimore, Maryland, and northern Virginia.

Chronic venous insufficiency symptoms

The earlier you are diagnosed and treated for this condition, the better your chances of preventing serious complications.

See your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms:

Swelling, aching, or tiredness in the legs
Discoloration of the legs (often a brown discoloration)
Hard, thick skin around the ankles
Leg ulcers, particularly around the ankles
Restless legs or an uncomfortable urge to move your legs due to swelling/discomfort
Varicose veins (spider veins) or vein changes

Common risk factors for CVI

This condition occurs more frequently in women and people older than 50. Other risk factors include:

Deep vein thrombosis
Extended periods of sitting or standing
Family history of chronic venous insufficiency
Inactivity
Obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Varicose veins

Chronic venous insufficiency treatments

There are several treatment options; often, the initial treatment is conservative and may include:

Avoiding long periods of sitting or standing
Elevating your legs while sitting and lying down
Exercising regularly
Losing weight
Wearing compression stockings or Unna’s boots, which are gauze bandages coated with zinc oxide to create a semi-rigid boot

If these treatments are unsuccessful, your doctor may recommend more advanced treatment.