Chronic Venous Insufficiency (Chronic Venous Insufficiency)
Is a condition where the veins in the legs cannot effectively return blood to the heart, causing blood to pool in the veins. This results in symptoms such as swelling, heavy legs, leg pain, and may progress to chronic leg ulcers. This condition is common in working-age adults and the elderly, especially those who stand or sit for long periods or have a history of varicose veins.
Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Patients with CVI may experience symptoms ranging from early to severe stages, such as
- Swollen legs, especially in the evening or after prolonged standing
- Feeling of heavy legs, tightness, or fatigue
- Varicose veins, bulging veins
- Skin discoloration, darkening, or thickening around the ankles or shins
- Itching, dry skin, peeling, or rash on the legs
- Chronic leg ulcers that are difficult to heal, especially around the ankles
If there are chronic leg ulcers, it indicates a severe stage of the disease and you should see a doctor promptly.
Causes of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
The main cause is the deterioration of the valves in the veins, causing blood to flow backward into the legs. Common causes include
- Varicose veins
- History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Prolonged standing or sitting regularly
- Increasing age
- Overweight or obesity
- Multiple pregnancies
Who is at risk of CVI
- Office workers, people who work in front of computers
- Salespeople, nurses who stand for long periods
- Elderly people
- People with varicose veins
- People who exercise little
- Genetics
Diagnosis of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Accurate examination helps plan targeted treatment and reduces the risk of complications.
- Medical history and physical examination
- Duplex ultrasound to assess blood flow and valve function in the veins
Treatment of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and includes several approaches
- Self-care and behavior modification Avoid prolonged standing or sitting, elevate legs 2–3 times a day, exercise such as walking or swimming, and control weight
- Wearing medical compression stockings helps increase pressure, reduce swelling, and improve blood return to the heart
- Medication to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation
- Procedural or surgical treatment such as laser therapy, sclerotherapy, or surgery for severe varicose veins
Complications if untreated
If left untreated, complications may include
- Chronic leg ulcers
- Infection
- Permanent skin thickening
- Significant reduction in quality of life
When to see a doctor
Early consultation helps reduce disease severity and avoid surgery
- Chronic leg swelling that does not subside
- Varicose veins accompanied by pain or darkened skin
- Leg ulcers that do not heal within 2–4 weeks
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (Chronic Venous Insufficiency) is a common and often overlooked condition. Early recognition and appropriate treatment can prevent complications and allow a return to normal life. If you have chronic leg swelling, varicose veins, heavy leg pain, or difficult-to-heal leg ulcers, do not ignore these symptoms until they worsen.
You can receive evaluation and targeted treatment planning with a vascular surgery specialist at the Center of Excellence in Advanced Surgery, Phyathai 2 Hospital, equipped with precise diagnostic technology and comprehensive treatment options ranging from non-surgical care to advanced procedures and surgery, helping patients regain confidence and quality of life.
Dr. Supachai Janwitun
Vascular Surgery Specialist
