What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is a condition that affects the veins in your legs, making it difficult for blood to flow back up to the heart. Instead of moving efficiently, blood begins to pool in the veins, leading to swelling, pain, and visible vein damage.

While it may sound complex, CVI is actually a common condition—especially among adults over the age of 50, those who spend long hours standing or sitting, and individuals with a history of varicose veins.

What Causes CVI?

CVI occurs when the valves in the veins of your legs become weakened or damaged. These valves are meant to keep blood flowing in one direction—toward the heart. When they fail, blood can flow backward and collect in the lower legs.

Common causes and risk factors include:

  • A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Varicose veins
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Prolonged sitting or standing
  • Family history of vein disease
  • Smoking

Symptoms to Watch For

The signs of CVI may develop slowly, but they tend to worsen over time without treatment. Common symptoms include:

  • Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
  • Aching, cramping, or heaviness in the legs
  • Skin discoloration (typically brown or reddish)
  • Varicose veins or bulging veins
  • Itchy or leathery skin on the legs
  • Ulcers or open sores near the ankles

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early intervention can prevent further complications.

Why Treatment Matters

Left untreated, CVI can lead to chronic leg pain, skin changes, and non-healing ulcers. These complications not only affect your quality of life—they can also increase your risk for more serious issues like infection or blood clots.

The good news? At Summit Vein Care, we offer advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive treatments to manage and relieve CVI effectively.

Treatment Options at Summit Vein Care

Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of your condition and your unique health history. We offer a range of modern therapies, including:

Compression Therapy:  Specially designed stockings to help improve blood flow and reduce swelling

Sclerotherapy:  A safe, non-surgical procedure where a solution is injected into damaged veins to collapse and close them.

Endovenous Laser Therapy:  A minimally invasive laser procedure that seals problematice veins from the insidel

Lifestyle Recommendations:  Including exercise, diet, and leg elevation to manage symptoms and improve circulation. For additional support with diet and nutrition visit our partners at Roots of Nature Aesthetics and Wellness. 

You Don’t Have to Live with Leg Pain

If your legs feel heavy, swollen, or sore at the end of the day, it could be more than just fatigue. Chronic Venous Insufficiency is treatable and early intervention makes a difference.

At Summit Vein Care, we specialize in personalized care for vein disorders. Our team is here to help you feel better, move better, and live without discomfort.

Contact Summit Vein Care today to schedule a free vein screening and take the first step toward healthier legs.