Chronic Venous Insufficiency – What It Is and How to Treat It

Ever notice your legs feeling heavy, swelling after a long day, or see those blue‑purple veins popping out? That’s often a sign of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). In simple terms, your leg veins aren’t pushing blood back to the heart as they should, so blood pools and leaks into surrounding tissue. The result is swelling, pain, and sometimes skin changes. Understanding CVI is the first step to keeping your legs feeling good.

Why Your Veins Might Be Struggling

CVI usually appears when the one‑way valves inside the veins get weak or damaged. These valves normally stop blood from sliding back down. Age, genetics, obesity, and a job that keeps you sitting or standing for hours can all wear them out. Pregnancy, previous deep‑vein clots, and even wearing tight clothing that squeezes the legs can add pressure, making the problem worse. Knowing the triggers helps you spot early warning signs before they turn into bigger issues.

Practical Ways to Ease the Symptoms

First, move often. Walking, calf raises, or simple ankle pumps keep blood flowing and give the valves a workout. If you sit a lot, set a timer to stand up and stretch every 30 minutes. Compression stockings are another game‑changer; they gently squeeze the leg to support the veins and reduce swelling. Choose the right compression level – a healthcare professional can guide you.

Next, watch your weight and diet. Extra pounds put more pressure on your veins, and a salty diet can make fluid build‑up worse. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and veggies to keep your blood pressure in check. Staying hydrated also helps your circulation stay smooth.

When symptoms get stubborn, medical options jump in. Doctors may suggest minimally invasive procedures like endovenous laser therapy or radiofrequency ablation, which seal off faulty veins. In more advanced cases, surgery to remove or tie off the problem veins might be needed. These treatments have good success rates and often let people return to normal activities quickly.

Skin care matters too. Swollen legs can lead to skin discoloration, itching, or even ulcers if left untreated. Keep the skin clean, moisturized, and protected from cuts. If you notice a sore that won’t heal, see a doctor right away – early treatment prevents infection and serious complications.

Finally, track your progress. Take photos of your legs, note any changes in swelling or pain, and share them with your health provider. Having a clear picture lets you and your doctor adjust the plan as needed. With the right mix of movement, compression, diet, and professional care, most people can control CVI and keep their legs feeling strong.