Do you suffer from vein-related issues that aren’t only superficial, they’re cause for medical concern too? Perhaps you’ve come across the term venous insufficiency, and want to know more. This condition is otherwise known as chronic venous stasis or chronic venous disease, and we’ll explain more about the causes, symptoms and treatments – to help with relief.
The Definition
This happens when veins don’t perform their task of routing blood between the legs and heart. It can be caused by damaged walls of the veins, and the result is a bulging appearance.
Is it your fault? That’s the biggest question when patients are diagnosed with a condition. There are many reasons for chronic venous insufficiency, and these can range from natural causes like age or genetics. Women too, are more prone to the disease due to progesterone levels in the body. The disorder can be furthermore exacerbated by pregnancy, excess weight, doing the same activity all day, like sitting or standing; and even past blood clots.
Common Symptoms
Some of the most common telltale signs associated with venous insufficiency include:
- Heavy aches and cramps in the feet
- Restless leg syndrome, or persistent itchiness
- Increased levels of pain each time the legs move
- Inflammation and redness in ankles, knees and legs
- Hyperpigmentation, specifically in the legs
- Visible ulcers, or cuts with delayed healing
Thankfully, there are ways to treat this disease, some of which include sclerotherapy, ablation, vein bypass, stents or laser treatment. A surgeon can explain more details about how each work, and which ones may be right for you, based on your medical history, and how severe the disease may be.
Exams and Tests
To first diagnose however, ultrasounds are done to look for issues in how blood travels through the veins in the leg.
Natural Ways to Improve On Venous Insufficiency
There are a few lifestyle changes that you can make to improve the condition, and some include:
- Frequent Exercise – get moving with light to moderate exercises, including walking, stretching, yoga, running, aerobics and others.
- Maintain A Good Weight – speak to a nutritionist to compose a diet plan that helps you lose or maintain weight, since we know that obesity affects the condition.
- Compression – means relief, and items like socks or stockings can be purchased in store, or online.
Finally and most importantly, visit a specialist if the condition proves too hard to ignore.
