Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is a condition where the veins in the legs are unable to efficiently return blood to the heart, leading to poor blood flow and increased pressure in the veins. This can occur when the valves inside the veins that help regulate blood flow become weakened or damaged, allowing blood to flow backward and pool in the veins.
CVI can cause symptoms such as:
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Pain or aching, especially after standing for long periods
- Heaviness or tiredness in the legs
- Varicose veins
- Skin changes (such as brownish discoloration, called hemosiderin staining, due to leaking red blood cells)
- Ulcers or sores on the skin, usually near the ankles
The condition can be caused by factors such as age, genetics, prolonged periods of standing or sitting, obesity, pregnancy, and a history of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Treatment for CVI may include lifestyle changes, compression stockings, medications, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions to improve blood flow.