Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a pathological condition in which the venous blood outflow from the lower extremities is impaired. According to statistics, about a quarter of the adult population in economically developed countries face this disease.
The basis for the development of venous insufficiency is an excessive load on the veins of the lower limbs. It is caused by upright posture and the peculiarities of modern human activity. If the basics of a healthy lifestyle are not observed, excessive load on the veins of the legs is almost inevitable.
Symptoms of venous insufficiency
In the initial stages, clinical manifestations of chronic venous insufficiency include the syndrome of “heavy legs”. The patient feels discomfort after walking or standing, but writes it off as fatigue. Then the patient notices the “marbling” of the skin, the formation of vascular asterisks.
Chronic venous insufficiency is characterized by swelling around the ankles and shins. Swelling appears in the evening, completely disappearing after a night’s sleep. As the disease progresses, swelling becomes more pronounced.
Microcirculatory disorders lead to dystrophy of the skin on the legs. First, areas of hyperpigmentation are formed. Darkening is more often localized in the area of the ankle joint. The patient notices excessive dryness of the skin of the ankles, bothered by itching. The development of eczema is possible. Expressed dystrophy leads to the formation of deep trophic ulcers. Wounds are wet, do not heal for a long time, with infection, suppuration of tissues is possible.
Patients with significant dilation of the veins of the lower extremities may accumulate a large volume of blood in the legs, which is manifested by poor tolerance of physical and mental exertion, signs of heart failure.
Causes of venous insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency may occur due to congenital anomalies of the leg vascular system, post-thrombotic syndrome, varicose veins. Chronic venous insufficiency predisposes to:
- Individuals with genetic connective tissue diseases;
- women;
- the elderly;
- patients with endocrine disorders;
- obese people;
- people who lead inactive lifestyles.
Excessive increase in pressure in the veins of the legs provoke static loads, prolonged sitting, chronic constipation.
Treatment methods
Treatment of chronic venous insufficiency can be conservative and surgical. The method is selected depending on the degree of pathology and its neglect.
Conservative treatment
Conservative therapy includes:
- medication,
- compression bandages,
- physiotherapeutic procedures.
Surgical treatment
Surgical intervention is resorted to if conservative methods of treatment do not yield results. Surgery includes removal of varicose veins, laser coagulation of vessels. With timely diagnosis and properly selected therapy, the pathology can be managed without surgery.
Prevention and avoidance of complications of chronic venous insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency is a disease that develops gradually, so timely prevention plays a key role in preventing its complications, such as trophic ulcers, eczema and venous thrombosis. The main goal of prevention is to improve venous outflow and reduce the load on the veins of the lower limbs.
Key Recommendations:
- Physical activity. Regular moderate exercise (walking, swimming, cycling, therapeutic gymnastics) helps to activate the venous muscle pump of the lower legs, improving blood circulation.
- Body weight control. Being overweight increases the pressure on leg veins, so maintaining a normal body mass index reduces the risk of disease progression.
- Avoiding prolonged sitting and standing. If the work requires constant staying in one position, it is important to take breaks every 1-2 hours: walk, stretch or perform simple exercises for the legs.
- Use of compression hosiery. Elastic stockings or socks evenly distribute pressure on the legs, preventing blood stasis and swelling. They are especially recommended to wear them during long trips, flights and during pregnancy.
- Avoidance of bad habits. Smoking and alcohol abuse negatively affect the vascular system and accelerate the development of CVI.
- Care for the skin of the legs. To prevent trophic ulcers, it is important to moisturize the skin, avoid injuries and timely treat even minor injuries.
- Raising the legs above the level of the heart. During rest, it is useful to put your feet on an elevation (for example, a pillow) to promote the outflow of blood.
- Nutrition. A diet rich in fiber, vitamins C and E, rutin and flavonoids helps strengthen blood vessels and prevents constipation, which can cause increased intra-abdominal pressure.
Regular check-ups with a phlebologist are also important for early detection of signs of venous outflow disorders and timely initiation of therapy. The earlier prevention is started, the higher the chances of avoiding complications and preserving leg health.
Conclusion
Chronic venous insufficiency is a widespread and potentially dangerous disease that can significantly worsen the quality of life. However, with timely diagnosis, proper treatment and compliance with preventive recommendations, it is possible to slow the progression of CVI and avoid severe complications. Taking care of vein health is, first of all, regular physical activity, weight control, avoidance of bad habits and careful attention to the signals of your body. A comprehensive approach and follow-up with a specialist will help keep your legs healthy for years to come.
