How Chronic Venous Insufficiency Affects Your Quality of Life

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) can certainly be a cosmetic nuisance, but it's also a condition that can significantly affect your daily life and overall well-being. If left untreated, CVI can lead to discomfort, swelling, and even more serious complications over time, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and limited mobility. At Vein & Body Specialists in Bellevue, OH, board-certified radiologist Dr. David West and our experienced team of vein specialists are committed to helping patients restore and preserve their health and quality of life by diagnosing and treating a complete range of vein conditions, including CVI. Take a closer look here at just how substantially CVI can affect daily living, what options are available to manage your CVI symptoms, and more.

What is chronic venous insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in your legs are unable to properly return blood to your heart. This happens when the valves in your veins weaken or become damaged, allowing blood to pool in the legs.

How does CVI affect your day-to-day life?

CVI is typically a progressive condition. In earlier stages, patients may experience CVI symptoms like swelling, pain, and varicose veins. In more severe cases of CVI, patients can develop skin changes, ulcers, or other complications, including DVT. Generally speaking, CVI develops slowly and can worsen over time if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing more serious CVI symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

What are some CVI symptoms?

CVI can significantly impact both your physical comfort and your daily activities. Common symptoms include leg pain, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the legs. These symptoms can make it difficult to stay active, leading to a sedentary lifestyle that can further aggravate the condition. As the symptoms worsen, patients may find it harder to stand, walk, or enjoy activities they once loved. Some of the most compelling ways CVI can diminish your quality of life include:

• Leg pain and discomfort
• Chronic pain
• Swelling that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing
• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
• Limited mobility
• Inability to exercise comfortably
• Itching or burning sensations
• Visible varicose veins
• Poor self-esteem
• Depression

These symptoms can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming, and many people with CVI may feel a reduction in their overall quality of life.

How is CVI treated?

Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available to relieve the symptoms of CVI and prevent further complications. At Vein & Body Specialists, Dr. West and our team offer a variety of advanced CVI treatments tailored to each patient's condition and needs. The most appropriate treatment for your CVI will be determined during a private consultation, during which time your symptoms, medical history, and overall health will be carefully evaluated. Some of the most widely used and most effective treatments for CVI include:

• Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT)
• Sclerotherapy
• Compression therapy

Does losing weight help with CVI?

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on your CVI symptoms and overall vein health. By adopting healthier habits, you can help reduce discomfort and prevent the progression of the condition. Some lifestyle changes that can help improve CVI include:

• Regular physical activity
• Elevating your legs when resting
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing
• Wearing compression stockings as recommended
• Not smoking

These lifestyle adjustments, combined with appropriate medical treatment and monitoring, can significantly improve your quality of life and help you manage your CVI more effectively.

Don't let CVI hold you back any longer. Call our vein specialists in Bellevue, OH to find relief from CVI symptoms

Whether the symptoms of CVI are starting to interfere with your happiness or quality of life, it may be time to seek evaluation and treatment to avoid worsening symptoms that may ultimately compromise your ability to enjoy your day-to-day activities. At Vein & Body Specialists in Bellevue, OH, board-certified radiologist Dr. David West offers advanced CVI treatment options, including EVLT and sclerotherapy, to help relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you manage your CVI and get back to your favorite activities with comfort and confidence.