Venous Insufficiency
What is Venous Insufficiency?
Normally, the valves in your veins work in a “one way” direction as blood flows toward your heart. When these valves don’t work well, blood can also flow backward. This can cause blood to collect (pool) in your legs. If untreated, debilitating symptoms can occur such as pain, cramps, swelling, skin changes, varicose veins, and leg ulcers. Other common causes of venous disease include a history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and obstruction in the Iliac veins.
What are the signs & Symptoms of venous Insufficiency?
- Varicose veins
- Leg or ankle swelling
- Heaviness or fatigue in legs
- “Restless legs”
- Cramping or leg pain
- Ulcers or other open wounds
- Itching or burning of the skin
- Skin discoloration
What are the risk factors for venous Insufficiency?
- Anyone over age 50
- Females are at higher risk
- Females with a history of multiple pregnancies
- History of hip or lumbar surgery
- May-Thurner Syndrome
- Obesity
- History of gynecologic surgery
- Individuals in “prolonged standing professions” (Hairdressers, Teachers, healthcare professionals, etc.)
- Family history of varicose veins
- Previous trauma to legs