Venous Insufficiency Specialist

What is venous insufficiency?

Venous insufficiency means your veins don’t efficiently return blood back to the heart for reoxygenation. When left untreated, venous insufficiency turns into a chronic condition known as chronic venous insufficiency. 

What causes venous insufficiency?

Damaged valves and blocked or narrowed veins are the primary causes of venous insufficiency. These vein problems make it harder for veins, especially the veins in your legs, to return blood back to the heart. 

Your veins are lined with valves that open and close as blood moves through on its way back to your heart. The valves prevent blood from falling backward and pooling. 

When these valves are weak or damaged they allow blood to leak or flow backward, which affects normal blood circulation and health. 

What are venous insufficiency symptoms?

When venous insufficiency affects the legs, you can develop a wide range of symptoms. Varicose veins may be one of the first signs of venous insufficiency.

Other symptoms include:

• Aching sensation in the legs
• Feeling of heaviness in your legs
• Swelling in the feet or ankles
• Leg fatigue
• Leg ulcers
• Change in color or texture of the skin on your legs

Over time, the backflow of blood increases pressure in your tiny blood vessels — the capillaries. These blood vessels then burst, which may cause inflammation and internal tissue damage. 

How is venous insufficiency diagnosed?

University Vascular is a state-of-the-art practice that performs onsite testing and procedures to help patients avoid hospitalization. They are leaders in the field of vascular treatment.

To diagnose venous insufficiency, they conduct a comprehensive history and physical that includes a close examination of your legs. 

To confirm or rule out venous insufficiency, your provider performs a vascular ultrasound, which is a noninvasive procedure that evaluates blood flow through the blood vessels in your legs. 

How is venous insufficiency treated?

University Vascular offers many treatments for venous insufficiency. Treatment depends on the severity and location of your impairment. 

Treatment for venous insufficiency may include:

• Avoiding long periods of sitting or standing
• Keeping your legs elevated when resting
• Using compression stockings to improve circulation
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Losing weight 

University Vascular may also perform procedures to get rid of your damaged vein, such as sclerotherapy, endovenous vein closure, or ambulatory microphlebectomy. 

Your provider spends time discussing your condition and treatment options so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Venous insufficiency is common and treatable. Call University Vascular or book an evaluation online today.