Title: Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Insights from Dr. Achintya Sharma

Introduction:

As a vascular surgeon with extensive experience treating a wide range of circulatory conditions at Max Hospital Shalimar Bagh, I've encountered many cases of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). This condition, often underrecognized, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life if left untreated. In this blog post, I aim to provide a comprehensive overview of chronic venous insufficiency, including its causes, symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options.


What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)?

Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in the veins of the legs fail to function properly, leading to impaired blood flow back to the heart. This can result in pooling of blood in the legs, causing a range of symptoms and potential complications.


Causes of CVI:

Several factors can contribute to the development of chronic venous insufficiency, including:

1. Damage to the vein valves due to blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), inflammation, or trauma.

2. Genetics or family history of venous disease.

3. Prolonged standing or sitting, which can increase pressure on the veins and weaken the valve function.

4. Obesity, which adds extra pressure on the veins.

5. Pregnancy, hormonal changes, and aging, which can affect vein elasticity and valve function.


Symptoms of CVI:

Common symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency may include:

1. Swelling in the legs or ankles, especially after standing for long periods.

2. Aching or heaviness in the legs, particularly at the end of the day.

3. Cramping or restless legs, often relieved by elevating the legs.

4. Varicose veins, which are enlarged, twisted veins visible just beneath the skin's surface.

5. Skin changes, such as redness, itching, or the development of venous ulcers.


Diagnosis and Evaluation:

Diagnosing chronic venous insufficiency typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests, including:

1. Physical examination to assess symptoms and signs of venous disease.

2. Duplex ultrasound to visualize blood flow in the veins and identify any valve dysfunction or blood clots.

3. Venous reflux testing to measure the backward flow of blood in the veins.


Treatment Options:

Treatment for chronic venous insufficiency aims to relieve symptoms, improve blood flow, and prevent complications. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options may include:

1. Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, elevation of the legs, and wearing compression stockings.

2. Minimally invasive procedures, such as endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) or sclerotherapy, to close off dysfunctional veins and redirect blood flow.

3. Surgical interventions, such as vein ligation and stripping, for more advanced cases or large varicose veins.

4. Medications to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, or prevent blood clots.


Conclusion:

Chronic venous insufficiency is a common vascular condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life if left untreated. As a vascular surgeon at Max Hospital Shalimar Bagh, I am dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatment options for patients with CVI. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation. Together, we can develop a comprehensive treatment plan to improve your venous health and overall well-being.


Dr. Achintya Sharma

Vascular Surgeon

Max Hospital Shalimar Bagh

For appointment : 📞 +91-9717368414

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