π¦΅π½ Client Education Series- Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Jul 31, 2025Welcome to the Client Education Series. As a health literacy consultant, I intend to make this a regular part of the blog. Here, you will find evidence-based information designed to empower you to make informed decisions with your healthcare provider.
Recently, the President of the United States was diagnosed with a condition called chronic venous insufficiency- CVI for short. I thought this was a good topic to start with, particularly because it's often diagnosed at a later stage, and there's a lot that can be done to control the symptoms before they worsen.
CVI occurs when the valves in your leg veins become weakened or damaged. Instead of moving blood back to your heart, the blood pools in your legs, causing swelling, discomfort, and visible changes over time.
π Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
CVI can manifest differently for each person. You might notice:
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Swelling in the lower legs and ankles (especially after standing)
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Tired, heavy, or achy legs
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Varicose veins (twisted, bulging veins under the skin)
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Skin changes like thickening, itchiness, or darkening
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Restless legs or cramping
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Dry, flaky rashes (stasis dermatitis)
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Open sores or ulcers near the ankles
π Not everyone will have all these symptoms, and sometimes legs can feel worse than they look.
β οΈ Why It Matters: Complications of CVI
If left untreated, CVI can lead to:
π¨ Venous leg ulcers (open sores that are slow to heal)
π¨ Skin infections like cellulitis
π¨ Bleeding from varicose veins
π¨ Blood clots in superficial or deep veins
𧬠What Causes CVI?
CVI is usually caused by increased pressure in the leg veins (called venous hypertension). Common triggers include:
πΉ Aging or family history
πΉ Previous blood clots
πΉ Pregnancy
πΉ Obesity
πΉ Sitting or standing for long periods
πΉ Weak calf muscles
π§ͺ How Is CVI Diagnosed?
Your doctor may:
π©Ί Ask about your symptoms
𦡠Examine your legs
π₯οΈ Use ultrasound to look for valve damage or blockages
π‘ How to Manage CVI
CVI is a long-term condition, but the good news is that it’s manageable! Here's how:
πβοΈ 1. Lifestyle Changes
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Stay active: Walking helps calf muscles pump blood back up
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Elevate your legs: Raise your legs above heart level daily
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Lose weight (if needed): Reduces pressure on veins
𧦠2. Compression Therapy
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Wear compression stockings daily
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Common strength: 20–30 mm Hg (or 30–40 mm Hg for ulcers)
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They don’t cure CVI—but they control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
π 3. Medications
Your healthcare provider will most likely refer you to a specialist to determine what medications can be used.
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Venoactive drugs like MPFF and diosmin can reduce pain and swelling
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Herbal supplements, such as horse chestnut extract, may be used (although less common in the U.S.).
𧴠4. Skin Care
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Keep your skin clean and moisturized
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Treat rashes or ulcers under the guidance of a medical professional.
π©» 5. Procedures & Surgery (If Needed)
For stubborn symptoms or ulcers:
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Laser or radiofrequency ablation (seals off bad veins)
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Sclerotherapy (injects solution into veins)
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Surgery (removes or ties off damaged veins)
These are typically last-resort treatments, used after conservative measures have been exhausted.
π§βοΈ Other Helpful Tips
βοΈ Manage health conditions like diabetes, heart failure, or sleep apnea
β Diuretics (water pills) are not recommended for swelling unless there's another reason
π¨ When to Call Your Doctor
π If you notice:
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Sudden leg swelling or pain
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Non-healing open sores
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Signs of infection: redness, warmth, pus, fever
π¬ Final Thoughts: You’ve Got Options
CVI may be chronic, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. Through movement, compression, self-care, and proper guidance, you can alleviate your symptoms and prevent complications.
π Want guidance that’s tailored to you? Let's talk
Book a FREE 30-minute call to determine how I can provide you with expert advocacy and personalized support.
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