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Problems and Symptoms
Since the lowest legs are the farthest part of the body from the heart and are below the heart, there is considerable pressure needed to push blood back up the venous system. Veins in the legs dilate when more pressure is added. This pressure can come from:
- Standing
- Obesity
- Even pregnancy, since these all increase stress on the system.
Over time, this increased pressure can lead to multiple problems, including dilated veins, valve malfunctions and reduced circulation. Fatigue, aching and swelling of the legs and feet can be a result.
Some Problems due to venous insuffiency include:
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Varicose Veins:
When extra pressure on the veins causes them to become permanently dilated, the valves cannot function properly, and blood can flow back down into the legs. When valves fail in the superficial veins, unsightly varicose veins may occur. Varicose veins can lead to a variety of symptoms:
- Leg Pain
- Leg Swelling
- Leg ulcers
- Higher risk of a pulmonary embolism
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Chronic Venous Insufficiency:
Incompetent veins can cause below normal blood flow, which can lead to a condition called Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). CVI can be characterized by:
- Leg Pain and swelling
- Discoloration of the lower leg, often causing brown patches
- Venous ulcers
- Dermatitis
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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):
DVT is caused by the formation of a blood clot in the deep venous system. This can occur following surgery or trauma to the legs, and causes stagnation of the blood flow in the leg. DVT is especially dangerous if the clot breaks away and travels to the lungs, leading to a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. DVT can also form during long-haul flights, where the combination of cramped spaces, immobility, and air pressure differences increase DVT risk dramatically.
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Click here to learn more about graduated compression hosiery and its role in treating venous problems.
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