You may have heard the term “chronic venous insufficiency” in the news since President Donald Trump was recently diagnosed with the condition. Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) affects up to 40% of Americans, according to the Society for Vascular Surgery.
But what exactly is CVI, and should you be concerned?
Understanding chronic venous insufficiency
Your body has two main types of blood vessels: arteries, which carry blood away from your heart, and veins, which bring blood back to your heart. In your legs, veins have tiny one-way valves that help push blood upward — against gravity — back to your heart.
When these valves become weak or damaged, blood can start to flow backward and pool in your legs. This is what we call chronic venous insufficiency.
What causes CVI?
CVI can happen for several reasons, including:
- A history of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Varicose veins
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Standing or sitting for long periods
- Family history of vein problems
As we age, our vein walls and valves can weaken, making CVI more common in older adultslike President Trump, who was 79 when his diagnosis was announced.
Common symptoms
CVI can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- A feeling of heaviness or aching in the legs
- Varicose veins (twisted, bulging veins under the skin)
- Skin changes, such as dark spots, redness or itching
- Leg cramps or restless legs
- Open sores or ulcers, especially near the ankles
These symptoms often get worse after standing or sitting for long periods and may improve when you elevate your legs.
How is CVI diagnosed?
If you’re experiencing symptoms, the Vein Clinic is here to help. A service of Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Vascular Center, the Vein Clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like chronic venous insufficiency.
Here’s what to expect: Your healthcare provider may perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history. The most common test used to diagnose CVI is a venous ultrasound, which uses sound waves to check how well blood is flowing through your leg veins.
Treatment options
The good news is that CVI is treatable, especially when caught early. Treatment focuses on improving blood flow and relieving symptoms. Options include:
Lifestyle Changes
- Exercise regularly to help blood move through your legs.
- Elevate your legs when resting.
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
Compression therapy
Wearing compression stockings helps squeeze the legs gently, encouraging blood to flow upward.
Medications
Some medications can help reduce swelling and improve vein function.
Minimally invasive procedures
If lifestyle changes and compression aren’t enough, procedures like sclerotherapy, laser therapy, or vein ablation can close off damaged veins and reroute blood flow. We can do these procedures right here in the Vein Clinic office at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville.
Surgery
In more severe cases, surgical options may be needed to remove or repair damaged veins.
When to see a specialist
Chronic venous insufficiency is a common and manageable condition. While it’s not life-threatening, it can affect your comfort and quality of life. The key is to recognize the signs early and take action.
If you notice swelling, skin changes, or visible veins in your legs, don’t wait. Early treatment can prevent complications like ulcers or infections. A vascular specialist can help you find the right treatment plan for your needs.
Want to learn more about vein health and treatment options? Visit ngpg.org/vein to explore our resources. Schedule a consultation by calling 770-219-4000, or click the button below.