Chronic venous disease, also known as chronic venous insufficiency, is a chronic, progressive disease of the veins. In this condition the superficial veins gradually dilate and lengthen, and the blood in them begins to pool. The venous pressure in the tissues of the leg rises, and over time this affects both the veins themselves and the skin and tissues around them.
Which complaints are typical?
In its milder forms, venous disease often presents with complaints that many people put down to tiredness or strain:
- a feeling of heaviness and a dull pain in the lower limbs;
- itching or burning of the skin of the lower legs;
- muscle spasms (cramps), often at night;
- swelling around the ankle, especially at the end of the day;
- a feeling of “restless legs”.
Typically, the complaints get worse after prolonged standing or sitting — for example, after a working day at a desk or on your feet.
Why should the disease not be underestimated?
Chronic venous disease is a progressive condition. In some patients, as it advances, complications can develop — inflammation of a dilated vein with the formation of blood clots (thrombophlebitis), inflammatory changes of the skin, eczema, and in more advanced stages hard-to-heal venous ulcers around the ankles. More serious complications associated with thrombosis of the deep veins are also possible.
That is why visibly dilated veins and persistent complaints in the legs deserve attention, even when they appear to be only a cosmetic problem.
How is the diagnosis made?
The assessment begins with a conversation about the complaints and the medical history, and with a clinical examination by a vascular surgeon. Where indicated, a Doppler ultrasound scan is performed — a non-invasive ultrasound method that shows the condition of the veins and the direction of the blood flow. On the basis of this assessment, an individual plan is discussed: from follow-up and conservative measures to treatment of the damaged veins.
When should you seek an examination?
It is sensible to seek a consultation with a vascular surgeon if you notice visibly dilated veins, persistent heaviness or pain in the legs, swelling around the ankles, or a wound on the limb that will not heal. Early assessment allows the condition to be brought under control in time and complications to be avoided.