Everything You Need to Know About Venous Reflux

Venous reflux, also known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), is a condition that affects the veins in your legs. It occurs when the valves in the veins malfunction, causing blood to flow backward and pool in the legs. This can lead to a variety of symptoms and, if left untreated, can result in serious health complications.

Venous diseases are some of the most chronic health issues in the United States. In fact, nearly 40% of Americans are experiencing CVI.

Many don’t realize that venous diseases are progressive, meaning they can worsen over time. That’s why we believe it’s our duty to educate you on the details of this common condition. Here’s everything you need to know about CVI to understand your risk, monitor symptoms, determine whether you need treatment, or make progress toward prevention.

What are the causes of venous reflux?

Many people suffering from venous reflux have an inherited gene that makes them more likely to develop the condition. However, several other factors can contribute to the development of CVI:

Existing Conditions

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A history of DVT can damage or weaken the vein valves.
• Vein Wall Weakness: Weak vein walls can enlarge veins, preventing the valves from closing properly.
• Congenital Absence of Vein Valves: Some people are born without sufficient vein valves.
• Blood Clots: Previous blood clots can lead to vein damage.
• Tumors or Unusual Growths: These can obstruct veins and impair function.
• Blockages in the Pelvis or Groin Veins: Obstructions in these areas can lead to venous reflux.

Lifestyle Factors

• Obesity and Overweight: Excess weight puts additional pressure on the veins.
• Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and pressure during pregnancy can affect veins.
• Constipation: Straining can increase pressure on the veins.
• Heavy Lifting: Regular heavy lifting and straining can weaken vein walls.
• Prolonged Standing: Standing for long periods can increase pressure in the leg veins.

• Being Female: Women are more likely to develop CVI due to hormonal influences.
• High Blood Pressure: Elevated pressure can damage veins over time.
• Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles can weaken vein walls and muscles that support blood flow.

What are the symptoms of venous reflux?

CVI can lead to tissue inflammation and damage, sometimes even causing open sores on the skin’s surface. Inflammation associated with CVI can cause several symptoms, including:

• Achy, Tired Legs: A heavy or tired feeling in the legs, especially after long periods of standing.
• Cramping: Leg cramps that occur primarily during the night.
• Discolored Skin: Skin may appear reddish, brown, or other abnormal colors.
• Edema: Swelling in the lower legs and ankles.
• Varicose Veins: Enlarged, twisted veins visible just under the skin.
• Ulcers: Open sores, typically around the ankles, that are slow to heal.

As mentioned earlier, CVI is a progressive disease that worsens over the course of several stages. Each stage is characterized by different symptoms:

• Stage 1: Mild swelling and achiness, possibly with visible varicose veins.
• Stage 2: Increased swelling, skin discoloration, and more prominent varicose veins.
• Stage 3: Severe swelling, significant skin changes, and development of ulcers.

(Refer to Cleveland Clinic for a detailed breakdown of each stage.)

How is Venous Reflux Diagnosed?

Diagnosing venous reflux typically involves both clinical examination and diagnostic tests:

• Clinical Consultation: This involves a physical exam at a vein and leg pain center to check for visible signs of CVI, such as varicose veins and skin changes.
• Non-Invasive Doppler Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to visualize blood flow in the veins and detect reflux.
• Self-Exams: Regularly checking your legs for signs like discoloration, swelling, or ulcers can help catch CVI early.

How is Venous Reflux Treated?

Treatment plans vary depending on the stage and severity of your condition. Less invasive treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and compression therapy, while some instances require surgical interventions. Here’s an overview of what each treatment option could look like:

Medications

• Diuretics: Help reduce swelling by removing excess fluid from the body.
• Venoactive Drugs: Improve vein tone and reduce symptoms.

Compression Therapy

• Compression Stockings: Specially designed socks that apply pressure to your legs, helping veins return blood to the heart.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• • Sclerotherapy: Injection of a solution that scars and closes the affected veins.
  • Thermal Venous Ablation: Uses heat as radiofrequency therapy to seal off varicose veins.

• Non-Thermal Ablation: Uses a fast-acting adhesive called venaseal to seal veins.

Surgical Treatments

• Vein Stripping and Ligation: Removal of the affected vein through small incisions.
• Microphlebectomy: Removal of varicose veins through tiny punctures.

What can I do to prevent venous reflux?

Living a healthy and active lifestyle is the best way to lower your risk for developing CVI. Here are specific measures you can take:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reduces pressure on your veins.
• Stay Active: Regular low-impact exercise, such as walking or swimming, helps improve circulation.
• Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Take breaks to move around if you have to sit or stand for long periods.
• Elevate Your Legs: Helps reduce pressure in the veins.
• Wear Compression Stockings: Especially if you have a family history of CVI.

Schedule a consultation to screen for or manage venous reflux.

If you are at risk or have symptoms of venous reflux, it’s essential to consult with a specialist. At Texas Cardiology Associates, we offer comprehensive screening and treatment options to manage CVI effectively. The first step toward a healthier circulatory system is a simple one that you can take right now.

Call us at (281) 358-1950 or book an appointment online.

Our team of specialists is here to help you understand your risk, develop a prevention plan, and provide the most effective treatments available.

Our specialties include:

• Comprehensive CVI screening
• Personalized treatment plans
• Advanced surgical and non-surgical interventions

Contact Texas Cardiology Associates to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward healthier veins.