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Venous insufficiency

Definition

Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the veins have problems sending blood from the legs back to the heart.

See also:

• Deep venous thrombosis
• Varicose veins
• Stasis dermatitis and ulcers

Alternative Names

Chronic venous insufficiency

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Venous insufficiency involves one or more veins. Valves in the veins usually push the flow of blood toward the heart. When these valves are damaged, the blood leaks and pools in the legs and feet. The condition may also be caused by a blockage in a vein from a clot (deep vein thrombosis).

Chronic venous insufficiency is a long-term condition. It occurs because of partial vein blockage or blood leakage around the valves of the veins.

Symptoms

• Swelling of the legs  
• Dull aching, heaviness, or cramping in legs
• Pain gets worse when standing
• Pain better when raising the legs

Persons with chronic venous insufficiency may also have:

• Skin color changes around the ankles
• Redness of legs and ankles
• Thickening of the skin on legs and ankles
• Ulcers on the legs and ankles

Review Date:5/24/2006
Reviewed By:Charlotte Grayson, MD, Private Practice specializing in Internal Medicine, Smyrna, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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