Guide to Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition in which the valves in the leg veins do not function properly, and the return circulation of blood to the heart is impaired.
Symptoms of CVI may include:
- Varicose veins
- Leg ulcers
- Itching (pruritis)
- Hyperpigmentation (dark discoloration of the skin)
- Swelling of the legs and ankles
- Skin abnormalities including eczema, thickening, increased risk of infection, and inflammation.
- Pain while walking
Causes of CVI
Risk factors include the same factors that predispose people to spider veins and varicose veins:
- A history of blood clots
- Family history
- Hormonal factors
- Advancing age
- Being overweight or obese
- Prolonged standing
- Prolonged sitting with legs crossed
- Wearing tight undergarments or clothes
- A history of blood clots
- Injury to the veins
Chronic venous insufficiency may also be caused by factors including:
- Damage to the valves in the veins from injury
- Clots in the veins
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Phlebitis (inflammation of a superficial vein)
- Inherited clotting disorders
Next Steps
If you are in need of help for a vascular condition, we’re here for you. Call us now at (646) 317-8282 or fill out our online form to get started today.
Related Topics
- Aortic Aneurysm
- Carotid Artery Disease
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
- Minimally Invasive Vein Surgery
- Pelvic Vein Disease
- Peripheral Arterial Disease
- Renal & Mesenteric Arterial Occlusive Disease
- Sclerotherapy for Vein Disease
- Spider Veins
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (Vascular)
- Thrombophlebitis
- Varicose Veins
- Vein Disease Overview
- Venous Leg Ulcers
This content has been created by Columbia’s Health Guide Team. Learn more about our efforts to bring you the clearest, most accurate, and most human health resources available.