Latest news with #CVI
CNET
an hour ago
- Health
- CNET
Chronic Venous Insufficiency: A Vein Specialist on Causes and Symptoms for Trump's Diagnosis
In a July 17 memo from Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, the president's doctor, Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency or CVI. According to Barbabella, this diagnosis is common, especially in older adults over the age of 70 (Trump is 79), and "benign." As for the bruising that has been seen on the back of Trump's hand, his doctor states that it's a separate condition caused by him frequently shaking hands while also being a benign side effect of him taking aspirin. Though Barbabella's memo concluded that "President Trump remains in excellent health," we wanted to know more about CVI and if it's as benign as it's been made to seem. To learn more about chronic venous insufficiency's potential causes, symptoms and treatment, we reached out to Khanh Nguyen, DO, chief medical officer of the Center for Vein Restoration. What is chronic venous insufficiency? Chronic venous insufficiency is when your legs' veins don't work as well as they should. "Normally, veins have small valves that help keep blood flowing back up toward the heart," explains Nguyen, who is not involved in Trump's case but has treated patients for CVI. "But if those valves become weak or damaged, blood can start to pool in the legs instead of moving upward like it should." Chronic venous insufficiency causes The most common causes of CVI, according to Nguyen, are: Aging : "As we get older, our veins and valves naturally weaken." : "As we get older, our veins and valves naturally weaken." Family history : "If close family members have vein problems, you're more likely to develop them, too. Genetics play a significant role in developing venous disease." : "If close family members have vein problems, you're more likely to develop them, too. Genetics play a significant role in developing venous disease." Being overweight : "Extra weight puts more pressure on the veins in your legs." : "Extra weight puts more pressure on the veins in your legs." Sitting or standing for long periods : "This makes it harder for blood to move out of the legs, especially without movement. Blood is constantly fighting against gravity to return to the heart, so walking and activating the calf muscle helps the blood to be pumped back." : "This makes it harder for blood to move out of the legs, especially without movement. Blood is constantly fighting against gravity to return to the heart, so walking and activating the calf muscle helps the blood to be pumped back." Pregnancy : "Increased blood volume and hormone changes can put a strain on the venous system. In addition, the enlarged fetus and uterus also put pressure on the abdomen and pelvis, compressing the veins and impeding blood return, further increasing venous hypertension." : "Increased blood volume and hormone changes can put a strain on the venous system. In addition, the enlarged fetus and uterus also put pressure on the abdomen and pelvis, compressing the veins and impeding blood return, further increasing venous hypertension." Previous blood clots: "A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can damage vein valves and puts a patient at higher risk for developing venous disease." DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the body's deep veins, typically in the legs. These various factors can cause an increase in pressure in the leg veins over time, contributing to venous insufficiency. However, Nguyen states that early treatment and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and prevent worsening conditions. Chronic venous insufficiency symptoms While CVI symptoms can vary, Nguyen lists common ones as: leg swelling, heaviness, aching, throbbing, restless legs and cramping. Many patients also notice varicose veins and skin changes like darkening or itching around the ankles. In advanced cases, you may even see venous ulcers or open wounds near the lower legs. "Symptoms often worsen after prolonged periods of standing or sitting and improve with leg elevation and the use of compression stockings," states Nguyen. PonyWang/Getty Images Is chronic venous insufficiency 'benign'? Though Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, Trump's doctor, claims CVI is "benign," Nguyen says that's not the full picture. "While CVI is often labeled 'benign' because it's not life-threatening like arterial disease, it's not a harmless condition," he says. "Left untreated, it can significantly impact quality of life and lead to complications like chronic pain, skin changes, venous ulcers and potentially blood clots." In other words, chronic venous insufficiency isn't something you should ignore. "It's a medical issue that warrants expert attention and treatment, particularly because early intervention can help prevent its progression," Nguyen explains. Chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis "CVI is typically diagnosed by taking a thorough history and performing a physical examination followed by a duplex ultrasound, a noninvasive imaging test that visualizes blood flow and evaluates the function of the veins and their valves," says Nguyen. This test allows doctors to confirm venous reflux (when veins struggle to circulate blood back to the heart) and rule out other conditions like deep vein thrombosis. Chronic venous insufficiency treatment Nguyen reports that CVI is treated with a combination of the following: compression therapy, lifestyle changes and minimally invasive procedures that close off or redirect blood flow from malfunctioning veins. "Today's advanced outpatient treatments typically take under an hour to complete, require little to no downtime, and are covered by insurance when medically necessary," he explains. "Patients can return to their normal routine immediately, with few restrictions." Early CVI diagnosis and treatment are key According to Nguyen, one of the biggest challenges with CVI is that people ignore early symptoms, writing them off as fatigue or aging. This is especially concerning because CVI is treatable, thanks to modern therapies that are effective, safe and fast. "If you're experiencing leg discomfort, swelling or visible veins, don't wait -- early diagnosis and treatment can make a tremendous difference in your longterm leg health and comfort," concludes Nguyen.
CNET
a day ago
- Health
- CNET
Trump's Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Potential Causes and Symptoms, According to a Vein Specialist
In a July 17 memo from Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, the president's doctor, Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency or CVI. According to Barbabella, this diagnosis is common, especially in older adults over the age of 70 (Trump is 79), and "benign." While Barbabella's memo concluded that "President Trump remains in excellent health," we wanted to know more about CVI and if it's as benign as it's been made to seem. To learn more about chronic venous insufficiency's potential causes, symptoms and treatment, we reached out to Khanh Nguyen, DO, chief medical officer of the Center for Vein Restoration. What is chronic venous insufficiency? Chronic venous insufficiency is when your legs' veins don't work as well as they should. "Normally, veins have small valves that help keep blood flowing back up toward the heart," explains Nguyen, who is not involved in Trump's case but has treated patients for CVI. "But if those valves become weak or damaged, blood can start to pool in the legs instead of moving upward like it should." Chronic venous insufficiency causes The most common causes of CVI, according to Nguyen, are: Aging : "As we get older, our veins and valves naturally weaken." : "As we get older, our veins and valves naturally weaken." Family history : "If close family members have vein problems, you're more likely to develop them, too. Genetics play a significant role in developing venous disease." : "If close family members have vein problems, you're more likely to develop them, too. Genetics play a significant role in developing venous disease." Being overweight : "Extra weight puts more pressure on the veins in your legs." : "Extra weight puts more pressure on the veins in your legs." Sitting or standing for long periods : "This makes it harder for blood to move out of the legs, especially without movement. Blood is constantly fighting against gravity to return to the heart, so walking and activating the calf muscle helps the blood to be pumped back." : "This makes it harder for blood to move out of the legs, especially without movement. Blood is constantly fighting against gravity to return to the heart, so walking and activating the calf muscle helps the blood to be pumped back." Pregnancy : "Increased blood volume and hormone changes can put a strain on the venous system. In addition, the enlarged fetus and uterus also put pressure on the abdomen and pelvis, compressing the veins and impeding blood return, further increasing venous hypertension." : "Increased blood volume and hormone changes can put a strain on the venous system. In addition, the enlarged fetus and uterus also put pressure on the abdomen and pelvis, compressing the veins and impeding blood return, further increasing venous hypertension." Previous blood clots: "A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can damage vein valves and puts a patient at higher risk for developing venous disease." DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the body's deep veins, typically in the legs. These various factors can cause an increase in pressure in the leg veins over time, contributing to venous insufficiency. However, Nguyen states that early treatment and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and prevent worsening conditions. Chronic venous insufficiency symptoms While CVI symptoms can vary, Nguyen lists common ones as: leg swelling, heaviness, aching, throbbing, restless legs and cramping. Many patients also notice varicose veins and skin changes like darkening or itching around the ankles. In advanced cases, you may even see venous ulcers or open wounds near the lower legs. "Symptoms often worsen after prolonged periods of standing or sitting and improve with leg elevation and the use of compression stockings," states Nguyen. PonyWang/Getty Images Is chronic venous insufficiency 'benign'? Though Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, Trump's doctor, claims CVI is "benign," Nguyen says that's not the full picture. "While CVI is often labeled 'benign' because it's not life-threatening like arterial disease, it's not a harmless condition," he says. "Left untreated, it can significantly impact quality of life and lead to complications like chronic pain, skin changes, venous ulcers and potentially blood clots." In other words, chronic venous insufficiency isn't something you should ignore. "It's a medical issue that warrants expert attention and treatment, particularly because early intervention can help prevent its progression," Nguyen explains. Chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis "CVI is typically diagnosed by taking a thorough history and performing a physical examination followed by a duplex ultrasound, a noninvasive imaging test that visualizes blood flow and evaluates the function of the veins and their valves," says Nguyen. This test allows doctors to confirm venous reflux (when veins struggle to circulate blood back to the heart) and rule out other conditions like deep vein thrombosis. Chronic venous insufficiency treatment Nguyen reports that CVI is treated with a combination of the following: compression therapy, lifestyle changes and minimally invasive procedures that close off or redirect blood flow from malfunctioning veins. "Today's advanced outpatient treatments typically take under an hour to complete, require little to no downtime, and are covered by insurance when medically necessary," he explains. "Patients can return to their normal routine immediately, with few restrictions." Early CVI diagnosis and treatment are key According to Nguyen, one of the biggest challenges with CVI is that people ignore early symptoms, writing them off as fatigue or aging. This is especially concerning because CVI is treatable, thanks to modern therapies that are effective, safe and fast. "If you're experiencing leg discomfort, swelling or visible veins, don't wait -- early diagnosis and treatment can make a tremendous difference in your longterm leg health and comfort," concludes Nguyen.
Medical News Today
a day ago
- Health
- Medical News Today
Trump's chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis 'extremely common' in older adults
U.S. President Donald Trump was recently diagnosed with a condition called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).The condition can be uncomfortable or painful, although it is not considered a serious medical condition and is News Today spoke to two medical experts to learn more about CVI, health complications related to it, and how to reduce risks of developing the Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), which leads to symptoms such as swelling, pain, and skin discoloration due to blood pooling in the legs and damaging official announcement came July 17 from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who said the 79-year-old president had 'mild swelling in his lower legs,' which led to further tests and examination.'The president underwent a comprehensive examination including diagnostic vascular studies. Bilateral lower extremity intravenous doppler ultrasounds were performed and revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70,' Leavitt concerns, CVI can be treated and is quite common in older adults, affecting about 10 to 35% of adults in the United White House also said there was no evidence of deep vein thrombosis, a serious life-threatening condition, and that an echocardiogram (ECG) showed his heart was functioning normally. So, what are the first signs of CVI and how can one reduce their risk? Are there any treatments for CVI? To learn more about this condition, Medical News Today spoke to two experts — Cheng-Han Chen, MD, board certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA, and Christopher Yi, MD, board certified vascular surgeon at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA to answer these questions and are the first signs of CVI?The way Trump presented with mild swelling (edema) in his legs is often the first sign of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). 'Chronic venous insufficiency typically first manifests as swelling in the legs and ankles/feet, particularly after sitting or standing for a long time. People also sometimes feel a 'heaviness' or aching in the legs. Some people might also notice varicose veins in the leg associated with this condition,' Chen said. People often notice discomfort or aching that worsens after long periods of standing or sitting. Other early signs can include mild skin changes, such as dryness or itchiness, and the appearance of small varicose or spider veins,' Yi CVI life threatening?Although blood pooling in legs can sound worrying, this condition is common in older adults, and with timely treatment, risks of complications can be greatly reduced.'This condition is extremely common in the population, with some estimates that up to 40% of Americans are affected,' Chen said. 'For most people, chronic venous insufficiency will be benign, but it can become more serious if left untreated. Some complications of untreated chronic venous insufficiency include ulcers, pain, and skin changes,' he continued.'It is generally not life-threatening but can progress if left untreated, leading to complications such as severe swelling, skin changes, venous ulcers, and an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT),' Yi increases the risk of CVI?A variety of factors, such as not engaging in enough physical activity, smoking, and having obesity or overweight can increase a person's risk of developing CVI.'Risk factors include advanced age, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged standing or sitting, family history of venous disease, prior leg injuries or blood clots, pregnancy, and smoking. Men can develop CVI, but it is slightly more common in women,' Yi is CVI treated?Although Trump's medical records show that he takes aspirin, a blood thinner, this is likely for cardiac prevention, and not CVI, experts say.'Aspirin is not a primary treatment for chronic venous insufficiency. It is sometimes prescribed for other cardiovascular reasons, such as reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke, but it does not significantly improve venous circulation or relieve CVI symptoms,' Yi explained.'Aspirin is sometimes used to help venous ulcers heal, but is not considered a first-line treatment for chronic venous insufficiency,' Chen said.'Compression therapy and lifestyle measures are far more effective,' Yi changes can lessen symptomsYi said that wearing compression stockings was one of the most effective strategies for treating CVI as it helps blood flow back toward the heart. 'Lifestyle changes are also important, including regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and elevating the legs above heart level for short periods throughout the day. It's helpful to avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and when possible, take breaks to walk or flex the ankles to encourage blood flow. Good skin care is essential to prevent irritation, dryness, or breakdown that can occur with poor circulation,' Yi lifestyle changes may not be enough to improve symptoms, doctors may also prescribe some medical procedures.'These can include medications, such as venoactive agents, which can help reduce symptoms. For more advanced cases, minimally invasive procedures like endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation, sclerotherapy, or even surgical vein stripping may be performed to close or remove damaged veins and restore better circulation,' said Yi.'We typically recommend lifestyle modifications such as elevating the legs, wearing compression stockings, increasing physical activity, and losing weight. For more serious cases, minimally invasive procedures such as ablation and sclerotherapy can be helpful in alleviating symptoms.'— Cheng-Han Chen, MD
Medscape
a day ago
- Health
- Medscape
Can New Treatments Overcome Compliance Issues in CVI?
President Donald Trump's recent diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) briefly brought a little-known but common circulatory disorder into the national spotlight. It also underscored a persistent problem that as many as 40% of US adults quietly face: the difficulty of adhering to treatment that is simple in theory but complicated in practice. CVI occurs when veins in the legs struggle to return blood back to the heart, leading to swelling, pain, skin changes, and, in some cases, ulcers. According to the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions, first-line treatments include compression therapy, leg elevation, exercise, and weight management. Yet many patients abandon therapy early, either due to discomfort, physical limitations, confusion about the disease, or a frustrating cycle of delayed diagnosis and inaccessible specialty care. Leigh Ann O'Banion, MD 'Chronic venous insufficiency is a widespread but often underrecognized condition that, when left untreated, can lead to significant morbidity,' said Leigh Ann O'Banion, MD, associate clinical professor of vascular surgery at the University of California San Francisco Fresno. As awareness of CVI grows, experts say improving compliance may finally be possible, thanks to smarter technology, more patient-friendly devices, and greater focus on early, proactive care. Why so Difficult? Compression stockings are a cornerstone of CVI management. They work by reducing pressure in leg veins and help prevent blood pooling. But for many, they're also a dealbreaker — notoriously uncomfortable, difficult to put on, and hard to tolerate in hot or humid weather. Naomi Hamburg, MD 'Adherence can be challenging, especially in people with reduced mobility including older adults and people with obesity,' said Naomi Hamburg, MD, interim director of the Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute at the Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and an attending in the cardiovascular medicine section at Boston Medical Center, both in Boston. 'There are alternatives, including Velcro wraps and compression pumps, that may help, but even those require instruction and support.' Misunderstanding the disease also plays a role in noncompliance, according to Joshua Beckman, MD, past volunteer chair of the American Heart Association's Vascular Health Advisory Committee and current chief of vascular medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center, both in Dallas. 'I find that patients don't understand how veins work,' Beckman said. 'Once they understand why swelling occurs, it becomes easier to explain why compression garments and leg elevation overnight help combat the higher pressures in the veins.' But even with education, many patients struggle with the fact that compression therapy doesn't cure the condition. 'Compression therapy helps reduce symptoms; it doesn't fix the underlying vein problem,' Hamburg said. When patients give up on compression, clinicians are often hesitant to pursue the next level of care, such as referral for interventional treatment, Hamburg said. 'Lack of use of compression therapy is not a reason for interventional procedures,' Hamburg said, 'because compression is still needed after interventions to have optimal results.' The frustrating cycle of low compliance, worsening symptoms, and reluctance to escalate care keeps many patients trapped in a state of chronic discomfort and progressive disease. Breaking the Bottleneck Breaking the compliance bottleneck will require more than one solution. 'I think most of what is coming are improvements in current types of therapy,' Beckman said — things like smart compression therapy devices that use miniaturized and lightweight actuators and electronics to control the applied pressure. Beckman also cited early-stage research using artificial intelligence to detect venous obstruction or reflux and surgical innovation involving deep vein valve replacements — still in development but showing promise. According to Hamburg, advances in fabric design could make compression garments easier to wear and tolerate, particularly in warm weather. She also highlighted studies exploring surgically implanted valves for deep veins, an option not currently available for most patients with severe CVI. New weight-loss medications may help play a role in some cases of CVI. Obesity is a common risk factor for CVI, Hamburg said, and new drugs for weight management may help people with obesity-related CVI. 'But we need more studies to understand this better,' she added. Front-Line Detectors Earlier detection is another key to breaking the compliance bottleneck, and primary care providers are often the first, and only, clinicians positioned to catch CVI early. 'Many doctors don't think about chronic venous insufficiency or don't know about the importance of it for patients,' Hamburg said. 'When I trained in internal medicine, I don't remember learning about it or how to treat it.' When swelling or skin changes suggest CVI, she encouraged clinicians to initiate compression therapy immediately before a referral or ultrasound. 'The first step is to take off socks and shoes and examine the legs,' she said. 'We get so much information from the legs about both arterial and venous circulation.' Beckman agreed. 'Early application of compression garments and leg elevation can reduce symptoms and slow progression,' he said. 'That first step, from a trusted provider, makes a huge difference.' Studies also suggest CVI may be linked to broader cardiovascular problems, such as peripheral artery disease and heart failure. 'I now routinely assess cardiovascular risk factors in patients with CVI,' she said. 'We need to think about venous health not in isolation but as part of whole-body cardiovascular health.' The path to specialty care, however, is not straightforward for all patients. Geographic isolation, sometimes referred to as 'vascular deserts,' and limited access to specialists, insurance hurdles, and transportation issues often stand in the way of early intervention. These access barriers can be particularly acute in underserved populations, said O'Banion, who also serves as the medical director for the Foundation to Advance Vascular Cures. 'Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs can also be prohibitive, especially for newer therapies. Systemic mistrust, lack of awareness, and logistical issues such as transportation or the inability to take time off work further complicate access,' she said. To bridge these gaps, O'Banion and her colleagues launched CHAMPIONS — the Comprehensive Heart and Multidisciplinary Limb Preservation Outreach Network. The program brings vascular screenings and education directly to community sites such as food banks, health fairs, and local events. 'CHAMPIONS often serves as the first and only point of contact with a vascular specialist for many individuals,' she said. When timely intervention is possible, patient outcomes improve significantly. According to O'Banion, patients who undergo endovenous ablation — especially newer, nonthermal, non-tumescent techniques — report faster recovery and higher satisfaction than those relying solely on compression. 'These newer technologies expand the number of patients eligible for outpatient care and reduce the discomfort, downtime, and risk associated with more invasive options,' she said. In both well-resourced and rural environments, O'Banion said, patients frequently present late in the disease course, often after extended periods of conservative management or missed opportunities for earlier diagnosis. 'Late-stage referrals are common,' she said. 'But when patients understand what's happening in their bodies and feel supported in managing it, they're much more likely to stick with treatment.' Experts said Trump's diagnosis may have temporarily brought CVI into the public eye, but the disease is likely affecting millions more silently. 'It also serves as a reminder that even individuals presumed to have the best medical care may fall through the cracks of delayed diagnosis,' O'Banion said. And as innovation continues, the burden of early detection and patient education still falls largely on frontline providers. 'CVI is not just a quality-of-life condition,' O'Banion said. 'It's a disease with real consequences. But with better tools and earlier action, we can improve outcomes for millions.' Beckman reported consulting for Medtronic. O'Banion reported receiving research grants and serving as a consultant for Abbott, Medtronic, Shockwave, Gore, Penumbra, and Reflow Medical. Hamburg reported having no relevant disclosures.
CNET
2 days ago
- Health
- CNET
Is Trump's Chronic Venous Insufficiency Diagnosis Actually 'Benign'? A Vein Specialist Weighs In
Last Thursday, July 17, the White House announced that President Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). According to a memo from Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, the president's physician, this diagnosis came after the president noticed mild swelling in his legs. However, Barbabella reports that CVI is "benign" and common in older adults over the age of 70. Trump is 79. Though the doctor's memo summarized that "President Trump remains in excellent health," we were curious to learn more about CVI and whether or not it's as benign as it's being made out to be. For that information, we contacted Khanh Nguyen, DO, chief medical officer of the Center for Vein Restoration. What is chronic venous insufficiency? Plus, CVI causes Chronic venous insufficiency is when your legs' veins don't work as well as they should. "Normally, veins have small valves that help keep blood flowing back up toward the heart," explains Nguyen. "But if those valves become weak or damaged, blood can start to pool in the legs instead of moving upward like it should." The most common causes of CVI, according to Nguyen, are: Aging : "As we get older, our veins and valves naturally weaken." : "As we get older, our veins and valves naturally weaken." Family history : "If close family members have vein problems, you're more likely to develop them, too. Genetics play a significant role in developing venous disease." : "If close family members have vein problems, you're more likely to develop them, too. Genetics play a significant role in developing venous disease." Being overweight : "Extra weight puts more pressure on the veins in your legs." : "Extra weight puts more pressure on the veins in your legs." Sitting or standing for long periods : "This makes it harder for blood to move out of the legs, especially without movement. Blood is constantly fighting against gravity to return to the heart, so walking and activating the calf muscle helps the blood to be pumped back." : "This makes it harder for blood to move out of the legs, especially without movement. Blood is constantly fighting against gravity to return to the heart, so walking and activating the calf muscle helps the blood to be pumped back." Pregnancy : "Increased blood volume and hormone changes can put a strain on the venous system. In addition, the enlarged fetus and uterus also put pressure on the abdomen and pelvis, compressing the veins and impeding blood return, further increasing venous hypertension." : "Increased blood volume and hormone changes can put a strain on the venous system. In addition, the enlarged fetus and uterus also put pressure on the abdomen and pelvis, compressing the veins and impeding blood return, further increasing venous hypertension." Previous blood clots: "A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can damage vein valves and puts a patient at higher risk for developing venous disease." DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the body's deep veins, typically in the legs. These various factors can cause an increase in pressure in the leg veins over time, contributing to venous insufficiency. However, Nguyen states that early treatment and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and prevent worsening conditions. Chronic venous insufficiency symptoms While CVI symptoms can vary, Nguyen lists common ones as: leg swelling, heaviness, aching, throbbing, restless legs and cramping. Many patients also notice varicose veins and skin changes like darkening or itching around the ankles. In advanced cases, you may even see venous ulcers or open wounds near the lower legs. "Symptoms often worsen after prolonged periods of standing or sitting and improve with leg elevation and the use of compression stockings," states Nguyen. PonyWang/Getty Images Is it true that chronic venous insufficiency is 'benign'? Though Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, Trump's doctor, claims CVI is "benign," Nguyen says that's not the full picture. "While CVI is often labeled 'benign' because it's not life-threatening like arterial disease, it's not a harmless condition," he says. "Left untreated, it can significantly impact quality of life and lead to complications like chronic pain, skin changes, venous ulcers and potentially blood clots." In other words, chronic venous insufficiency isn't something you should ignore. "It's a medical issue that warrants expert attention and treatment, particularly because early intervention can help prevent its progression," Nguyen explains. How is chronic venous insufficiency diagnosed? "CVI is typically diagnosed by taking a thorough history and performing a physical examination followed by a duplex ultrasound, a noninvasive imaging test that visualizes blood flow and evaluates the function of the veins and their valves," says Nguyen. This test allows doctors to confirm venous reflux (when veins struggle to circulate blood back to the heart) and rule out other conditions like deep vein thrombosis. How is chronic venous insufficiency treated? Nguyen reports that CVI is treated with a combination of the following: compression therapy, lifestyle changes and minimally invasive procedures that close off or redirect blood flow from malfunctioning veins. "Today's advanced outpatient treatments typically take under an hour to complete, require little to no downtime, and are covered by insurance when medically necessary," he explains. "Patients can return to their normal routine immediately, with few restrictions." Early CVI diagnosis and treatment are key According to Nguyen, one of the biggest challenges with CVI is that people ignore early symptoms, writing them off as fatigue or aging. This is especially concerning because CVI is treatable, thanks to modern therapies that are effective, safe and fast. "If you're experiencing leg discomfort, swelling or visible veins, don't wait -- early diagnosis and treatment can make a tremendous difference in your longterm leg health and comfort," concludes Nguyen.
