CHRONIC VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY

Chronic venous insufficiency (IVC) is a condition that occurs when the venous valves in the legs are not working effectively or when there is an obstruction of the venous drainage so it is difficult for blood to return to the heart causing blood to build up in the veins. (was).

It is basically a difficult situation for venous return, regardless of posture and activity.

The prevalence is between 50 and 70% (women 63-64%, and men 36-37%).

There is a marked increase in the prevalence of signs and symptoms of IVC due to the aging population.

 

IVC stages

Stage 1. Increased relief and increased coloration in the veins, varicose veins appear. The patient does not usually experience discomfort.

Stage 2. Intense pain, heaviness or cramping in the legs, itching and tingling, pain that gets worse when standing, pain that improves when lifting the legs and swelling in them. Usually these symptoms are more noticeable in hot weather or in situations of prolonged standing and worsen during pregnancy. Edema occurs, which worsens especially in the afternoon and improves with night rest. Tissue damage also occurs enhancing the painful sensation.

Stage 3. Dermatological manifestations: blackish brown pigmentation in the ankle, alteration of the capillaries, itching and atrophy in the skin.

Stage 4. Presence of varicose ulcer that usually suppurates pathological tissue. For its healing a strong compressive bandage, drainage and a thorough cleaning of the wound are advised.

 

Symptoms

   ●  Swelling in the legs and ankles, especially after long periods of standing.

   ●  Nonspecific pain and / or fatigue in the legs.

   ●  Varicose veins, varicose veins, chambers.

   ●  Sensation of tingling, heat or cold.

   ●  Eczema / Dermatitis of ecstasy.

   ●  Edema in the affected limb.

   ●  Exfoliation or itching of the skin on the legs or feet.

   ●  Ulcers.

   ●  Change in skin coloration. The grayish or brownish blue coloration is characteristic.

 

 

Risk factors for chronic venous insufficiency

   ●  Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

   ●  Venous hypertension is critical in the development of IVC

   ●  Varicose veins or a family history of varicose veins

   ●  The sedentary life

   ●  Family history

   ●  Obesity and / or overweight

   ●  Pregnancy

   ●  Tobacco

   ●  Prolonged periods of standing or sitting

   ●  The female sex

   ●  Age over 50

 

How is IVC diagnosed?

The assessment from Primary Care must be aimed at:

   ●  Define the type of venous disease

   ●  Evolutionary stage

   ●  Discard other possible etiologies

   ●  Establish the degree of disability and impact on quality of life.

 

1º Anamnesis; that is, review the patient's medical history.

2º Physical Examination:

   ●  Assessment with the standing patient

   ●  Exploration of mobility and gait

   ●  Palpation of arterial pulses, which should be constant along with the measurement of blood pressure, and look for data of complications or neuropathy.

   ●  Doppler ultrasound

 

Complementary tests:

 

Doppler ultrasonography: It combines ultrasound (which allows us to see the anatomy of the venous system), with doppler (which gives us information on the speed and direction of flow).

Plestimography: It measures the basal volume of venous blood in the lower limbs.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Please note that the information provided by AGL is general information only. It is not intended to be legal, medical or professional advice, and should not be used as a substitute for consultations with qualified professionals who are familiar with your individual needs.

en_GBEnglish (UK)