Impaired venous return of blood from the legs to the heart may cause swelling, heaviness and skin changes.
When to seek emergency care
If any of the following signs occur, call +994 50 808 30 03 immediately — do not wait for a routine appointment:
- Sudden swelling and pain in one leg
- Infected ulcer
- Shortness of breath and chest pain
- Bleeding varicose vein
What is it?
The problem is not merely cosmetic. Pain, swelling, itching and the risk of ulcers may seriously restrict a patient’s daily life.
Symptoms
- Leg heaviness
- Ankle swelling
- Varicose veins
- Itching
- Skin darkening
- Slow-healing wound
Causes & risk factors
- Family history
- Long periods of standing
- Excess weight
- Pregnancy
- Age
- Previous thrombosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis should not rely on one test alone. Symptoms, risk factors, physical examination and investigation results are interpreted together.
- Venous Doppler
- Clinical examination
- Skin and ulcer assessment
- Excluding arterial disease
- Checking for thrombosis
Treatment approaches
Treatment is individualized according to the severity of the disease, the patient’s overall condition, coexisting diseases and procedural risk.
- Compression
- Weight and activity plan
- Endovenous laser/radiofrequency
- Sclerotherapy
- Surgery in selected cases
- Wound care
How we help
Venous insufficiency is confirmed by Doppler and reflux mapping. Treatment is selected according to symptoms, vein map and arterial status.
When a procedure may be needed
Endovenous treatment may be needed when reflux is confirmed and pain, swelling, skin changes or ulcer risk persist.
Patient checklist
- Choose compression stockings with medical guidance
- Break up long periods of sitting and standing
- Elevate the legs
- Do not delay seeking care for skin changes
FAQ
Is venous insufficiency the same as varicose veins?
Varicose veins may be one visible form of venous insufficiency, but the deep and superficial veins are assessed separately.
Are compression stockings suitable for everyone?
No. Caution is required when arterial disease is present.
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