Our bodies are comprised of an intricate network of blood vessels made up of veins and arteries. Arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to various parts of the body. As arteries carry blood to different organs and body parts, blood loses oxygen and must be returned to the heart. Veins are the blood vessels that return blood to the heart.
Within each vein are tiny, flap-like valves that direct the flow of blood in one direction (back to the heart). If blood attempts to move in the wrong direction the valves close, preventing backward flow. This backward flow is also referred to as “reflux” or “insufficiency”.
With age, injury, or genetic predisposition, vein walls and valves can become weakened or damaged, resulting in blood flow issues that yield painful or uncomfortable symptoms. Because gravity works against the lower extremities, vein disease in legs occurs more frequently than in other areas of the body.
One of the most common vein diseases is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI is a progressive vein disease that requires professional medical treatment. Several treatment options are available for individuals suffering from vein diseases like CVI, including conservative and minimally invasive therapies.
Schedule a consultation to find out if your symptoms are related to CVI and learn more about the treatment options available to you.