Venous Insufficiency

Venous Insufficiency is a general term used to describe disorders relating to the abnormal return of venous blood. Leaking valves (called reflux), blocked veins, failure of the leg muscles to pump the blood, or a combination of these factors can lead to venous insufficiency. Impaired return of blood to the heart results in pooling of blood and increased pressure in one or more of the deep, superficial or perforating vein systems. The signs and symptoms of venous insufficiency are variable and are determined by the location, extent and duration of damage to the veins. Doctors will classify venous insufficiency based on signs of vein or skin damage, location and cause.

Venous insufficiency is very common and affects up to 30% of adult women and 20% of adult men. Most will have early stage or mild cases such as spider veins or varicose veins. Severe or later stage venous insufficiency is less common, but far more troublesome as it can lead to painful swelling of the legs, changes in the skin colour and open sores (called "stasis ulcers")

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