Understanding Venous Reflux: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Options

Venous reflux, also known as venous insufficiency, is a medical condition that occurs when the veins in the legs are not able to effectively transport blood back to the heart. This can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, such as swelling, pain, and skin changes. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for venous reflux.

What Are The Causes of Venous Reflux?

Venous reflux is caused by damage to the valves in the veins of the legs. These valves are responsible for preventing blood from flowing backward as it travels up the legs toward the heart. When these valves are damaged, blood can flow backward and accumulate in the lower legs, leading to the symptoms of venous reflux.

There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing venous reflux. These include:

• Age: As we get older, the valves in our veins can become weaker and less able to prevent blood from flowing backward.
• Family history: If other members of your family have had venous reflux, you may be more likely to develop it as well.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the volume of blood in the body increases, which can put pressure on the veins and lead to valve damage. You can read more about the relationship between pregnancy and vein diseases.
• Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the veins and increase the risk of valve damage.
• Lack of physical activity: When we don’t move around enough, blood can pool in the legs and increase the risk of valve damage. You can combat vein disease with exercise.
• Standing or sitting for long periods of time: Jobs that require standing or sitting for extended periods can increase the risk of venous reflux.

What Are The Symptoms of Venous Reflux?

The symptoms of venous reflux can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

• Swelling in the legs or ankles
• Pain or aching in the legs, especially after standing or sitting for long periods
• Skin changes, such as redness or discoloration
• Itching or burning in the legs
• Cramping in the legs
• Varicose veins, which are swollen, twisted veins that are visible under the skin

How Does The Doctor Diagnose Venous Reflux?

To diagnose venous reflux, your doctor may perform a physical exam, which may include checking for swelling, discoloration, or varicose veins. Your doctor may also perform an ultrasound vein mapping procedure, which uses sound waves to create images of the veins in your legs. This test can help determine if there is any blood flow in the wrong direction.

If you are experiencing symptoms of venous reflux, your doctor may perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history. 

What Is The Treatment For Venous Reflux?

There are several treatment options available for venous reflux, depending on the severity of the condition. Some common treatments include:

• Compression stockings: These special stockings are designed to help improve blood flow in the legs and reduce swelling and pain.
• Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your lifestyle, such as losing weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding long periods of standing or sitting, can help improve symptoms of venous reflux.
• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
• Sclerotherapy: This procedure involves injecting a solution into the damaged vein to seal it off and reroute blood flow.

Get Your Spider Veins Treated by an Experienced Vein Specialist at Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center in Westminster, Co.

If you are experiencing symptoms of venous reflux then we have the right treatment for you. Dr. Pinsinski in Westminster has administered countless successful vein treatments that will free you from the pain and discomfort of venous reflux. To see what can be done about your condition, book an appointment with Dr. Pinsinski today.

Dr. David Pinsinski

Dr. David L. Pinsinski is the esteemed founder of Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center, an expert in the field of vein care, and a distinguished board-certified physician in Internal Medicine. With a dedicated career focused on promoting health and well-being, Dr. Pinsinski has become a trusted name in the vein care community serving Westminster, Co area. His commitment to excellence and compassionate patient care is at the core of his practice. Dr. Pinsinski’s work at Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center is a testament to his unwavering dedication to providing the highest standard of vein care, making positive impact on patients’ lives so that they can enjoy Colorado’s beautiful nature and outdoor lifestyle.