Could My Swollen Legs Mean It’s Venous Insufficiency?

Venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in your arms and legs struggle to return blood to your heart. The result is blood pooling, especially in your legs, leading to uncomfortable symptoms.

Leg swelling doesn’t always mean venous insufficiency, but it’s a definite possibility. If you’re worried about leg swelling, our team at the Vein, Heart, and Vascular Institute has treatments to help.

Dr. Hesham Fakhri is an experienced heart and vascular care specialist who provides a range of vein treatments, including compression therapy and vein stenting.

Causes of leg swelling

Leg swelling can result from many causes, most of which are not a major concern. But any swelling can be worrisome, especially if accompanied by additional symptoms.

Knowing the cause of leg swelling helps us choose the right treatment. Common causes include:

Fluid buildup

Edema, or fluid buildup, is the most common cause of leg swelling. It can happen for many reasons, including sitting too long, being overweight, or having kidney and heart issues.

Cardiac issues

Congestive heart failure is a condition that causes the heart to inefficiently pump blood to the tissues, resulting in blood pooling in the legs. It usually causes other symptoms, including shortness of breath and fatigue.

Kidney or liver issues

The kidneys regulate fluid balance in the body. When they aren’t functioning properly, leg edema can result. Cirrhosis of the liver can also contribute to leg swelling.

Injury

Injuries to your legs or inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can cause fluid to build up in the legs. Infection also leads to swelling, redness, and warmth.

Lymphatic issues

Chronic venous insufficiency is a major cause of leg swelling when the veins don’t effectively return blood to the heart. Problems within the lymph system also lead to issues.

Lifestyle factors

Mild or temporary leg swelling can result from lifestyle factors, such as prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, or tight clothing.

Signs of venous insufficiency

Venous insufficiency is one of many causes of leg swelling, but it may also cause aching, heaviness, or a feeling of fullness in the legs. When blood pools in your legs, look for signs that typically indicate venous insufficiency, including:

• Nocturnal leg cramps
• Numbness or tingling
• Skin discoloration
• Tired and achy legs
• Swelling in the feet and ankles
• Burning or a pins-and-needles sensation

People with venous insufficiency may also develop skin that becomes thick, tough, or leathery. Additionally, open sores that heal slowly, persistent itching, and prominent varicose veins may appear over time.

What are the next steps?

Persistent leg swelling is a cause for concern, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. Dr. Fakhri evaluates your legs to determine the cause and proper treatment.

He may perform a venous ultrasound or other imaging to help with a definitive diagnosis. The next steps include lifestyle changes such as losing weight, engaging in regular low-impact exercise, and elevating your legs while sitting.

If needed, compression therapy comes next, using special stockings to help move blood back to the heart.

Nonsurgical treatments like sclerotherapy and endovenous ablation are successful for those with significant venous insufficiency. Surgical options are available for conditions that don’t respond to other therapies.

Contact us today or reach out online to arrange your consultation at our Tampa, Wesley Chapel, or Sun City, Florida, locations. We’re here to help you address leg swelling and improve your quality of life.