Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common vein condition in which the veins in the legs become damaged or weakened, impairing their ability to efficiently return blood back to the heart. Instead of flowing upward, blood may pool in the legs, leading to symptoms such as swelling, heaviness, aching, and visible varicose veins. Over time, untreated CVI can cause more serious complications, including skin changes, leg ulcers, and the formation of blood clots.
One of the most concerning risks associated with CVI is the development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — a serious condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. DVT can become life-threatening if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism.
Understanding the relationship between vein health and blood clots is essential for anyone managing CVI. The good news is that with proactive care and medical guidance, blood clots can often be prevented.
How Do Blood Clots Form?
Blood clots are clumps of blood that have changed from a liquid to a gel-like or semi-solid state. While clotting is a normal process that prevents excessive bleeding when you’re injured, abnormal clot formation can occur inside blood vessels, where it can restrict or block blood flow.
In patients with CVI, poor circulation and stagnant blood flow increase the risk of clotting. The damaged vein valves that define CVI cause blood to pool in the lower extremities. When blood isn’t moving properly, it’s more likely to clot. Over time, this raises the risk of DVT.
Why Are Blood Clots Dangerous?
Not all blood clots cause symptoms, but when they do, they can result in:
- Swelling in one leg (or arm)
- Pain or tenderness not caused by injury
- Skin that feels warm to the touch
- Red or discolored skin
If a blood clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal condition that blocks blood flow to the lungs.
Symptoms of PE include:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain that may get worse with deep breaths
- Rapid heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or fainting
A pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate care.
How to Prevent Blood Clots if You Have CVI
If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, here are key steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing blood clots:
1. Stay Physically Active
Regular movement is crucial for encouraging healthy blood flow, especially in the lower legs. When you walk, calf muscles contract and help pump blood back toward the heart.
Aim for 30 minutes of walking or low-impact exercise most days of the week. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods. Take movement breaks every 30 to 60 minutes.
2. Wear Compression Stockings
Compression stockings gently squeeze the legs to support vein function and improve blood return. They help reduce swelling and minimize blood pooling, which can decrease the likelihood of clots forming. Your vein specialist can recommend the right level of compression for your needs.
3. Elevate Your Legs
When resting, try to elevate your legs above the level of your heart for 15 to 30 minutes a few times a day. This helps reduce swelling and encourages blood flow out of the legs.
4. Hydrate and Maintain a Healthy Diet
Drinking plenty of water helps keep blood from becoming too thick. A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods — such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids — can support vascular health and lower clotting risk.
5. Take Prescribed Medications
If you’re at high risk for clots, your healthcare provider may prescribe blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants). These medications reduce the blood’s ability to clot and may also be used if you’ve already experienced a DVT. Always take medications as directed and notify your doctor of any side effects.
6. Know the Warning Signs
Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of DVT and PE. Early detection can prevent serious complications. If you notice unusual leg pain, swelling, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately.
Treatment Options for Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Preventing blood clots is just one part of managing CVI. Treating the underlying vein issues can dramatically improve circulation and lower the risk of complications.
At United Vein & Vascular Centers, we offer several minimally invasive treatment options to address CVI, including:
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
This image-guided procedure uses a thin laser fiber to heat and seal the damaged vein. Blood is naturally rerouted to nearby healthy veins. EVLA is quick, requires little downtime, and can significantly reduce symptoms of CVI.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Similar to EVLA, RFA uses radiofrequency energy to close diseased veins. It’s an effective and safe option that provides long-term symptom relief.
Microphlebectomy
This procedure removes varicose veins through tiny punctures in the skin. It’s typically done in-office under local anesthesia and results in minimal scarring.
Why Prompt Treatment Matters
Without treatment, CVI can progress, increasing the likelihood of complications like leg ulcers, skin infections, and blood clots. The longer blood pools in the veins, the greater the risk. That’s why early intervention — whether through lifestyle changes, compression therapy, or medical procedures — is so important.
Partner with a Vein Specialist
At United Vein & Vascular Centers, we specialize in diagnosing and treating vein conditions like CVI with compassion and expertise. If you’ve been struggling with symptoms such as leg swelling, pain, or visible veins, or if you have a history of blood clots, we can help you take proactive steps to improve your vascular health.
When you meet with our team, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan designed to:
- Improve blood circulation
- Reduce your risk of blood clots and other complications
- Help you move more freely and comfortably
- Enhance your long-term quality of life
Let’s Take the Next Step — Together
Whether you’re newly diagnosed with CVI or have been living with vein issues for years, know that you’re not alone. Our mission is to help you feel better, live more actively, and reduce your health risks.
With over 45 locations across Arizona, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, and Texas, we make it easy to access expert vein care close to home.
Don’t wait to prioritize your vein health. Contact United Vein & Vascular Centers today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward safer circulation and stronger vascular health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Chronic venous insufficiency can increase your risk of developing blood clots, particularly deep vein thrombosis, due to poor blood flow in the legs.
In severe, untreated cases, CVI can lead to serious complications like non-healing ulcers or infections that may threaten limb health. However, this is rare and preventable with proper care.
Yes. CVI is a known risk factor for DVT because damaged veins can lead to blood pooling and clot formation in the legs.
