A recent study conducted by the Institute of Geriatrics and five other medical centers across the country has found that up to 34% of individuals who come for examination exhibit symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) to varying degrees.
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| Varicose veins accompanied by edema in the lower limbs (Photo: TTO) |
Although this is a common condition, it receives very little attention in Vietnam, especially regarding basic knowledge about the disease.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency is a prevalent condition, particularly among the elderly. According to some epidemiological studies, the prevalence of this disease may reach 30% to 40%, and it frequently occurs in workers, teachers, and others.
According to Associate Professor Dr. Pham Thang, Director of the Institute of Geriatrics, in the early stages, the symptoms are often non-specific, making it easy for patients to confuse them with normal signs of aging. The incidence of the disease in women can be two to three times higher than in men due to hormonal changes in the body. The condition is also common among individuals whose jobs require prolonged standing (such as textile workers, salespeople, hairdressers, and teachers). Other contributing factors include the habit of wearing high heels or tight clothing.
It is noticeable that symptoms significantly worsen with prolonged standing or sitting, in hot environments, and typically appear at the end of the day. Patients may experience a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the calves, mild swelling around the ankles, and sensations of heat or itching in the lower legs.
Dermatitis, Dry Ankles, and Ulceration
Chronic Venous Insufficiency progresses gradually, but if left untreated, it can lead to severe complications that significantly impact the quality of life.
According to Dr. Thang, CVI causes varicose veins in the legs, leading to enlarged, twisted veins that can be unsightly and cause embarrassment for patients. However, long-term CVI can lead to changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. The skin can become discolored and develop conditions such as eczema or dermatitis, progressively leading to hardened, wooden-like ankles with loss of elasticity. When these manifestations appear, they can quickly lead to the formation of ulcers that may severely disable the patient.
For patients with chronic CVI, medication is the first choice for doctors. Additionally, compression therapy for the lower limbs is a method applicable in all stages of the disease. In some cases, surgery may be an effective solution to remove the irreparable venous segments or utilize laser energy or radiofrequency to eliminate fibrosed veins. However, Dr. Thang emphasizes that alongside these treatment methods, attention should also be paid to positional therapy and modifying risk factors to achieve the best treatment outcomes.
To prevent CVI, it is crucial to maintain regular physical activity such as walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing. For individuals who are overweight, it is essential to follow a balanced diet and exercise to reduce weight, as this is a risk factor for CVI. Additionally, it is important to limit prolonged sitting or standing. If occupational conditions necessitate such positions, individuals should try to incorporate leg movements and, during breaks, elevate their legs to enhance blood circulation.
