Get to Know Chronic Venous Disease (CVD) Closer

Chronic Venous Disease (CVD)

Chronic Venous Disease (CVD) is defined as an abnormally functioning venous system due to incompetent venous valves with or without associated venous outflow obstruction, which may affect the superficial venous system, the deep venous system, or both.

CVD characterization

“Chronic venous disease encompasses all the clinical anomalies - symptoms and signs - that result from venous disease of the lower leg and develop into a chronic state.”1

Symptom

• Heavy legs
• Painful
• Itchy
• cramps
• Restless legs

Signs

• Telangiectasias, reticular veins
• Varicose veins
• Edema
• Skin changes
• Uiceasi active or cured

Risk factor

Age: Aging causes wear and tear. Eventually, that wear and tear causes the valves to fail.

Gender: Female > Male. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause. Progesterone relaxes the walls of the veins. HRT/OCP may increase the risk of varicose veins.

Genetics

Obesity: Increases venous HTN.

Stand for a long time. Standing still for a long time impairs venous return.

The primary investigation of choice for diagnosing chronic venous insufficiency is duplex venous ultrasound, which can provide a clear view of the veins if there is a blood clot or valve dysfunction. However, other imaging such as an MRI or CT scan may also be used.

Prevention
If you find or experience Chronic Venous Disease, there are several things you can do to prevent this disease. This preventive method can also be used as a combination treatment for someone who has been diagnosed with chronic venous disease:

• Avoid standing or sitting for too long.
• Exercise regularly, at least walk a lot.
• Avoid obesity.
• Elevating your feet when sitting and lying down, it is recommended that your feet be higher than your heart.
• Wear compression stockings.
• Keep your skin clean well.

When to See a Doctor
If family or relatives experience the signs or symptoms mentioned above or have any questions regarding chronic venous disease, immediately come to the nearest facility or visit Hermina Tangkubanprahu Hospital to consult with a cardiovascular thoracic surgeon.