Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is more than just tired, aching legs. It’s a progressive condition that can erode your quality of life if left untreated. At Region Vein in Munster, Indiana, we help patients understand their symptoms and the stages of CVI, so they can take control before it worsens.
With over 30 years of experience in medicine and board certification from the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, Dr. Demetrios J. Karamichos combines extensive knowledge with a gentle approach.
Whether you’re just noticing new veins or experiencing serious swelling or slow-healing wounds, we’re here to help. It all begins with recognizing symptoms.
Understanding CVI
CVI develops when the valves in your leg veins don’t work properly. Instead of pushing blood upward, these weakened valves allow blood to pool in the legs. Over time, this pressure causes a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe skin issues or ulcers.
Up to 17% of men and 40% of women suffer from CVI, according to the Journal of Vascular Surgery. Many don’t realize it’s happening until symptoms become disruptive, but knowing the stages may help you get an early diagnosis and treatment.
The Stages of CVI
CVI is usually categorized using the Clinical, Etiological, Anatomical, and Pathophysiological (CEAP) classification system. Here’s how the stages look and feel.
- Stage 0: No symptoms, but changes are starting beneath the skin surface.
- Stage 1: Spider veins: Typically no discomfort, just visible web-like spider veins.
- Stage 2: Varicose veins: At this point, varicose veins are 3mm or larger in width. Many people start to experience leg discomfort.
- Stage 3: Leg swelling: Persistent swelling in the ankles or lower legs. Legs may feel progressively worse.
- Stage 4: Skin changes: Itching, darkening, or hardening of the skin around the lower legs and ankles. Discomfort may worsen further, and some patients develop restless leg syndrome at this time.
- Stage 5: Healed ulcers: Symptoms from previous stages. In addition, skin may feel particularly fragile or sore, with areas that previously had open wounds.
- Stage 6: Active ulcers: Painful open sores that are slow to heal. Legs may feel very hot, inflamed, and tender.
CVI Treatment in Munster, IN
At Region Vein, we help patients at every stage of CVI using the most advanced treatments. If you’re noticing swelling, visible veins, or leg discomfort, call our Munster, IN, office at 219-595-3095 to book your consultation.
