Do I Need a Test for C.V.I.?
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (C.V.I.) is a serious circulatory problem in which the leg veins cannot pump enough blood back to your heart. It affects over 2.5 million Americans, most over the age of 40. Symptoms of CVI include varicose veins, skin problems, leg and ankle swelling, tight calves, and legs that feel heavy, tired, restless, or achy. Factors that can increase the risk of CVI include pregnancy, obesity, smoking, standing or sitting for long periods of time and not getting enough exercise. Answers to these questions will determine if you are at risk for CVI and if a vascular exam will help determine your vascular health status.
1. Are your legs swollen, painful, red or warm to the touch?
2. Have you had a blood clot in a vein that caused inflammation, pain or irritation?
3. Do you have varicose veins (veins that are enlarged or swollen and raised above the surface of the skin) in the legs?
4. Have you had a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in the past and are experiencing pain, swelling, changes in skin color, cellulites, or non-healing ulcers?
5. Do your legs feel heavy, tired, restless or achy?
6. If you push on your swollen foot, ankle or leg for 10 seconds and release, does your fingerprint leave a dimple?
7 If your feet, ankles and legs are swollen, does the skin look
stretched or shiny?
8. Do you have an ulcer on the inside of your ankle?