Leg Swelling and Venous Insufficiency: What You Need to Know
- Dr. Soroush Sohrabi
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Persistent leg swelling is a common concern, especially in warm climates like Dubai. While several medical conditions can cause swelling, one of the most frequently overlooked causes is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a condition that occurs when the leg veins struggle to return blood to the heart, leading to fluid buildup and visible swelling.
Understanding the connection between venous insufficiency and leg swelling is essential for timely diagnosis, proper treatment, and long-term relief.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency develops when the valves inside your veins become damaged or weak. These valves normally help blood flow upward toward the heart. When they fail, blood can pool in the lower legs, increasing venous pressure and causing symptoms such as:
Leg swelling (edema)
Pain or heaviness
Visible varicose veins
In severe cases, ulcers
Left untreated, CVI can lead to progressive complications and significantly affect your quality of life. Learn more about venous insufficiency.
Why Venous Insufficiency Causes Swelling
When venous valves do not close properly, blood flows backward and accumulates in the veins. This increased pressure forces fluid into the surrounding tissues, resulting in pitting edema—a form of swelling that leaves an indentation when pressed. This can lead to discomfort, limited mobility, and long-term skin changes.
Common Symptoms of Venous Insufficiency
Swelling in one or both legs (often near the ankles)
Leg heaviness or fatigue
Itching or irritation
Varicose or spider veins
Pain that worsens with prolonged standing
Skin thickening, darkening, or eczema-like changes
Who Is at Risk?
The risk of venous insufficiency and leg swelling is higher in individuals with the following factors:
Age over 50
Pregnancy
Family history of vein conditions
Prolonged standing or sitting
Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
Diagnosing Leg Swelling in Dubai
If you’re experiencing unexplained or persistent swelling, a vascular assessment is strongly recommended. At Dubai Vein Specialist, we perform a Doppler ultrasound, the gold standard test for detecting venous reflux and assessing blood flow.
Treatment Options Available in Dubai
At Dubai Vein Specialist, we provide tailored treatment plans based on the severity of your venous insufficiency. Options include:
Compression Therapy – First-line conservative management
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) – Minimally invasive laser-based technique
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – Image-guided thermal treatment
ClariVein® (MOCA) – Non-thermal, no-needle option
Foam Sclerotherapy – For small veins and early-stage disease
Preventing Leg Swelling and Vein Problems
To reduce your risk of CVI and manage existing symptoms:
Avoid long periods of standing or sitting
Elevate your legs regularly
Wear compression stockings when advised
Stay physically active with walking or swimming
Maintain a healthy weight
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can venous insufficiency resolve on its own?No. Venous insufficiency is a chronic condition that generally worsens without treatment. However, early intervention and lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms.
Q2: Is all leg swelling caused by vein issues?Not always. While CVI is a common cause, swelling can also be linked to heart, kidney, or lymphatic disorders. A vascular evaluation helps determine the exact cause.
Q3: Do I need surgery for venous insufficiency?In most cases, non-surgical options such as compression or minimally invasive procedures are effective. Surgery is rarely needed and is reserved for advanced cases.
When to See a Vascular Specialist
If your leg swelling is persistent, painful, or associated with skin changes, it’s time to seek expert evaluation. Early diagnosis allows for more effective treatment and reduces the risk of complications.
📞 Book a consultation with Dr. Soroush Sohrabi – Consultant Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon in Dubai.
Final Thoughts
Leg swelling is not just a cosmetic issue—it can be an early warning sign of chronic venous disease. Fortunately, with accurate diagnosis and a wide range of modern treatments available in Dubai, you can restore healthy circulation and avoid long-term damage.
👉 Visit www.dubaiveinspecialist.com to learn more.
