Pathogenesis (disease development)
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is defined as hypertension (high pressure) in the venous system leading to changes in the veins and skin. Thus, venous valve insufficiency (venous valves become unable to close) occurs, resulting in recirculation, retrograde (“backward”) blood flow, and venous districts that are no longer supplied. The result is a microcirculatory disturbance and trophic (nutritional) disturbances. Furthermore, there is a lymphatic drainage disorder.
Etiology (causes)
Biographic causes
- Body size – as body size increases, the risk of venous valve insufficiency increases
- Occupations – occupations with long periods of standing or sitting.
Behavioral causes
- Physical activity
- Standing or sitting for long periods of time (occupation)
- Little exercise and sports
- Overweight (BMI ≥ 25; obesity).
Disease-related causes
Cardiovascular system (I00-I99)
- Postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) – chronic congestion of blood returning to the heart as a result of thrombosis.
- Venous valve insufficiency (insufficiently functioning venous valves) of the deep leg veins.
- Venous angiodysplasias (vascular malformations) such as the absence or defects of the venous valves.
Other causes
- Gravidity (pregnancy)
