Venous insufficiency is one of the most common reasons people notice aching, heavy, or swollen legs, yet it is often overlooked until visible signs like varicose veins appear. Understanding what causes it, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available can help you make an informed decision about your leg health. At Vascular Health Centers, Dr. Abboud brings more than 20 years of experience to evaluating and treating vein conditions across our Chicago-area locations.
What Is Venous Insufficiency?
Healthy leg veins carry blood upward toward the heart with the help of small one-way valves. When those valves weaken or stop closing properly, blood can pool in the lower legs instead of flowing back efficiently. This condition is known as chronic venous insufficiency, and over time it can lead to the symptoms many people associate with vein problems.
Common signs include:
- Aching, heaviness, or fatigue in the legs, often worse after standing
- Swelling around the ankles, especially later in the day
- Visible varicose veins or smaller spider veins
- Itching, cramping, or skin changes near the ankle
You can read more about the range of related symptoms on our vein symptoms and conditions page.
How Venous Insufficiency Is Diagnosed
An accurate diagnosis starts with understanding how blood is moving through your veins. The primary tool we use is a non-invasive ultrasound vein evaluation, which lets us see which valves are not working and map the affected veins. This step is important because visible veins on the surface do not always tell the full story of what is happening underneath.
During your visit, Dr. Abboud reviews your symptoms, medical history, and ultrasound findings together to understand the source of the problem before discussing any treatment.
How We Help Treat It
Treatment is tailored to the severity of the condition and which veins are involved. Many people begin with conservative measures, and others benefit from minimally invasive procedures performed in the office. Options we offer include:
- Compression therapy to support circulation and ease symptoms
- Endovenous laser treatment (EVLA) to close a faulty vein from the inside
- Varithena foam treatment for certain larger or branching veins
- VenaSeal closure, a non-thermal option that seals the vein
Most procedures are performed in the office and allow you to return to normal daily activities soon after. Dr. Abboud will walk you through which approach fits your situation.
Insurance and Getting Started
Treatment for symptomatic veins is considered medically necessary in many cases. Most PPO plans and Medicare cover treatment for symptomatic veins, while purely cosmetic vein work is self-pay. Our team can help you understand your coverage before you begin.
We see patients at three convenient locations: Chicago (5907 W. 63rd St.), Oak Brook (2425 W. 22nd St. #205), and Orland Park (10 Orland Square Dr.). View details on our service areas page, or learn more about Dr. Abboud.
If you are noticing leg heaviness, swelling, or visible veins, the first step is a proper evaluation. Book a Free Vein Screening or call us at 630-974-1400 to get started.