Venous Stasis
This article does not constitute as medical advice.
If you are experiencing symptoms, contact your doctor or make an appointment.
What is Venous Stasis?
Venous stasis or venostasis is a condition attributed to improper functioning of the veins in the leg. As a result, blood that should be carried back to the heart is not adequately transported. The misdirected blood results in swollen feet, pooling of blood in the feet, and blood clots. Venous stasis can also be a result of other conditions like chronic congestive heart failure and kidney disease.
Causes of Venous Stasis
This condition typically occurs when there is a problem with the patient’s veins. The lack of working valves to carry blood to the heart results in blood pooling in the legs. Several factors contribute to vein illnesses, and those who are the following are at greater risk:
- Age: Individuals over the age of 50 are more likely to develop this condition.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop this issue. Experts mention that this is due to pregnancy and years of wearing high heels.
- Obesity: Those who carry extra pounds and do not exercise have less blood flow through the body.
- Chronic Illnesses: Illnesses like diabetes, kidney disorders, and vascular disease can cause this condition.
- Smoking: Smoking narrows the veins, and after a time, this can cause blood flow back to the heart difficult.
Symptoms of Venous Stasis
If left untreated, this condition can become increasingly uncomfortable with time. Though not life-threatening, venous insufficiencies can make your day-to-day activities hard to perform. Look for symptoms such as:
- Swelling: Swelling and the ankles and feet are one of the first signs of this condition. The swelling and inflammation can get worse throughout the day with more movement.
- Heavy legs: Legs feel heavy and tired. These symptoms are relieved upon elevating the legs.
- Varicose veins: Varicose veins appear enlarged, dark blue, and bulging. There may be blood clots in the superficial veins.
- Change of appearance in the legs: The skin on your ankles appears discolored to red or yellow. In addition, this area may even have oozing sores and hair loss.
Treating Venous Stasis
If experiencing symptoms of venous stasis, contact your podiatrist, who can properly diagnose and offer customized treatment. In addition, individuals can implement lifestyle changes to both manage symptoms and prevent this condition altogether.
Prevention:
- Regular exercise and movement: Individuals should incorporate regular exercise and movement into their daily regimens. Whether it is finding a workout routine or going for a walk, activity helps with blood flow. In addition, breaks from sitting for long periods can increase overall health.
- Comfortable shoes: Loose-fitting shoes are preferred over tight shoes to increase blood flow to and from the extremities.
Treatment:
- Rest: Moving around with this limitation can be painful, so be sure to rest if the ankles or legs feel too irritated. However, it’s essential to take breaks and move around during rest periods to increase blood flow.
- Elevation: Elevate your foot to heart level while sleeping or sitting.
- Compression stockings or dressings: These socks limit swelling and pain while reducing the risk for blood clots.
