CVI and Venous Hypertension: 5 Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

May is Hypertension Awareness Month, an excellent time to shed light on venous issues such as chronic venous insufficiency and venous hypertension. These conditions develop when the veins in the legs struggle to return blood to the heart efficiently. As pressure builds in the lower extremities, it damages the walls and valves inside the veins. 

The increased pressure is called venous hypertension, and it can cause discomfort, tissue breakdown, skin changes, and circulation issues. Often, early signs are subtle and mistaken for normal aging or fatigue. This makes it important to recognize signs early, and take action to reduce the risk of complications. 

At Third Coast Vascular, our interventional vascular specialists provide comprehensive care for patients across Sheboygan and Milwaukee. We specialize in treating venous disease, including CVI, venous hypertension, and related conditions. Our team uses advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive procedures designed to restore circulation and preserve long-term health.

Getting assistance early when you have venous issues can make a big difference. Here are five warning signs to look out for. 

#1: Persistent leg swelling

Swelling in the lower legs and ankles is often one of the first signs of vein issues. Venous disease symptoms tend to worsen throughout the day, especially after long hours sitting or standing, and may improve slightly with elevation. 

This type of swelling is called edema, and it occurs when blood pools in the veins, leaking fluid into surrounding tissue. This may cause deep indentations from socks or shoes, or a heavy, tight feeling in the legs. Chronic swelling can signal venous hypertension and may eventually lead to skin breakdown and skin ulcers if left untreated.

#2: Skin discoloration or texture changes

Skin often tells the story of what’s happening beneath the surface. With venous hypertension, reduced circulation can damage tissue over time, leading to reddish-brown discoloration around the ankles and lower legs. 

The skin may become thin, dry, itchy, or take on a leathery appearance. These changes suggest chronic inflammation caused by stagnant blood flow, and it typically doesn’t improve without medical treatment. Once these symptoms appear, the risk of developing skin ulcers increases significantly, making early intervention essential.

#3: Leg pain or heaviness

A dull, aching pain or heavy sensation in the legs can signal impaired venous return. This discomfort often worsens with prolonged standing or walking and improves with rest or leg elevation. While it might feel like general fatigue, it's often a result of increased pressure in the veins due to faulty valves. 

Over time, the discomfort can begin to limit your mobility or interfere with your daily activities. Pain associated with CVI is a sign that veins need medical evaluation, not just home remedies or compression stockings.

#4: Visible varicose or spider veins

Varicose veins are often dismissed as a cosmetic concern. But in many cases, they’re a visible sign of deeper venous problems. These veins form when blood backs up due to valve failure, increasing pressure and causing veins to bulge. 

There might also be smaller spider veins or clusters of broken capillaries on the legs or ankles. If there is discomfort, swelling, or skin changes along with varicose veins, it’s time to get a full vascular assessment.

#5: Wounds that won’t heal

Venous ulcers are open wounds, usually found near the ankles, that fail to close with time. They may start as itchy, inflamed patches of skin or minor injuries that seem slow to heal. As blood flow in the area worsens, tissue begins to break down, leading to open sores vulnerable to infection. 

These ulcers are painful, persistent, and often resistant to standard wound care without targeted treatment of the underlying venous condition. 

Acting early to protect your vascular health

CVI and venous hypertension are progressive but treatable. The sooner you address the signs, the more options you have for relief and prevention. Our team at Third Coast Vascular offers personalized, minimally invasive treatments to improve circulation and support long-term leg health. 

Don't wait for symptoms to escalate into serious complications. Contact us at our Sheboygan or Milwaukee office to schedule a consultation with a vascular specialist.