Poor leg circulation can lead to heavy, swollen, or painful legs, interfering with daily comfort. Venous reflux disease, also called chronic venous insufficiency, is a common cause of these symptoms. This condition occurs when weakened vein valves allow blood to flow backward and pool in the lower legs. Understanding how this process affects circulation is the first step toward improving your vein health and restoring comfort.
At Chesapeake Vein Center & MedSpa in Chesapeake, VA, Dr. Surya Challa, a board-certified vein surgeon and Diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, leads a team specializing in minimally invasive vein care. As an IAC-accredited vein center, the practice is recognized for its high safety standards and advanced technology.
What Happens During Venous Reflux Disease
Your veins rely on small, one-way valves to move blood upward to the heart. When these valves weaken or fail, blood can flow backward, creating pressure that can enlarge and stretch veins. Over time, this poor circulation can lead to uncomfortable and visible symptoms such as:
- Swelling: Persistent swelling in the lower legs and ankles.
- Aching or heaviness: A tired feeling in the legs that worsens after sitting or standing.
- Visible veins: Bulging or twisted veins that appear beneath the skin.
- Skin changes: Discoloration or thickening around the ankles.
- Ulcers: Open wounds that develop from prolonged venous pressure.
Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent further damage and support long-term leg health.
How We Diagnose Venous Reflux
Accurate diagnosis is essential before beginning any vein treatment. At Chesapeake Vein Center & MedSpa, we use venous duplex ultrasound, an advanced imaging method that evaluates both blood flow and valve function. This non-invasive test helps Dr. Challa pinpoint the source of reflux, ensuring the most effective treatment plan possible. According to the Journal of Vascular Surgery, duplex ultrasound remains the gold standard for diagnosing venous insufficiency and guiding treatment decisions.
Treatment Options to Improve Circulation
Once venous reflux disease is confirmed, customized care can help restore circulation and reduce discomfort. Depending on your needs, treatment options may include:
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses gentle heat to close off diseased veins, redirecting blood to healthier ones.
- Sclerotherapy: Involves injecting a solution into smaller veins to safely seal them.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: Removes visible surface veins through small incisions for immediate cosmetic improvement.
Each treatment is performed in the office with minimal downtime. Most patients return to normal activities the same day, with noticeable symptom relief soon after.
Restore Healthy Circulation With Expert Vein Care
Living with aching or swollen legs doesn’t have to be your norm. Chesapeake Vein Center & MedSpa in Chesapeake, VA, combines advanced diagnostics, physician-led expertise, and personalized treatment to restore circulation and comfort. Call 757-819-7633 today to schedule your consultation and learn how Dr. Challa can help you regain healthy, confident legs.
