If you’re already worried about the swelling in your lower legs, the addition of an irritating itch in those same areas is likely to be even more concerning. It’s reasonable to assume that these two symptoms are connected, and as experts in cardiovascular health, we can confidently say that there’s a good chance they’re related to a vascular problem.
At our medical practice, patients frequently visit Dr. James Kim, a cardiologist, for issues like leg swelling accompanied by itchiness. In the following paragraphs, we will delve into one common vascular condition that encompasses both of these symptoms: venous stasis dermatitis.
Blood Pooling in Your Legs
Your vascular system consists of three types of blood vessels:
- Arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
- Veins that return blood to the heart for oxygen.
- Capillaries which are tiny vessels connecting small veins and arteries.
The veins in your lower legs are some of the hardest-working blood vessels, as they must fight distance and gravity to return oxygen-depleted blood to your heart. To assist with this, they have small, one-way valves that close after blood passes through, preventing backflow.
When these valves weaken or fail, they don’t close completely, causing blood to pool in your legs. This condition is known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), affecting 6 to 7 million people in the United States.
How Venous Insufficiency Causes Venous Stasis Dermatitis
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) can lead to several side effects in your lower legs, including:
- Varicose veins
- Spider veins
- Swelling
- Itchiness
- Ulcers
These symptoms are collectively known as venous stasis dermatitis, affecting about 15-20 million people over the age of 50 in the US.
When blood pools in your legs, it can leak into your tissues, causing swelling and inflammation. This inflammation can block blood flow to your skin, resulting in itchiness or a heavy feeling in your legs.
If venous stasis dermatitis persists, it can cause changes in skin color, a rash, and ulcers that heal slowly due to poor blood circulation.
Eliminating Itchiness and Swelling in Your Legs
The initial step in alleviating your symptoms involves visiting our clinic so that we can accurately diagnose the issue. Upon discovering that CVI and venous stasis dermatitis are the underlying causes of your discomfort, we will form an effective treatment plan to provide you with relief.
There are various methods available for promoting better blood circulation from your legs back up to your heart, such as elevating your legs and wearing compression stockings.
If you are seeking a solution for your itchy and swollen lower legs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at one of our locations in Chula Vista or National City, California, to schedule an appointment.
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Heart Disorder, Swollen Legs, Varicose Veins
