🦵 Varicose Veins & Leg Swelling? Let’s Talk About Chronic Venous Insufficiency – Internist PCP physician Georgetown TX
- Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
- Jul 18, 2025
- 4 min read
If you’ve noticed aching, heaviness, or visible veins in your legs — especially after standing — you might be dealing with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). It’s a common condition, and the good news is: you’re not alone, and there are many ways to find relief.
At Wellness Bay Primary Care, our trusted internist and PCP physician in Georgetown TX offers unrushed visits and real solutions to help you manage varicose veins and CVI with both medical care and natural approaches.
🧬 What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)?
CVI happens when the valves in your leg veins don’t work as they should. Instead of moving blood back up toward your heart, some blood pools in the legs, leading to swelling, heaviness, and visible varicose veins.
🔍 Pathophysiology (What’s Happening Inside?)
Your veins have small valves that act like doors — opening to let blood flow upward and closing to stop it from going backward. In CVI:
These valves become weak or damaged
Blood leaks backward and pools in the lower legs
This causes pressure, swelling, and visible bulging veins
Over time, this can lead to skin changes, itching, or even open sores near the ankles.
📋 Common Causes and Risk Factors
Prolonged standing or sitting
Family history of varicose veins
Pregnancy
Obesity
Aging
Prior leg injuries or blood clots
Sedentary lifestyle
At our primary care clinic in Georgetown TX, we help patients explore their individual risk factors with respect and care.
🚨 Symptoms of CVI and Varicose Veins
Heavy, aching, or tired legs (especially later in the day)
Visible varicose veins (twisted, enlarged veins)
Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
Cramping or itching
Skin darkening, especially around the ankles
Restless legs or discomfort at night
In severe cases: skin ulcers or open wounds
🧪 How We Diagnose It – Internist and PCP Physician in Georgetown TX
At Wellness Bay, our internist listens carefully to your symptoms and may recommend:
Physical exam of your legs
Duplex ultrasound (a painless scan to assess blood flow)
Blood work to check for other causes of leg swelling
These help us determine how severe your CVI is and rule out other issues like blood clots or heart disease.
💊 Treatment Options – Medical & Natural
We believe in a holistic approach that fits your lifestyle and comfort level:
🧦 Medical Options:
Compression stockings (support vein flow)
Prescription medications (like venoactive agents)
Minimally invasive vein procedures (e.g., sclerotherapy, laser vein treatment)
Referral to a vein specialist if needed
🌿 Natural & At-Home Relief:
Elevate legs above heart level for 15–30 mins a day
Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
Gentle leg exercises (walking, calf raises)
Maintain a healthy weight
Herbal supplements (e.g., horse chestnut extract – speak to your doctor first!)
Avoid tight clothing around thighs and waist
Cool water leg rinses to reduce swelling
You’ll get a personalized care plan from your internal medicine doctor near Georgetown TX that balances medical advice with natural care.
🏃♀️ Lifestyle Tips That Help
Stay active: Walking is the best exercise for your legs
Wear compression socks during the day
Take standing breaks if you sit a lot
Lose extra weight to reduce vein pressure
Eat foods rich in fiber and antioxidants
Stay hydrated to support circulation
❓ Top 10 FAQs – Chronic Venous Insufficiency
1. Are varicose veins dangerous?
Not usually, but untreated CVI can lead to complications like ulcers. We monitor your symptoms to keep things safe.
2. Can you cure varicose veins naturally?
You can manage symptoms and slow progression with lifestyle changes, but damaged veins don’t repair themselves fully.
3. Is CVI the same as a blood clot?
No — but we’ll rule out clots (DVT) if your symptoms suggest that risk.
4. Do I need to see a vein specialist?
We start with conservative treatments here. We only refer out if needed.
5. Can supplements help?
Some supplements like horse chestnut or diosmin may reduce swelling — but always check with your doctor first.
6. Does insurance cover treatment?
Many treatments are covered if symptoms interfere with daily life. We’ll help check your coverage.
7. Can CVI affect both legs?
Yes, though one leg may feel worse than the other.
8. Is this only a cosmetic issue?
No — symptoms like swelling and fatigue deserve attention and care.
9. Are compression socks enough?
For many, yes! We’ll help you choose the right type and fit.
10. What if I’ve had this for years?
It’s never too late. We help people at every stage of CVI feel better.
🩺 When to See a Doctor
Please don’t wait if:
Your legs are swollen or uncomfortable often
You notice new or worsening varicose veins
Skin near your ankles changes color
You see open sores, itching, or warmth
You want real answers without judgment
Our internist and PCP physician in Georgetown TX will give you the time, attention, and personalized care you deserve.
💬 Let’s Keep You Healthy, Together
The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.
📍 Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX
📞 Call 512.588.7008 or📲 Book online
Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:
Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX
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