Can Chronic Venous Insufficiency Get Worse Over Time?
Medically verified
Last updated on 1/29/2026
By Dr. Michael Nguyen
Vein Doctor at Vein Treatment Clinic
Harvard Medical School
Board Certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine
Chronic venous insufficiency often develops gradually, which leads many patients to wonder whether it will remain stable or worsen over time.
Because CVI involves ongoing valve dysfunction and impaired blood flow, it can progress if the underlying problem is not addressed.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary according to each case.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary according to each case.
Understanding how chronic venous insufficiency changes over time helps patients recognize warning signs and seek evaluation before complications develop.
If you’re noticing changes in your symptoms or skin over time, a vein evaluation can help clarify whether CVI is progressing.
Does chronic venous insufficiency always worsen?
Not always. Some people have mild chronic venous insufficiency that remains relatively stable for long periods.
However, because valve damage does not repair itself, progression is common without treatment.
Why chronic venous insufficiency can worsen over time?
CVI worsens as backward blood flow continues to increase pressure in the veins.
This ongoing pressure gradually damages vein walls, surrounding tissue, and skin.
Early signs of progression
Early progression may appear as increasing leg heaviness, swelling later in the day, or new visible veins.
These changes are often subtle and easy to dismiss at first.
Symptom Checker
How symptoms change as CVI progresses?
As CVI advances, symptoms often become more frequent and persistent.
Patients may experience worsening pain, swelling, itching, or nighttime discomfort.
Skin changes as a sign of progression
Long-standing venous pressure can cause skin darkening, thickening, dryness, or a leathery texture near the ankles.
These changes indicate more advanced disease and higher risk of complications.
Risk of venous ulcers over time
In advanced stages, CVI can lead to open sores or ulcers near the ankles.
These ulcers can be slow to heal without addressing the underlying vein problem.
Wounds That Won’t Heal? Discover the Link Between Circulation and Skin Ulcers
Table of contents
1. Does chronic venous insufficiency always worsen?
2. Why chronic venous insufficiency can worsen over time?
3. Early signs of progression
4. How symptoms change as CVI progresses?
5. Skin changes as a sign of progression
6. Risk of venous ulcers over time
7. How untreated CVI affects daily life?
8. Factors that influence how fast CVI progresses
9. Can progression be slowed or prevented?
10. Why early evaluation matters?
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Before
After
This 75 year-old patient visited our Long Island Vein Treatment Clinic with painful spider veins. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy, minimally invasive treatments, to eliminate the veins and restore comfort and confidence. The patient experienced life-changing results
How untreated CVI affects daily life?
Progressive CVI can limit mobility, interfere with work or exercise, and affect quality of life.
Symptoms may become harder to manage with conservative measures alone.
Why Waiting Isn’t an Option: The Risks of Untreated CVI
Factors that influence how fast CVI progresses
Progression speed varies based on genetics, age, activity level, weight, pregnancy history, and overall vein health.
Prolonged standing or sitting can accelerate worsening.
Can progression be slowed or prevented?
Early evaluation and treatment can slow progression by improving blood flow and reducing vein pressure.
Lifestyle measures and compression can help, but addressing reflux provides the most lasting benefit.
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Why early evaluation matters?
Evaluating CVI early allows treatment before significant skin damage or ulcers develop.
Early intervention can improve long-term outcomes and comfort.
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< How Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency Related to Varicose Veins?
What Skin Changes Are Associated With Chronic Venous Insufficiency? >
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Vein Treatment Clinic is powered by VIP Medical Group and built around a single guiding principle: deliver the highest standard of vein care using an academic, evidence-based approach combined with the most advanced, minimally invasive technology available today.
Clinical leadership at Vein Treatment Clinic is guided by board-certified vein specialists, including Dr. Michael Nguyen, whose training and experience help shape the clinic’s rigorous standards of care.
All physicians at Vein Treatment Clinic follow a structured, highly standardized clinical model. This includes ongoing training in the latest non-surgical vein treatments, continuous review of emerging research, and strict adherence to proven safety and quality protocols.
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