What Happens If Chronic Venous Insufficiency Is Left Untreated?
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 is a progressive condition that does not resolve on its own.
When vein valves continue to fail and blood pools in the legs, pressure builds over time and affects surrounding tissues.
Venous Ulcer before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary and the results shown are not guaranteed
Venous Ulcer before and after treatment pictures.
Results may vary and the results shown are not guaranteed
Understanding what can happen if chronic venous insufficiency is left untreated helps patients recognize why early evaluation and treatment matter.
If you’re living with ongoing leg symptoms and wondering whether treatment is necessary, a vein evaluation can help clarify the risks of waiting.
Progressive worsening of symptoms
Without treatment, symptoms such as leg swelling, heaviness, aching, and fatigue often become more frequent and persistent.
Symptoms that once appeared only at the end of the day may begin occurring earlier and last longer.
Increasing leg swelling
Ongoing venous pressure causes more fluid to leak into surrounding tissues.
This leads to chronic swelling that may become harder to relieve with elevation or compression alone.
Legs Feeling Heavy or Tired? Check Your Symptoms for Vein Disease
Skin discoloration and inflammation
Untreated CVI commonly leads to darkening or discoloration of the skin near the ankles.
This reflects chronic inflammation and leakage of blood components into the skin.
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Skin thickening and tissue damage
Over time, the skin and underlying tissue may become thick, firm, or leathery.
These changes indicate long-standing damage and reduced tissue health.
Venous stasis dermatitis
Chronic inflammation can cause redness, itching, scaling, and irritation of the skin.
This condition can be mistaken for eczema or infection but is driven by venous disease.
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Development of venous ulcers
In advanced stages, untreated CVI can lead to open sores or ulcers near the ankles.
These ulcers often heal slowly and may recur without addressing the underlying vein problem.
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Table of contents
1. Progressive worsening of symptoms
2. Increasing leg swelling
3. Skin discoloration and inflammation
4. Skin thickening and tissue damage
5. Venous stasis dermatitis
6. Development of venous ulcers
7. Increased risk of infection
8. Reduced mobility and quality of life
9. Why chronic venous insufficiency does not improve on its own?
10. How early treatment can change the course?
11. When untreated CVI should prompt evaluation?
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After
A 37-year-old patient visited our Vein Treatment Clinic, seeking relief from unsightly and painful varicose and spider veins. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, significantly improving the veins’ appearance and completely eliminating discomfort. The patient is now enjoying a more active and pain-free lifestyle.
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A 69 year-old patient visited our California Vein Clinic, embarrassed by spider veins that had impacted their self-esteem. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, leaving their legs smooth and healthy. The patient now feels more confident, thanks to this transformative treatment.
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This 84 year-old patient at our New Jersey Vein Treatment Clinic came in with spider veins that had affected their daily routine. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments to relieve discomfort and restore both their leg health and confidence. The patient now enjoys a more active and fulfilling lifestyle, free from pain.
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After
At our Long Island Vein Clinic, we treated this 75 year-old patient with spider veins using radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy. These minimally invasive treatments improved both the patient’s appearance and overall well-being, offering transformative results.
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
Increased risk of infection
Damaged skin and open wounds increase the risk of skin infections.
Recurrent infections can further delay healing and worsen tissue damage.
Reduced mobility and quality of life
Pain, swelling, and skin changes can limit walking, standing, and daily activities.
Over time, untreated CVI can significantly affect comfort, sleep, and overall quality of life.
Why chronic venous insufficiency does not improve on its own?
Valve damage inside the veins does not repair itself.
Without treatment to improve circulation, pressure and tissue damage continue to progress.
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How early treatment can change the course?
Treating CVI early can reduce vein pressure, improve circulation, and stabilize symptoms.
Early intervention lowers the risk of skin damage and ulcers.
When untreated CVI should prompt evaluation?
Evaluation is especially important if swelling, skin changes, or pain are worsening.
A vein evaluation can determine whether treatment may prevent further complications.
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About the Medical Team at Vein Treatment Clinic
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.
Patients benefit from a team-based model of care where expertise is shared, best practices are consistently applied, and treatment recommendations are driven by data, experience, and long-term results.
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Start Your Journey to Pain-Free Legs
At Vein Treatment Clinic, education is considered a core part of treatment. Patients are encouraged to understand their condition, their options, and the reasoning behind each recommendation, so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
If you’d like clarity about your varicose veins and what treatment options make sense for you, a vein evaluation can help guide that decision. Submit the form below to start your journey!
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