What is a hallmark sign of chronic venous insufficiency?

A hallmark sign of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is the presence of swelling in the legs and varicose veins. In CVI, the venous system fails to adequately return blood from the lower extremities back to the heart, leading to increased pressure in the veins. This pressure causes fluid to leak into surrounding tissues, resulting in edema (swelling) in the legs.

Varicose veins, which are enlarged and twisted veins that are often visible just beneath the skin, are also a common manifestation of CVI. They occur when venous valves become incompetent, allowing blood to pool in the veins. Together, these symptoms signify the ineffective venous circulation characteristic of chronic venous insufficiency.

Other options such as asymptomatic leg pain, pallor of the skin, and cold extremities are not consistent with the nature of chronic venous insufficiency. Typically, individuals with CVI experience symptoms associated with venous pooling and increased pressure rather than symptoms associated with arterial insufficiency, which might include pallor or cold extremities.