Initial management of venous insufficiency, according to the material, typically includes which approach?

• A. Immediate surgical intervention
• B. Anticoagulation therapy
• C. Compression stockings and lifestyle changes
• D. Thrombolytic therapy

Answer: (C)

Initial management of venous insufficiency centers on conservative measures that improve venous return and relieve symptoms. Compression stockings apply external pressure to support the leg veins and calf pump function, helping to reduce venous pooling and edema. Regular walking or aerobic exercise strengthens the calf muscles, enhancing the venous return, while leg elevation decreases venous pressure when resting. Weight management and skin care are also important to minimize edema and prevent skin breakdown or ulcers. These approaches aim to control symptoms and slow progression without invasive procedures.

Surgical intervention is typically reserved for cases where conservative measures fail to provide relief or there are significant, disabling varicosities or complications. Anticoagulation and thrombolytic therapy are not part of the initial management of venous insufficiency unless there is a concurrent or suspected thrombotic event, such as deep vein thrombosis, in which case the treatment strategy changes accordingly.