Tried and Tested Lifestyle Changes for Patients with Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Veins play a major role in blood circulation; they carry the blood back to the heart. The valves in the veins stop the blood from flowing backwards, but if there is a malfunction in the veins that is responsible for returning blood from the limbs to the heart, it can result in venous insufficiency. This condition causes the blood to accumulate and pool in the veins of the legs. When this condition is experienced for a longer period, it is known as chronic venous insufficiency. This condition is mostly caused by varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, and blood clots.

In the United States, this condition is quite common. According to National Library of Medicine research, it is estimated that six to seven million people in the United States have chronic venous insufficiency. Moreover, every year approximately 150,000 new patients are diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency.

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, your healthcare provider will guide you with the appropriate treatment plan. However, not everyone suffering from chronic venous insufficiency requires medications, sometimes simple lifestyle changes can also lower the severity of symptoms and improve the quality of life.

So, if you are prone to this condition or have a family history of venous insufficiency, here’s a guide that will help you manage your symptoms and lower the chances of developing complications in this condition.

Importance of Lifestyle Changes for Patients with Chronic Venous Insufficiency

For patients with mild symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, your physician will recommend you follow some lifestyle changes. These changes will help in improving the blood flow in the legs and therefore reducing the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency.

Since lifestyle changes can reduce the symptoms, let’s discuss some of the tried and tested lifestyle changes that are highly effective for treating chronic venous insufficiency. If you are wondering how to improve venous insufficiency? The answers are given below.

Tried and Tested Lifestyle Changes for Chronic Venous Insufficiency Patients

• Exercise Regularly

  Blood pooling results in chronic venous insufficiency, however, regular exercising will help to improve blood flow in the body. It is recommended to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day to get the benefits. Some moderate-intensity exercises that can be done regularly are brisk walking, cycling, and yoga.

• Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

  Excessive body weight can create more pressure on the veins, which could lead to the pooling of blood. Thus, it is recommended to maintain a healthy body weight and make efforts to reduce excess weight if one is overweight or obese.

• Wear Compression Garments

  Compression garments encourage blood flow and create pressure on the legs hence reducing the pooling of blood in the legs. Compression garments include stockings and socks that are easily available in the market.

• Quit Smoking

  Regular smoking restricts blood circulation by narrowing the blood vessels. This causes severe damage to the vascular system. So, one should quit smoking to reduce the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency.

• Give Up the Sedentary Lifestyle

  Prolonged standing or seating can create pressure on the veins. So, give up the sedentary lifestyle and add regular movements to your routine. Take short breaks and go for a walk or do some small chores to incorporate movements.

• Keep Your Legs Elevated

  Elevate your legs for 10-15 minutes every day. This will increase blood flow and circulation. Moreover, it will also help in reducing swelling and pain caused by chronic venous insufficiency.

• Avoid Excessive Salt or Sodium Consumption

  Excessive salt or sodium consumption leads to water retention in the body. This excessive fluid adds pressure on the veins and results in swelling. That is why you should avoid food with high salt content.

• Refrain from Wearing Tight Clothing and High Heels

  Tight clothes restrict blood flow in the body, while wearing heels puts pressure to the limbs. So, it is highly recommended to refrain from wearing tight clothes and high heels when you have symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency. Wear loose clothes and flat shoes instead.

Easy Habits for Managing Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Apart from the major lifestyle changes, some of the easy habits that you can inculcate daily are.

• Eat fresh and healthy food.
• Moisturize and massage your legs.
• Increase activity levels.
• Stretch your muscles.
• Avoid any kind of strain on your legs.

Wrapping It Up

Chronic venous insufficiency can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are several lifestyle changes that can improve symptoms and prevent complications. By adopting a healthy diet, staying active, wearing compression stockings, and avoiding smoking and prolonged sitting, patients can take control of their health and improve their quality of life. Consult with a healthcare professional to create an individualized plan that works best for your specific needs.

How Can North Atlanta Vascular Clinic and Vein Center Help?

Chronic venous insufficiency can easily be managed by following these tried and tested lifestyle changes. If your symptoms are getting stronger and you are getting uncomfortable, then we highly recommend you reach out to our vein disease specialist and get a treatment plan based on your symptoms.

Contemplating finding the right physician? Well, your search ends here. We at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic provide comprehensive services for vascular care. Our highly qualified and trained physicians will provide the right treatment option for your venous disorder.Your health is our priority, so schedule your appointment today!

Content Source: NIH