Unfortunately, chronic venous insufficiency, also known as CVI, is a more common health problem than you may think. In fact, it affects up to 40 percent of the US population.
The condition develops when the leg vein valves fail to function optimally and thus, cause a collection of blood in the legs.
With the blood piling up in the extremities, the individual experiences venous pressure and poor blood flow to the heart.
Even though the condition is more frequent in women, particularly after several pregnancies, everyone, at every age, can be affected.
What Are the Symptoms of CVI?
Some of the major symptoms of this condition are swollen legs and ankles, tightness in the calves, leg ulcers, and varicose veins. When left untreated, this health issue can lead to severe complications like blood clotting and pulmonary embolism.
With the progression of the disease, the symptoms tend to worsen and it can be divided into three different stages, i.e.:
Stage 1 (edema and pigmentation changes), stage 2 (edema, pigmentation changes and dermatitis), and stage 3(edema, pigmentation changes, ulcers, and varicosities).
What Are the Risk Factors & Treatment Options?
Some of the possible factors that can elevate your chance of CVI are obesity, lack of physical activity, leg injury or trauma or a job that involves a lot of time on the feet.
The treatment for this condition may involve exercise, compression therapy, medications, surgery or laser treatments. There are also natural treatments available for this condition and their focus is on boosting the blood flow and reducing the symptoms.
5 Natural Ways to Manage CVI Easier
- Stop smoking if you are a smoker
Smoking is not just bad for the lungs, but for all parts and organs of the body and blood vessels. So, giving up cigarettes and avoiding second-hand smoke can help reverse heart and blood vessel damage. Giving up this addictive habit is not easy and may not just require will, persistence, and dedication, but helpful methods like yoga, meditation, and tai chi too.
- Lift up the legs, three to four times per day
Experts explain that patients with CVI pain and discomfort can experience immediate relief when they elevate the legs above the heart, three to four times per day or as needed, for 15 minutes. This will also help lower the swollenness and reduce the tightness in the legs.
- Start working out
Poor blood flow can lead to CVI, but when you exercise, you strengthen the muscles and boost the blood flow. So, the movement of blood from the legs back to the heart will be much easier. Walking can be highly beneficial, as well as swimming, ankle exercises, and stationary bike.
- Take horse chestnut
Did you know that horse chestnut has long been a popular natural remedy for the treatment of leg cramps, digestive problems, and joint ache? According to some reviews of its use for CVI, it can be an effective and safe method for reduction of the symptoms.
You must never consume it raw because it is poisonous. Opt for a quality supplement and make sure you do not take it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, suffer from a bleeding disorder, kidney illness, diabetes, allergy to latex, and digestive problems. The best way is to consult your physician prior to deciding on a supplement.
- Try butcher’s broom
This is yet another supplement which has been linked with reduction in symptoms. Plus, it possesses pro-blood flow properties and thus, it is a common CVI natural remedy.
But, it is not for everyone, especially not for diabetics, people with digestive issues, people who take prescribed meds like those for heart disease and pregnant and nursing women. This is why it is important to consult your physician prior to taking it.
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