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Comprehensive Natural and Lifestyle Strategies to Deal with Chronic Venous Insufficiency *ONLINE ONLY*
September 2024
By Suzy Cohen, R.Ph.

Have you noticed your legs swelling after a long day or the appearance of varicose veins? You're not alone. Many people endure swelling, skin changes, and discomfort, often without realizing these are signs of the condition, and the whole time it is progressing.

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when veins in the legs can't return blood efficiently to the heart, causing blood to pool. It leads to swelling, pain, and varicose veins. Lymphedema involves a buildup of lymph fluid in your tissues due to a compromised lymphatic system, resulting in swelling, mainly in the arms or legs.

Your doctor can help you. Diuretics may be prescribed to reduce fluid buildup, but they should be used cautiously as they can deplete essential nutrients, something I call the ‘drug mugger’ effect.

Certain natural remedies are useful and they don’t have the side effects of medications. Vitamins and minerals can help manage CVI and lymphedema. Let’s go over those now.

Vitamin C: This essential nutrient is known for its role in collagen production and tissue repair. Vitamin C helps strengthen the walls of veins and capillaries, reducing swelling due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Flavonoids: Found in many fruits and vegetables, flavonoids like diosmin and hesperidin are known for improving vein elasticity and reducing inflammation.

Magnesium: This mineral is crucial for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function. It helps regulate muscle tone in the vascular walls, improving blood flow, and is essential for heart health.

Zinc: Zinc is vital for maintaining skin integrity and mucosal membranes, promoting wound healing, which is crucial for skin affected by lymphedema.

Selenium: This trace mineral acts as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress that can lead to vascular damage.

Some supplements can interact with medications and blood thinners that your doctor prescribed so ask your doctor what’s right for you. Next, let’s talk about effective home strategies starting with the most important one, compression:

1. Compression Therapy: Compression stockings are a cornerstone because they can help with blood flow back to the heart, reduce discomfort and swelling, and prevent further vein damage by supporting the vein walls.

2. Exercise: Regular, low-impact exercise improves circulation and reduces symptoms. Activities such as walking, leg lifts, ankle pumps, and swimming are beneficial.

3. Leg Elevation: Elevating your legs above your heart several times a day can help reduce swelling and improve blood return to the heart.

4. Healthy Weight and Diet: A balanced diet and hydration are important. Limit sodium chloride (table salt) intake to reduce water retention.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting. Set reminders to get up and walk around periodically. Try not to cross your legs for extended periods.

Managing CVI and lymphedema requires a lifelong commitment. If you’d like more information as well as herbal remedies which are not listed here, read the longer version of this article, it is posted at suzycohen.com.” If you’d like to read the longer version of this article, it is posted at suzycohen.com.

This information is not intended to treat, cure, or diagnose your condition. Always consult your physician for all medical matters. Visit www.SuzyCohen.com. ©2024 Suzy Cohen, R.Ph. Distributed by Dear Pharmacist, Inc.

  

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