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Dealing With CVI: Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Vein Health

Millions of men and women suffer from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a leg vein disease that develops when normal circulation in your legs is impeded or interrupted. While some people with CVI may not even realize they have a leg vein disease until they have a vein evaluation, many others suffer from varicose veins and spider veins, which commonly form as a result of poor leg circulation. If you’ve been diagnosed with CVI, there are some simple things you can do (in addition to visiting your vein specialist) to improve your vein health. Here are five ideas to get you started.

5 Tips to Reduce the Risks of CVI

• Use compression socks or stockings. Compression socks exert gentle pressure on your veins to keep blood flowing in the right direction. Compression socks come in different pressure strengths, and while you can buy the socks "off the rack," it’s better to have a prescription based on your specific needs.


• Keep an eye on your weight. Excess pounds place a lot of pressure on the tiny valves inside your leg veins, which means they’re more likely to malfunction, causing varicose veins and other circulation problems. Losing weight reduces this stress, along with your risk of varicose veins.


• Get moving. Walking and other physical activity improves circulation and tones your calf muscles, which also help keep blood flowing back toward the heart. Plus, being more active makes it easier to maintain that healthy weight.


• Watch your diet. Specifically, avoid foods high in sodium, which can increase your blood pressure. Also avoid foods with unhealthy fats that can increase your blood cholesterol, making it more difficult for blood to circulate. Instead, aim for high-fiber foods like whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables that may improve your overall circulation.


• Elevate your feet. Keeping your feet up – ideally above the level of your heart – while you chill on the couch relieves pressure on the tiny valves in your veins. At work, use a low footstool under your desk and get up and move on a regular basis to reduce the risk of varicose veins and improve your overall circulation.

State-of-the-Art Vein Treatment in Missoula, Montana

Chronic venous insufficiency can be managed – but it’s critically important to get the medical care you need to reduce your risks for serious side effects associated with poor vein health. Dr. David Bellamah is a top provider of advanced varicose vein treatments for men and women throughout the greater Missoula area, offering customized solutions aimed at achieving optimal results. If you have varicose veins, spider veins or symptoms like fatigue or pain in your legs or feet, having your symptoms medically evaluated in the first step toward better vein health.

To learn more about the vein treatment options Dr. Bellamah offers or to schedule an office visit and vein health evaluation, call Bellamah Vein Center at (406) 203-1866 or use our online contact form to request an appointment today.