Raising the legs
Especially in the case of inflammation of the deep veins, it is advisable to take it easy and support the affected leg. This improves the outflow of veins towards the heart. This measure can also be helpful in the context of deep vein thrombosis, which can result from a deep inflammation.
In this case, however, additional treatment in hospital is necessary. Patients with superficial inflammation, on the other hand, are actively advised to exercise. This improves blood circulation and prevents the formation of blood clots. Patients can find out which veins are inflamed and whether elevation is recommended from their treating physician.
Smoking and alcohol
During active phlebitis, patients should avoid stimulants such as alcohol and cigarettes at all costs. Since the body is already under a high level of stress during an inflammation, it can be harmful to put additional strain on it with alcohol or similar substances. In addition, some medications that the doctor might prescribe against the inflammation show interaction with alcohol. But also patients who have already had phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis should avoid cigarettes. Smoking, especially in combination with obesity and taking oral contraceptives (the pill), promotes the development of thrombosis.
Homeopathy and naturopathy
Herbal remedies against phlebitis are sweet clover, red vine leaves and horse chestnut. Sweet clover has an anti-inflammatory effect. It can also reduce swelling.
It contains anticoagulant substances, the coumarins. Horse chestnut has a similar effect. It also contains coumarins and has a dehydrating effect as well as promoting blood circulation. Red vine leaves have a decongestant and anti-inflammatory effect. Like the herbal remedies already mentioned, it has an easily blood-clotting effect.
The alternating bath
Alternating baths or alternating showers can, if used regularly, prevent or at least delay the development of a venous outflow disorder. By alternating between warm and cold water, the wall of the veins is trained. This is intended to prevent the flabbiness and sagging that is typical of a flow disorder.
They are rarely used in acute phlebitis. This method is easiest to perform in the shower. After an initially warm shower, cool to cold water is chosen.
The shower head is initially directed only at the feet. It can then be held a little higher until the legs are completely washed around. If you wish, you can extend the whole thing to the arms.
Alternating baths are usually done in a small foot bath. Here too, warm water is followed by cold water. Patients with thrombosis should not take alternating baths.
