For most people, especially women, varicose veins are primarily an aesthetic problem. In the early stages, the disease does not pose a threat to health. Swollen and ugly veins can spoil the appearance of certain parts of the body, but if you do not pay attention to the treatment and prevention of varicose veins, complications can develop over time.
A number of factors may increase the risk of developing varicose veins:
In addition to the characteristic swollen veins of dark blue or purple, here are the main signs of the development of varicose veins:
To effectively treat the problem of varicose veins, an integrated approach is needed, which includes:
When the first symptoms of varicose veins appear, it is recommended to start wearing tight-fitting clothes - socks, tights or leggings apply light pressure from the bottom of the foot upwards, reducing blood accumulation and reducing swelling. It is necessary to wear such compressive clothing constantly, only in this case it is possible to achieve a positive effect. Wearing compression garments will not cure existing varicose veins, but will help prevent or reduce varicose veins and further complications.
Sparing and surgical methods of treatmentEndovenous laser ablation (radio frequency or laser)
The method of laser intravenous removal is the most effective and safe way to treat varicose veins. It is the use of laser or radio frequency therapy, with the help of which the varicose vein is closed or removed. The doctor makes a small incision in the skin near the vein and inserts a catheter into it, then a special device is connected to the tip of the catheter, with which the catheter is heated and closes or removes the varicose vein (depending on the ablation method chosen). The procedure is performed using local anesthesia and the patient usually returns home the same day.
Scleotherapy
Scleotherapy refers to the gentle methods of treating varicose veins. During the procedure, a special substance is injected into the vein affected by varicose veins, which destroys the inner lining of the vein and causes blood to clot inside it. Over time, the vein collapses and disappears.
Surgical Method
In advanced cases of varicose veins, some particularly mild methods of treatment are no longer effective. In this case, a patient suffering from varicose veins can be assisted by an operation, during which the superficial vein is surgically removed. Indications for surgery are ulcers, bleeding, phlebitis. The operation is performed under general anesthesia, as a rule, the patient goes home on the same day. Pain and discomfort may occur for 2 weeks after surgery, this is normal.
Training for varicose veins
Many moderate movements and exercises are key allies in the fight against varicose veins. Not all exercises are equally beneficial, and some may even harm a person suffering from varicose veins.
Moderate, rhythmic physical activity, such as walking, prevents disease progression and complications because dynamic muscle movements help direct blood from the periphery to the heart.
Walking is great for preventing varicose veins, this type of physical activity promotes healthy circulation by stretching and contracting the venous pump in the calf muscles. Walk for at least 30 minutes at least 5 times a week.
Low Intensity Running
Running at a slow pace works well for the calf muscles, but there is one drawback - running brings stress to our joints. If you are not ready to replace running with another activity, run on grass or rubber trails, not on hard asphalt.
Elliptical and exercise bike
Exercising on the elliptical trainer and stationary bike actively engages the calf muscles, this contributes to normal blood circulation.
Strength training
Patients with varicose veins should avoid a lot of highly resistant resistance training, squats, lines and pressure. All of them negatively affect the course of the disease and contribute to its further development. During prolonged muscle tension, blood accumulates in the veins of the legs, blood circulation deteriorates, all this provokes the development of complications. It is recommended to wear compression stockings during and after strength training.
Today, pharmacies offer a wide range of medicines for treating varicose veins in the form of tablets, drops, oils, creams, gels.
The main groups of drugs used to treat varicose veins
For the treatment of varicose veins, several groups of medicines are used: oils, creams, tablets, less often injections.
Characteristics of each of the listed groups:
To solve the problem, it is necessary to increase the tone of the veins. Therefore, patients with varicose veins are prescribed phlebotonics (venotonics). The main task of drugs with venotonic properties is to strengthen weak blood vessels and normalize blood circulation.
Phlebotonics vary in composition and price range, therefore, for the treatment of varicose veins, you may find the most cost-effective medication option.
Phlebotonics containing Diosmin
Diosmin belongs to the representatives of bioflavonoids and is found in many medicines for the fight against varicose veins. It has a venotonic effect, improves lymphatic drainage, improves microcirculation, reduces the adhesion of leukocytes to the venous wall and their migration to paravenous tissues, improves oxygen diffusion and perfusion in skin tissue and has anti-inflammatory effect. Blocks the production of free radicals, the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxane.Experimental studies have shown that diosmin doubles lymph output, increases venous wall tone, suppresses leukocyte activity, and prevents inflammation.
This is a group of drugs that affect the blood coagulation system, preventing the adhesion of formed elements, platelet plaques. Platelet agents are another name for drugs in this group because, in fact, natural or synthetic substances block platelet adhesion and prevent the formation of blood clots, which is often necessary in the treatment of varicose veins of the lower extremities. .
Antioxidants are substances that inhibit the peroxidation of lipids and proteins in the cell membrane, bind free radicals and thus slow down the oxidation and aging processes. Drugs in this group can be prescribed in the complex treatment of varicose veins. They help to improve the elongation and elasticity of the walls of blood vessels, strengthen them and extend the normal life of any cell in the walls of even the smallest veins.
Often, varicose veins are associated with pain and swelling. To restore ease of walking, decongestants are often prescribed in the complex treatment of varicose veins. They improve the outflow of lymph from the affected areas, remove excess fluid from the body.
As a rule, a phlebologist is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins. Unfortunately, not all medical institutions offer a doctor of this specialty. It should be borne in mind that some close specialists are also able to offer assistance in the treatment of varicose veins - this is an angiologist and a vascular surgeon. The GP can also help diagnose the disease and refer the patient to the right specialist.
Remember that in the early stages of the disease, pronounced clinical manifestations are usually absent. Therefore, if you suspect varicose veins, you should immediately contact a qualified specialist who will diagnose. As a rule, the diagnosis of varicose veins is carried out taking into account the patient's complaints, examination of the lower extremities, as well as data from laboratory and instrumental research methods. It is impossible to be sure of the development of the disease and take timely measures to prevent it only after a thorough examination of the patient.
All modern ointments are prescribed except for the main treatment of varicose veins with medication. Local treatment helps to achieve a complex effect on the problem.
It is recommended to use creams, gels and oils in complex treatment, as well as for prophylactic purposes. Especially for people who have a genetic predisposition to varicose veins. In any case, when the first symptoms appear, urgent measures should be taken. Otherwise, the disease can develop and cause severe anxiety.
Local treatment of varicose veins is an important therapeutic tool that, together with medication, exercise therapy and prevention, contributes to restoring a healthy circulatory system:
The use of oils for the treatment of varicose veins is regulated by a phlebologist, who takes into account the indications and contraindications for their use. Therefore, despite the simplicity of such a drug, its use alone, without consulting a doctor, is unacceptable.
Ointments for the treatment and prevention of heparin-based varicose veins are produced under different names, they differ from each other in the presence of excipients in the composition that modify the action and effects manifested and also have different manufacturers.
Heparin is a unique substance, therefore it is included in many medicines for the treatment and prevention of varicose veins. The doctor will tell you which oil to choose for treating varicose veins in the legs. In addition to heparin-based oils, there are herbal preparations that are no less effective in preventing the development of varicose veins.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve pain and inflammation in varicose veins. NSAID-based ointments alleviate the overall condition of the patient with varicose veins and can speed up the healing process.
There are no significant differences between day preparations in the form of an oil, gel or cream, however, oils and creams are made on the basis of vegetable or animal fats and the active ingredients in them are not completely digested.
Gels are produced on the basis of water, therefore, all the active ingredients in them are completely dissolved, without residues, which contributes to faster penetration and absorption into the skin.
Current varicose veins should always be applied to clean skin. They should be used regularly, especially in severe forms of the disease. Remember, varicose vein disease is not a simple disease and an integrated approach is needed here. Consultation with a specialist is required, you should not treat yourself. Only after the diagnosis is made, the doctor will be able to prescribe treatment, which includes medications for internal and external use. In this case, a patient with varicose veins should lead a healthy lifestyle.