Varicose veins occur when the veins stretch and increase in size, take on a bluish or red hue due to the accumulation of a large amount of blood. Varicose veins are a widespread disease and in most cases they manifest on the legs, but they can also occur on other parts of the body.
For most people, especially women, varicose veins are primarily an aesthetic problem. In the early stages, the disease does not pose a health hazard. Swollen, 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.
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of developing varicose veins:
In addition to the characteristic formation of bulging dark blue or purple veins, here are the main signs of the development of varicose veins:
An effective approach to varicose vein problems requires an integrated approach that includes:
When the first symptoms of varicose veins appear, it is recommended to start wearing compression garments - socks, tights or leggings apply light pressure from the bottom of the leg upwards, reducing blood accumulation and reducing swelling. It is necessary to constantly wear such compression clothing, only in this case a positive effect can be achieved. Wearing a compression garment will not cure existing varicose veins, but it will help prevent or reduce varicose veins and further complications.
Laser endovenous ablation (radiofrequency or laser)
Laser endovenous ablation is by far the most effective and safest 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 connects a special device to the top of the catheter to heat and close or remove the varicose vein (depending on the ablation method chosen). The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and the patient usually returns home the same day.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy refers to gentle methods of treating varicose veins. During the procedure, a special substance is injected into a vein affected by varicose veins, which destroys the inner lining of the vein and causes blood to coagulate in it. Over time, the vein collapses and disappears.
Surgical method
In advanced cases of varicose veins, some particularly gentle methods of treatment are no longer effective. In this case, a patient suffering from varicose veins can be helped by surgery during which the superficial vein is surgically removed. Indications for surgery are ulcer, bleeding, phlebitis. The operation is performed under general anesthesia, as a rule the patient goes home the same day. Pain and discomfort may occur 2 weeks after surgery, this is normal.
Varicose Vein Training
Lots of movement and moderate exercise are the main allies in the fight against varicose veins. Not all workouts are equally beneficial, and some can 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 blood circulation by stretching and tightening 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 low pace works well on muscle sheets, but it has one drawback - running puts stress on our joints. If you are not ready to replace running with another activity, run on grass or rubber tracks, not on hard asphalt.
Elliptical and Indoor Bike
Exercising on an elliptical trainer and a stationary bike actively involves the calf muscles, which contributes to normal blood circulation.
Strength Training
Patients with varicose veins must avoid a lot of very intense resistance training, squats, lunges and sit-ups. 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 of which provokes the development of complications. It is recommended to wear compression stockings during and after strength training.
Today, pharmacies offer a wide range of drugs for the treatment of varicose veins in the form of tablets, drops, ointments, creams, gels.
Main groups of drugs used to treat varicose veins
Several groups of drugs are used to treat varicose veins: ointments, creams, tablets, less often injections.Characteristics of each of the following 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, so you can find the most cost-effective option for treating varicose veins.
Phlebotonics containing Diosmin
Diosmin belongs to the representatives of bioflavonoids and is found in many drugs to fight varicose veins. It has a venotonic effect, improves lymphatic drainage, improves microcirculation, reduces the adhesion of leukocytes to the venous wall and their migration into paravenous tissues, improves oxygen diffusion and perfusion in skin tissue and has anti-inflammatory effects. It blocks the production of free radicals, the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes.
Experimental studies have shown that diosmin doubles lymph outflow, increases venous wall tone, suppresses leukocyte activity and prevents inflammation.
This is a group of drugs that affect the blood clotting system, preventing the adhesion of formed elements, platelets. Antiplatelet agents are another name for drugs from this group, because in fact natural or synthetic substances block the adhesion of platelets and inhibit 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 slow down oxidation processes and aging processes. Drugs from this group can be prescribed in the complex treatment of varicose veins. They help improve the elasticity and elasticity of the walls of blood vessels, strengthen them and prolong the normal life of every cell in the walls and the smallest veins.
Often, varicose veins are accompanied by pain and swelling. To restore lightness to the legs, 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 doctors of this specialty. It should be borne in mind that some narrow specialists are also able to help in the treatment of varicose veins - this is an angiologist and a vascular surgeon. A general practitioner can also help diagnose the disease and refer the patient to an appropriate specialist.
Remember that in the initial stages of the disease, pronounced clinical manifestations are usually absent. Therefore, if you suspect varicose veins, you should immediately contact a qualified professional who will diagnose. The diagnosis of varicose veins is usually made taking into account the patient's complaints, examination of the lower extremities, as well as data from laboratory and instrumental research methods. Convincing the development of the disease and taking timely measures to prevent it is possible only after a thorough examination of the patient.
All modern ointments are prescribed as an adjunct to the main treatment of varicose veins with drugs. Local treatment helps to achieve a complex effect on the problem.
It is recommended to use creams, gels and ointments in complex treatment, as well as for prophylactic purposes. Especially for people who have a genetic predisposition for varicose veins. In any case, when the first symptoms appear, urgent measures must be taken. Otherwise, the disease can develop and cause serious discomfort.
Local treatment of varicose veins is an important therapeutic tool that, in addition to drugs, exercise therapy and prevention, contributes to the return of a healthy vascular system:
The use of ointments 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 varicose veins based on heparin are produced under different names, differ from each other in the presence of excipients in the composition that modify the action and effects, and have different manufacturers.
Heparin is a unique substance, so it is included in many drugs for the treatment and prevention of varicose veins. Your doctor will tell you which ointment to choose to treat varicose veins on your legs. In addition to heparin-based ointments, there are herbal preparations that are no less effective in preventing the development of varicose veins.
Plant components of fats are complex natural substances that act in a complex with varicose veins, strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve blood circulation.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve pain and inflammation in varicose veins. NSAID-based ointments alleviate the general condition of patients with varicose veins and can accelerate the healing process.
There are no significant differences between topical preparations in the form of ointments, gels or creams, however, ointments and creams are made on the basis of vegetable or animal fats, and the active ingredients in them do not dissolve completely.
Gels are produced on a water basis, which is why all active ingredients in them dissolve completely, without residues, which contributes to faster penetration and absorption into the skin.
Topical varicose veins should always be applied to clean skin. They must 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. A consultation with a specialist is required, you should not treat yourself. Only after the diagnosis is made will the doctor be able to prescribe treatment that includes medications for internal and external use. In this case, the patient with varicose veins must lead a healthy lifestyle.