One of the problems faced by many women and around 15% of men is varicose veins in the legs. In this disease, the vessels in the legs (veins) that return carbon dioxide-rich blood and metabolic waste products are deformed, widened, lose their tone and appear under the skin.
In addition to cosmetic defects, changes in the structure of the veins and impaired blood flow lead to unpleasant sensations in the legs and even pain, edema and a feeling of heaviness. While there are various medical tools and procedures that can help with treatment, it is important to take preventive action from the very beginning as soon as the first signs of varicose veins appear - this will help prevent pain, swelling, tired legs and external cosmetic defectsx / p>
What's the problem?
Varicose veins, commonly called varicose veins, are serious changes in the vein wall, the weakness of which, excessive stretching, due to which dark blue or purple twisted swollen veins appear under the skin. In the initial stage, small "stars" made up of enlarged capillaries, small wreaths and then larger ones can appear
Veins have a special structure: in addition to the elastic wall, they also have small valves (pockets) that prevent blood from flowing in the opposite direction. Varicose veins form when the valves on the walls of the veins weaken, stretch, deform, and do not close completely. Excessive stretching of the walls and valve defects ultimately cause the blood to flow poorly through the vessels, slowing down its movement and even stopping it. At first, small veins appear in the form of "stars" or spider legs, and then thicker twisted veins appear.
Other symptoms of varicose veins can manifest as:
- Burning calf, throbbing sensation;
- discomfort in the legs, feeling heaviness or pain;
- muscle cramps, cramps, more noticeable at night;
- swelling of the feet and ankles;
- dry or itchy, pale skin that looks thinner than healthy skin
If there is a tendency to develop varicose veins or the first symptoms appear, there are a number of procedures that will relieve discomfort and pain in the legs, improve blood circulation, and tighten the veins.
Movement and physical activity
Regular exercise improves blood circulation in the legs. The muscle contraction helps push the blood that has accumulated in the veins. Exercise also helps lower blood pressure, which is another negative factor that contributes to varicose veins.
Low-intensity exercise helps in the contraction of the calf muscles. You work without undue stress.
Effective, low impact exercises include:
- swim;
- go;
- cycling;
- Yoga.
Compression stockings and tights
Compression stockings are available from most pharmacies and orthopedic stores. They distribute the pressure on the legs and compress the walls of the veins from the outside. It helps move blood to the heart and relieve blood congestion in the lower extremities. The study found that people who used knee-length compression stockings maintained pressures between 18 and 21 mmHg. A reduction in pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins was noted within a week. It is important to choose stockings and tights with a doctor or salon professional so as not to confuse yourself with the degree of compression.
plant extracts
Studies have shown that horse chestnut extract can help relieve leg pain, heaviness, and itchy skin in people with chronic venous insufficiency (this is a major cause of varicose veins).
A review study found that maritime pine extract and butcher's broom extract can reduce swelling or edema of the legs, which is often associated with varicose veins.
Plant extracts and essential oils should be diluted before they are applied to the skin or used in an aromatherapy diffuser.
Diet change
Salty or high sodium foods contribute to swelling, including on the feet and ankles. So reducing salty foods can minimize water retention. Foods rich in potassium, like almonds and pistachios, help prevent and treat varicose veins by decreasing water retention in the body. This group includes:
- almonds and pistachios;
- lentils and white beans;
- potato;
- leafy vegetables;
- some species of fish like salmon and tuna.
Dietary fiber helps maintain bowel function and prevents constipation. This can be important as stress can damage the valves or clog blood in the veins. High fiber foods include:
- nuts, seeds and legumes;
- oats, wheat and flaxseed;
- Whole grain products.
Obese people are more likely to suffer from varicose veins. So when you lose extra pounds it can decrease pressure on the veins, reduce swelling and discomfort.
Flavonoids in foods
Adding foods that contain flavonoids to your diet also helps reduce your risk of varicose veins. Flavonoids are biologically active substances that improve blood flow, ensure even blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood pooling in the veins. They also help lower blood pressure in the arteries and relax blood vessels, relieve stress on veins, and reduce the risk of varicose veins.
Foods that contain flavonoids include:
- Vegetables: spring onions, peppers, spinach and broccoli;
- citrus fruits and grapes, cherries, apples and blueberries;
- cocoa;
- garlic.
Herbal remedies
Some herbal supplements help tighten the veins and reduce their deformation. It is believed that taking grape seed extract can reduce leg swelling and other symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, although there is currently little evidence of its effectiveness. If you drink blood-thinning medications, avoid taking grape seed extract as a dietary supplement, as it can interact with the medication and increase the risk of bleeding.
Choosing the right clothing
Wearing tight, tight, synthetic clothing can restrict the blood flow in your legs. Wearing loose, breathable clothing that does not restrict blood supply to the lower body improves blood flow to the veins and reduces valve deformation.
It is also forbidden to wear tight and tight shoes. Narrow-toe shoes put pressure on blood vessels and cause pain. It is recommended to choose shoes with orthopedic insoles.
Wearing low-heeled shoes or a comfortable, sturdy sole instead of high heels can also help relieve the pain from varicose veins in the legs.
The legs must be lifted more often
Regularly lifting your legs upwards, ideally at the same height as your heart or higher, helps improve blood flow. This reduces the pressure in the veins of the legs, and gravity helps the blood return to the heart smoothly. You should try lifting your legs if you plan to sit for long periods of time, such as whenB. when working or resting.
Massage
By gently massaging your feet, legs and thighs, the blood can stay in your veins. You can use gentle massage oils or moisturizers for best results. However, it is extremely important to avoid putting pressure directly on the veins as this can damage fragile tissues. No less useful massage with water jets in the shower, including a contrast massage.
Constant movement
Avoid sitting for long periods of time. If you have to sit at work for long periods of time, you need to make an effort to get up and move, or at least change positions frequently so that the blood from the legs completely flows through the veins
Avoid sitting cross-legged as this can further restrict blood flow to the legs and feet and worsen circulatory problems.
Treatment method for varicose veins
If preventive measures at home have not improved the condition of your veins, there is severe discomfort, pain and swelling, then medical treatment is needed to get rid of varicose veins.
The doctor can prescribe the following:
- Endothermic Ablation.This is a procedure that uses heat to seal the affected veins.
- Outpatient phlebectomyThe doctor pierces the skin and removes the varicose veins through small incisions. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, there are practically no scars left;
- Sclerotherapy.This procedure uses a special foam to close damaged veins. The blood flows through the bypass venous system;
- Ligation and removal.In this procedure, varicose veins are surgically removed;
- Laser operations.Intense flashes of light are directed onto the vein, causing it to fade.
- Endoscopic surgery.During this operation, a tiny video camera is inserted into the leg so that the surgeon can better see what is happening to the veins. The veins are removed through several small incisions.
Future predictions
Varicose veins cause discomfort and cosmetic defects. Prevention of varicose veins at home is possible, and changes in diet and lifestyle can reduce uncomfortable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, you need to seek medical help to get rid of visible defects and to heal the veins themselves.