According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem occurs most often among people between the ages of 30 and 40.Places of manifestation of the disease: arms, shoulders, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.As a rule, varicose veins are felt most often on the legs, the symptoms of which are a serious cosmetic problem.
What are varicose veins on the legs
Varicose veins affect the subcutaneous and deep veins.The latter lose their elasticity and original shape, expand, protrude strongly and become tortuous.As a result, seals are formed - "spider veins".What are varicose veins on the legs, why do they develop?
The real problem is related to the interruption of the direction of blood flow.The venous system of the legs consists of superficial, connecting and deep veins, in which there are special valves consisting of two valves that close and prevent the reverse movement of blood.When the superficial veins expand, the closure of the valves loosens.For this reason the blood circulates in the opposite direction and an influx is formed in the superficial veins.
So everything develops sequentially.Since there is more blood in the connected veins, the load on them is increased, and they also begin to expand.The blood, which should completely enter the deep veins, returns to the superficial ones, expanding them even more.As a result, noticeable swollen veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is a slowdown in the movement of blood, and this is a probable cause of thrombosis, which prevents the free flow of blood in the veins.
Varicose veins on the legs: symptoms and stages
Varicose veins on the legs are manifested by the following symptoms:
- pain in problem areas;
- leg cramps;
- burning inside the veins;
- swelling;
- pigmentation and compaction;
- purple or purple vein walls;
- trophic ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the initial stage of varicose veins, while the following are characteristic of the progressive form.
Varicose veins: causes of onset
Varicose veins of the lower extremities occur under the influence of a number of reasons:
- overweight;
- nervous disorders;
- smoking;
- drink alcohol;
- excessive tanning;
- frequent visits to the sauna;
- abuse of hot baths;
- wear tight socks, stockings.
Below we will take a closer look at other causes of varicose veins in the legs, identified by doctors.
- Genetic predisposition.If parents had varicose veins, their children will most likely also develop this disease (probability - up to 75%).
- Nuances of work.Often the pathology in question is characteristic of people engaged in standing work.This position puts unnecessary pressure on the legs.Even people who work sitting suffer from varicose veins.We are talking about the so-called "computerized varicose veins".
- Hormonal imbalance.The disease makes itself felt in the fair sex during puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant women and women in menopause.Hormonal imbalances can lead to blood stagnation.
- Age transformations.With age, the walls of the venous vessels lose elasticity and plasticity, the functionality of the valves is compromised and this can lead to venous stagnation and subsequent dilation of the veins.
Traditional methods of treatment of varicose veins
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.Pharmacological procedures are complemented by auxiliary therapy.Traditional methods have proven effective (especially in the initial stages).
- One of the most effective folk remedies is crushed garlic (with white peel) and butter (ratio - 1:2).Problem areas are rubbed with the mixture, and the legs are wrapped on top in parchment paper (you can use a bandage or scarf).In the morning, the mixture is washed off and something warm is put on the feet.
- In the summer, slices of green tomatoes are tied to the diseased veins overnight, and in the winter, tomato paste is tied.Lycopene, contained in tomatoes, protects the walls of blood vessels from overheating, increases their elasticity and reduces blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe will help alleviate the course of the disease.The product is prepared in a liter jar, into which 1/2 is filled with leaves, then alcohol (70%) is poured.The medicine is infused for two weeks.It is recommended to shake the solution daily.The resulting infusion is used to lubricate legs and feet before going to bed.The product relieves pain well.
- Fresh potatoes can also relieve pain.Grate several potatoes and apply the paste on your feet for about 4 hours.
- An ointment is prepared from dandelion root.The root is dried and crushed.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Pork fat is then added.You should get a creamy mass.The ointment should be stored in the refrigerator.
In addition to external use, there are recipes for decoctions that improve blood circulation.
Prevention of varicose veins on the legs
Compliance with preventive measures will help avoid the development and further progression of the disease.Experts recommend the following:
- At the first symptoms of varicose veins on the legs, you need to consult a specialist who will recommend blood-thinning medications.
- For mild pain you need to elevate your feet.While lying or sitting, place a pillow under your feet.It is also good to perform the exercise with compression stockings.
- A good preventative measure is a cool shower.The low temperature is good for blood circulation;hardens blood vessels.Therefore, it is highly recommended to massage your feet with a cold shower, especially if you have massage accessories.Hot baths, prolonged tanning and hair removal with hot wax are prohibited - these are factors that contribute to the development of the disease.
- Baths with infusions of calendula, St. John's wort, horsetail or horse chestnut are useful.Sea salt or regular salt will also work.The duration of the procedure is half an hour.
- If you have a sedentary job, don't forget to do a simple exercise.Crossing your legs, rotate the top of your foot clockwise.Then 15 rotations of each foot.
- The right solution would be to perform exercises with toe lifts.Stand on your heels and, holding your hand against the wall, make soft rolls on your toes.Do this a couple dozen times.In principle, any physical activity, even a regular walk, will improve blood circulation.
- Increase the proportion of vitamin E-rich foods in your diet.These are egg yolk, wheat, beans, cabbage, dill.The venous system also needs vitamin P. Therefore it is necessary to consume more foods that contain it: peanuts, nuts, green tea, citrus fruits.
In addition to all this, remember the basic rules:
- eat less fatty foods;
- do not cross one leg over the other;
- Avoid tights with tight elastic or tight socks, uncomfortable shoes and heels that are too high.
Treatment of varicose veins is not an easy process.If you are at risk, do prevention early.
Knowing the causes of varicose veins in the legs and having discovered the first symptoms, take care of its elimination and consult a doctor.
A healthy diet, following medical recommendations and folk recipes will help relieve pain, stop the development of the disease and eliminate its manifestations.