According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem occurs most frequently among people between 30 and 40 years old.Places of manifestation of the disease: arms, shoulders, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.As a rule, varicose veins are most often felt in the legs, the symptoms of which constitute a serious aesthetic problem.
What are varicose veins in 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 in the legs and why do they develop?
The real problem is related to the alteration 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, blood passes in the opposite direction and a supply is formed in the superficial veins.
So everything develops sequentially.Since there is more blood in the connected veins, the load on them has increased and they also begin to expand.The blood, which should go completely to the deep veins, leaks back into the superficial ones, expanding them even more.As a result, noticeable bulging veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is a slowdown in blood movement, and this is a probable cause of thrombosis, which prevents the free flow of blood in the veins.
Varicose veins in the legs: symptoms and stages.
Varicose veins in the legs are manifested by the following symptoms:
- pain in problem areas;
- leg cramps;
- burning within the veins;
- swelling;
- pigmentation and compaction;
- walls of purple or purple veins;
- trophic ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the initial stage of varicose veins, and the following are characteristic of the progressive form.
Varicose veins: causes of appearance.
Varicose veins of the lower extremities arise under the influence of several reasons:
- overweight;
- nervous disorders;
- smoking;
- drink alcohol;
- excessive tanning;
- frequent visits to the sauna;
- abuse of hot baths;
- wearing 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 the parents had varicose veins, most likely their children will also develop this disease (probability: up to 75%).
- Nuances of work.Often, the pathology in question is characteristic of people who work standing.This position puts unnecessary pressure on the legs.People who work sitting also suffer from varicose veins.We are talking about the so-called “computer varicose veins”.
- Hormonal imbalance.The disease makes itself felt in the fair sex during puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant women and in women with menopause.Hormonal imbalances can cause blood stagnation.
- Age transformations.With age, the walls of venous vessels lose their elasticity and plasticity, the functionality of the valves is impaired and this can cause venous stagnation and subsequent dilation of the veins.
Traditional methods of treating varicose veins.
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.Pharmacological procedures are complemented by auxiliary therapy.Traditional methods have proven themselves (especially in the initial stages).
- One of the most effective home remedies is crushed garlic (with white skin) and butter (1:2 ratio).Problem areas are rubbed with the mixture, and the legs are wrapped in parchment paper on top (you can use a bandage or scarf).In the morning, you wash off the mixture and put something warm on your feet.
- In summer, slices of green tomatoes are tied to the diseased veins overnight, and in winter, tomato paste is tied.The 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 one-liter jar, which is half filled with leaves and then alcohol (70%) is poured.The medication is infused for two weeks.It is advisable 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 made from dandelion root.The root is dried and crushed.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Then the pork fat is added.You should get a creamy dough.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 in 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 in the legs, it is necessary to consult a specialist who will recommend anticoagulant medications.
- For mild pain, it is necessary to elevate the feet.While lying or sitting, place a pillow under your feet.It is also good to do the exercise with compression stockings.
- A good preventative measure is a cold shower.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 hot waxing 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.Even sea or regular salt will do.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, turn the top of your foot clockwise.So 15 rotations of each foot.
- The correct solution would be to perform exercises by lifting your toes.Stand on your heels and, holding your hand against the wall, make smooth movements 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 foods rich in vitamin E in your diet.These are egg yolk, wheat, beans, cabbage and dill.The venous system also needs vitamin P. Therefore, it is necessary to consume more foods that contain it: peanuts, walnuts, green tea, citrus.
In addition to all this, remember the basic rules:
- eat less fatty foods;
- do not cross one leg over the other;
- Avoid stockings with tight elastic bands or tight socks, uncomfortable shoes and heels that are too high.
Treating varicose veins is not an easy process.If you are at risk, carry out prevention in advance.
Knowing the causes of varicose veins in the legs and having discovered the first symptoms, take care of their 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.