According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem occurs more often in people aged 30 to 40.Places of manifestation of the disease: arms, shoulders, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.As a rule, varicose veins are most often felt on the legs, the symptoms of which constitute a serious aesthetic problem.
What are varicose veins on the legs
Varicose veins affect the subcutaneous and deep veins.The latter lose their elasticity and their original shape, expand, protrude greatly 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 disruption in 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 dilate, the closure of the valves relaxes.For this reason, blood flows in the opposite direction and a supply is formed in the superficial veins.
Then everything develops sequentially.As there is more blood in the veins connecting them, the load on them has increased and they also begin to grow.Blood, which should flow entirely into the deep veins, seeps into the superficial veins, thereby dilating them even further.As a result, visible protruding veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is a slowdown in blood movement, which is probably a cause of thrombosis, which prevents the free flow of blood through 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 in 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, and the following ones are characteristic of the progressive form.
Varicose veins: causes of appearance
Varicose veins of the lower extremities occur under the influence of several 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, it is highly likely that their children will also develop this disease (probability up to 75%).
- Nuances of work.Often the pathology in question is characteristic of people working while standing.This position puts unnecessary pressure on your legs.People who work in a sitting position also suffer from varicose veins.We are talking about what is called “IT varicose veins”.
- Hormonal imbalance.The disease is felt in women from puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant women and postmenopausal women.Hormonal imbalances can lead to blood stagnation.
- Age-related changes.With age, the walls of venous vessels lose their elasticity and plasticity, the functionality of the valves is impaired, which can lead to venous stagnation and subsequent dilation of the veins.
Traditional methods of treating varicose veins
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.Drug procedures are supplemented with auxiliary therapy.Traditional methods have proven themselves (especially in the early stages).
- One of the most effective folk remedies is crushed garlic (with white skin) and butter (ratio - 1:2).Problem areas are rubbed with the mixture, and the legs are wrapped in baking paper (you can use a bandage or scarf).In the morning, the mixture is washed off and something warm is put on your feet.
- In summer, slices of green tomatoes are tied to diseased veins overnight and in winter, tomato paste is tied.Lycopene contained in tomatoes protects the walls of blood vessels from overheating, increases their elasticity and lowers blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe will help alleviate the course of the disease.The product is prepared in a liter jar, into which half is filled with leaves, then alcohol (70%) is poured.The medicine is infused for two weeks.It is advisable to shake the solution daily.The resulting infusion is used to lubricate the 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 thickened.Then pork fat is 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 progression of the disease.Experts recommend the following:
- At the first symptoms of varicose veins on the legs, you should consult a specialist who will recommend anticoagulant drugs.
- In case of 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 cool shower.Low temperature is good for blood circulation;it hardens the blood vessels.It is therefore strongly 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.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, rotate the top of your foot clockwise.So 15 rotations of each foot.
- The correct solution would be to perform exercises by raising your toes.Stand on your heels and, holding your hand against the wall, gently roll onto your toes.Do this several dozen times.In principle, any physical activity, even regular walking, will improve blood circulation.
- Increase the proportion of foods rich in vitamin E in your diet.These are egg yolk, wheat, beans, cabbage, dill.The venous system also needs vitamin P. It is therefore necessary to consume more foods that contain it: peanuts, nuts, green tea, citrus fruits.
Besides all this, remember the basic rules:
- eat less fatty foods;
- do not cross one leg over the other;
- Avoid tights with tight elastics 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 of 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 get rid of its manifestations.