According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem occurs more often among 30-40 year olds.Places of manifestation of the disease: arms, shoulders, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.In general, varicose veins most often make themselves felt on the legs, the symptoms of which are 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 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 form?
The real problem has to do with disrupting the direction of blood flow.The venous system of the legs consists of superficial, connecting and deep veins, which have special two-valve valves that close and prevent the reverse movement of blood.When the superficial veins dilate, the closure of the valves loosens.Because of this, the blood moves in the opposite direction and a supply is formed in the superficial veins.
Then it turns into every row.Since there is more blood in the connecting veins, their load has increased and they begin to expand.Blood, which should go completely into the deep veins, seeps back into the superficial ones, thereby dilating even more.As a result, noticeable bulging veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the development of reverse blood flow is the slowing of blood movement, and this is the likely 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 walls of blood vessels;
- trophic ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the initial stage of varicose veins, and the others are characteristic of progressive veins.
Varicose veins: causes of occurrence
Varicose veins of the lower limbs occur due to a number of reasons:
- overweight;
- nervous system disorders;
- smoking;
- alcohol consumption;
- excessive tanning;
- frequent visits to the sauna;
- abuse of hot baths;
- wears tight socks and stockings.
Below we will take a closer look at other causes of varicose veins in the legs that have been identified by doctors.
- Genetic predisposition.If the parents had varicose veins, their children are likely to develop this disease as well (probability - up to 75%).
- Shades of work.The pathology in question is often 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 fairer sex during puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant women and menopausal women.Hormonal imbalance can lead to blood stagnation.
- Age transformations.With advancing age, the walls of venous vessels lose their elasticity and plasticity, the functioning of the valves is impaired, which can lead to venous stasis and then dilation of the veins.
Traditional methods of treating varicose veins
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.Drug procedures are complemented by complementary therapy.Traditional methods are well proven (especially in the initial stages).
- One of the most effective folk remedies is crushed garlic (with white skin) and butter (ratio - 1:2).The problem areas are rubbed with the mixture and the legs are wrapped in parchment paper (you can use a bandage or a scarf).In the morning, we wash off the mixture and put something warm on our feet.
- In the summer, slices of green tomatoes are tied overnight to the diseased blood vessels, and in the winter, tomato paste.The lycopene found in tomatoes protects the walls of blood vessels from overheating, increases their elasticity and lowers blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe helps alleviate the course of the disease.The preparation is prepared in a liter jar, which is filled 1/2 with leaves, and then alcohol (70%) is poured into it.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 to your feet for about 4 hours.
- Ointment is made from dandelion root.The root is dried and crushed.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Then add pork fat.You should get a creamy mass.The ointment should be stored in the refrigerator.
In addition to external use, there are recipes for potions that improve blood circulation.
Prevention of varicose veins on the legs
Adherence to preventive measures helps to avoid the development and further progression of the disease.Experts recommend the following:
- At the first symptoms of varicose veins on the legs, you should consult a specialist who recommends blood-thinning drugs.
- In case of mild pain, you should raise your leg.Place a pillow under your feet while lying down or sitting down.It is also good to do the exercise in compression stockings.
- A good preventive measure is a cold shower.The low temperature is good for blood circulation;hardens the 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.
- Infusion baths 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 do sedentary work, do not forget to do a simple exercise.Crossing your legs, rotate your top foot clockwise.So 15 turns with each leg.
- The correct solution is to perform exercises with the lifting of the toes.Stand on your heels and roll onto your toes with your hands against the wall.Do this a few dozen times.In principle, any physical activity, even regular walking, improves blood circulation.
- Increase the proportion of foods rich in vitamin E in your diet.These are egg yolks, wheat, beans, cabbage, dill.The venous system also needs vitamin P.Therefore, you should eat more foods that contain: peanuts, walnuts, 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 rubber bands or tight socks, uncomfortable shoes, and shoes that are too high.
Treatment of varicose veins is not a simple process.If you are at risk, do prevention in advance.
Knowing the causes of varicose veins in the legs and after discovering the first symptoms, take care of its elimination and consult a doctor.
Following a healthy diet, medical recommendations and folk recipes will help relieve pain, stop the development of the disease and get rid of its manifestations.