According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem occurs more often in people aged 30-40.Where the disease manifests: arms, shoulders, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.As a rule, varicose veins often cause sensation in the legs, the symptoms of this disease are a serious cosmetic problem.
What are varicose veins in the legs?
Varicose veins affect subcutaneous and deep veins.The latter lose their elasticity and original shape, expand, protrude strongly and become crooked.As a result, seals are formed - “spider veins”.What are varicose veins in the legs, why do they develop?
The real problem involves disruption of the direction of blood circulation.The venous system in the legs includes superficial veins, connecting veins and deep veins, which have special valves including two valves that close and prevent the backward movement of blood.As the superficial veins dilate, the closure of the valves becomes lax.For this reason, blood is transfused in the opposite direction and the supply is formed in the superficial veins.
Then everything develops sequentially.Since there is more blood in the connecting veins, the load on them increases and they also begin to dilate.Blood that should have gone completely into the deep veins instead seeps back into the superficial veins, thus expanding them even more.As a result, noticeable bulging veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is that the movement of blood is slowed down and this can be the cause of thrombosis, preventing 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 inside the veins;
- swelling;
- pigmentation and compactness;
- purple or purple vein walls;
- Nutritional ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the initial stage of varicose veins, and the following symptoms are characteristic of the advanced form.
Varicose veins: causes of appearance
Varicose veins of the lower limbs occur under the influence of a number of reasons:
- overweight;
- neurological disorders;
- smoke;
- drinking alcohol;
- excessive tanning;
- regularly visit the sauna;
- abuse of hot baths;
- Wear tight socks, wear long socks.
Below we will take a closer look at other causes of varicose veins in the legs identified by doctors.
- Genetic predisposition.If parents have varicose veins, it is very likely that their children will also have this disease (probability up to 75%).
- Shades of work.Usually the pathology in question is characteristic of people who do permanent work.This position puts unnecessary pressure on your legs.People who sit at work also suffer from varicose veins.We are talking about the so-called "computer varicose veins".
- Hormonal imbalance.This disease makes women feel it more clearly during puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant women and postmenopausal women.Hormonal imbalance can lead to blood stasis.
- Change of age.With age, the walls of venous vessels lose their elasticity and flexibility, the function of the valves is impaired, and this can lead to venous stagnation and subsequently varicose veins.
Traditional varicose vein treatment method
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.The medication procedure is supplemented by auxiliary therapy.Traditional methods have proven to be good (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 parchment paper on top (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, green tomato slices are tied to diseased veins overnight, and in winter, tomato paste is tied.Lycopene found in tomatoes helps protect blood vessel walls from overheating, increases elasticity and reduces blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe will help reduce the course of the disease.The product is prepared in a liter jar, into which 1/2 of the leaves are poured, then alcohol (70%) is poured.The medicine is infused for two weeks.The solution should be shaken daily.The resulting infusion is used to lubricate the legs and feet before bedtime.Good pain relief product.
- Fresh potatoes can also relieve pain.Mash a few potatoes and apply the mixture on your feet for about 4 hours.
- An ointment made from dandelion roots.The roots are dried and crushed.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Then lard is added.You will get a creamy mass.Ointment should be stored in the refrigerator.
In addition to external use, there are decoction recipes that improve blood circulation.
Preventing varicose veins in the legs
Compliance with preventive measures will help avoid further development and progression of the disease.Experts recommend the following:
- At the first symptoms of varicose veins in the legs, you need to consult a specialist, who will prescribe blood thinners.
- For mild pain, it is necessary to elevate the leg.When lying or sitting, put a pillow under your feet.Exercising with compression socks is also great.
- A good preventative measure is to take cool showers.Low temperatures are good for blood circulation;it hardens blood vessels.Therefore, you should massage your feet with a cold shower, especially if you have a massage tool.Hot baths, prolonged sunbathing and hair removal with hot wax are prohibited - these are factors that contribute to the development of the disease.
- It is very useful to take baths with essential oils of chamomile, St.John's wort, horsetail or horse chestnut.Even sea water 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.Cross your legs and rotate your top foot clockwise.So 15 rotations per leg.
- The right solution is to perform toe raising exercises.Stand on your heels and place your hands against the wall, curling up onto your toes.Do this a few 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 yolks, wheat, beans, cabbage, dill.The venous system also needs vitamin P. Therefore, it is necessary to consume more foods containing it: peanuts, walnuts, green tea, citrus fruits.
Besides all this, remember the basic rules:
- eat less fatty foods;
- do not cross one leg over the other;
- Avoid wearing tights with tight elastic bands or tight socks, uncomfortable shoes, and very high heels.
Treating varicose veins is not an easy process.If you are at risk, take precautions first.
Knowing the causes of varicose veins in the legs and having discovered the first symptoms, take care of its removal 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.