According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem is more common 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 noticeable on the legs, the symptoms of which represent 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 sharply and become twisted.This causes seals to form – “spider veins”.What are varicose veins on the legs, why do they arise?
The real problem is related to the disruption 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 backward movement of blood.As the superficial veins expand, the closure of the valves becomes loose.This directs the blood in the opposite direction and supplies it to the superficial veins.
Then everything develops one after the other.As there is more blood in the connecting veins, the strain increases and they begin to expand.Blood that should completely reach the deep veins seeps back into the superficial ones, thereby expanding them even further.This causes clearly prominent veins to form on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is a slowdown in blood movement, and this is likely a cause of thrombosis, preventing 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 in the veins;
- Swelling;
- pigmentation and densification;
- violet or purple vein walls;
- trophic ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the initial stage of varicose veins, the following are characteristic of the progressive form.
Varicose veins: causes of occurrence
Varicose veins of the lower extremities arise for various reasons:
- obesity;
- nervous disorders;
- Smoke;
- drink alcohol;
- excessive browning;
- frequent sauna visits;
- abuse of hot baths;
- wear tight socks and stockings.
Below we 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 workOften the pathology in question is characteristic of people who work while standing.This position puts unnecessary pressure on your legs.People who work while sitting also suffer from varicose veins.We are talking about the so-called “computer varicose veins”.
- Hormonal imbalance.The disease becomes noticeable in the fairer sex during puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant women and women going through menopause.Hormonal imbalances can lead to blood stagnation.
- Age 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 expansion of the veins.
Traditional methods of treating varicose veins
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.Drug procedures are supplemented by auxiliary therapy.Traditional methods have proven themselves well (especially in the initial phase).
- One of the most effective folk remedies is crushed garlic (with white peel) and butter (1:2 ratio).Problem areas are rubbed with the mixture, and the legs are wrapped on top in parchment paper (you can use a bandage or a scarf).In the morning, the mixture is washed off and something warm is placed on the feet.
- In summer, slices of green tomatoes are tied to 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 lowers blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe helps alleviate the course of the disease.The product is prepared in a liter jar, half of which is filled with leaves, and then alcohol (70%) is poured into it.The medicine is infused for two weeks.It is recommended to shake the solution daily.The resulting infusion is used to lubricate the legs and feet before bedtime.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.
- An ointment is made from dandelion root.The root is dried and chopped.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Then pork fat is added.A creamy mass should emerge.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 prevent 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.
- If the pain is mild, it is necessary to elevate your feet.Place a pillow under your feet while lying or sitting.It is also recommended to do the exercise in compression stockings.
- A good preventive measure is a cool shower.Low temperatures are good for blood circulation;it hardens the blood vessels.Therefore, it is highly recommended to massage your feet with a cold shower, especially if you have massage attachments.Hot baths, prolonged tanning and depilation with hot wax are prohibited - these are factors that contribute to the development of the disease.
- Baths with infusions of marigold, St. John's wort, horsetail or horse chestnut are useful.Even sea salt or regular salt will do.The duration of the procedure is half an hour.
- If you do a sedentary job, don't forget to do a simple exercise.Cross your legs and rotate your top foot clockwise.So 15 rotations of each foot.
- The correct solution would be exercises with raised toes.Stand on your heels and, with your hand against the wall, gently roll onto your toes.Do this a few dozen times.Basically, any physical activity, including a regular walk, promotes blood circulation.
- Increase the proportion of vitamin E-rich foods 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 that contain it: peanuts, walnuts, green tea, citrus fruits.
Also note the basic rules:
- eat less fatty foods;
- do not cross one leg over the other;
- Avoid tights 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.
If you know the causes of varicose veins in the legs and have 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.