Varicose veins are a dangerous vascular disease characterized by an increase in the diameter of the veins and disruption of the venous valve system.This disease occurs in all age groups and is independent of the person's gender.The prevalence of the pathology is so great that medical research data indicate that at least every third person of the entire population of the Earth has signs of varicose veins.
Most often, varicose veins are located in the lower extremities.This is due to the pressure distribution in the circulatory system and the fact that the legs are exposed to maximum stress every day.The disease is manifested by a feeling of fatigue in the legs, night cramps, swelling, pain and itching of the skin, often localized in the course of varicose veins.
The danger of varicose veins is that most people do not pay attention to the symptoms until they are in an advanced stage.The final stage of varicose veins and their complications can pose a serious health risk.
A variety of different therapy methods are used to combat varicose veins.To prevent the development of the disease and its progression, specialists often prescribe external means – cream, ointment, gel for veins.In our article we will tell you which active ingredients they contain, how they work and help to cope with the disease and whether there is the best cream or gel for treating varicose veins on the legs.
Ointments and gels for varicose veins of the lower extremities
Suppressing pain, stopping the inflammatory process, normalizing blood circulation, restoring the elasticity of the vein walls, eliminating swelling and itching of the skin - this is the goal of conservative treatment of varicose veins.Ointments and tablets, physiotherapy and therapeutic exercises, compression stockings and orthopedic products - and that's not all that the attending physician can prescribe to the patient to achieve this goal.But as medical practice shows, topical use is one of the most popular and frequently prescribed remedies.
Which pharmacological form should I use?What is better?First of all, it should be noted that all of these products have different consistencies.Ointments are made based on fats of plant and animal origin.This is due to their long absorption.In addition, its use leaves greasy stains on clothing and bed linen, which can be a significant disadvantage.For example, a gel for the treatment of varicose veins on the legs already has a lighter structure, which means that it is absorbed more quickly when distributed evenly on the skin.
When it comes to the transition of a pathological process to an advanced stage and the development of trophic disorders up to trophic ulcers, the use of ointments is more effective than the use of various creams.The lipophilic base of the ointment allows it to penetrate as deeply as possible and have a highly effective effect on the affected skin areas.
The gel is believed to be most effective due to its ability to penetrate deep into the skin.The pharmaceutical industry divides gels for the treatment of varicose veins into groups depending on the specificity of the active ingredient and the entire range of the spectrum of action on the leg veins.
Direct anticoagulants
This drug for the treatment of varicose veins and their complications, such as thrombosis of superficial veins, inhibits the activity of thrombin and other blood coagulation factors, has a moderate anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effect.The effect occurs quickly after application.Prescribed for rapid rehabilitation and prevention at the first manifestations of varicose veins – varicose veins or asterisks, including in pregnant women.
Phlebotonics (venotonics)
The physical properties of this gel are to combat varicose veins by increasing venous blood flow in the lower extremities and improving blood microcirculation and lymphatic drainage.This product has good anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.Contains herbal and synthetic components and may also have a mixed composition.
As a rule, the most popular phlebotonics, regardless of the pharmacological form, are made from horse chestnut.
They are effective in the treatment of varicose veins in the initial stages and as a means of prevention.
Corticosteroids
The corticosteroid drug for varicose veins on the legs contains hormones, so its use must be coordinated with a specialist.It improves the rheological properties of the blood, reduces viscosity, has a vasoconstrictor effect and also has strong anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.Effective for varicose eczema and ulcers;
The use of steroids for external use should only be done on the recommendation of a doctor and under his or her strict supervision.Remember not to exceed the prescribed duration of use as this may have serious consequences.
Nonsteroidal
Non-specific remedy for varicose veins on the legs.It helps to relieve pain and prevent the development of the inflammatory process.
Regenerating
This gel is prescribed when the integrity of the skin on the lower extremities is violated.They are based on natural ingredients: beekeeping products and herbal mixtures of wormwood, chamomile, etc.
Antibacterial
In case of infection of the skin and purulent processes on its surface, specialists prescribe antibacterial agents to treat varicose veins on the legs.They are not suitable for long-term use as the natural protective function of bacterial immunity can be weakened.
Antiseptic
Antiseptic compounds contained in the drug for varicose veins on the legs dry the affected areas of the skin and soothe them.Chamomile, leech extract, etc. have such properties.Menthol can be used.On this basis, a cooling gel against varicose veins is created.
Angioprotectors
To treat varicose veins, ointments and gels with angioprotective properties are used.Their mechanism of action is to improve blood circulation, relieve spasms and reduce the permeability of the vascular wall.
Sorptive
These products have an adsorbent, dermatoprotective and antimicrobial effect.Promotes cleansing and regeneration of tissue in the event of trophic disorders.They contain sodium calcium salt of alginic acid and other substances.
How to find the best medicine for varicose veins on the legs?Only a doctor can choose the most effective ones in each individual situation, taking into account the individual characteristics of each patient.He will also select a suitable scheme for treating varicose veins during pregnancy.