Many people know that varicose veins are a chronic disease.
The vein walls stretch and lose their elasticity.Veins are visible on the surface of the legs, they look tortuous and lumpy, spoiling the appearance.But this is not just an aesthetic problem.With varicose veins, people suffer from swelling, pain, cramps and a constant feeling of heaviness in the legs.
Why does fluid remain in the tissue?The cause of edema in varicose veins lies in increased pressure in the vessels in which the blood stagnates.To relieve this pressure, water escapes into the tissue surrounding the vessel and the leg enlarges.And now in the evening, after a day at work, you find it difficult to put on your favorite shoes.And after a while, swelling becomes your constant companion, which does not subside even in the morning.
What to do if your legs swell with varicose veins?
The first and most obvious answer to this question is to make an appointment with a phlebologist.These specialists treat venous diseases.After a comprehensive diagnosis (including ultrasound), the phlebologist creates a comprehensive therapy program that is the most effective treatment for leg swelling due to varicose veins.
But treatment takes time, and we want to relieve the condition, as they say, “immediately.”Relieve the feeling of heaviness in the legs, look good at an event, eliminate discomfort... Therefore, we give some recommendations on how to relieve swelling of the legs due to varicose veins:
- Use ointments and creams that improve vascular permeability and have an antiedematous effect.These can be, for example, ointments based on heparin or natural venotonics - horse chestnut, ginkgo biloba, grape leaves.These ointments work particularly well in the early stages of varicose veins and can also be used to prevent edema.
- Increase permissible physical activity for varicose veins.For example, you can walk part of the way home from work (walking is a good exercise that works your lower leg muscles).Or go to the swimming pool - swimming is very useful for varicose veins.The body is in a comfortable horizontal position in the water and the stress on the legs is combined with the massage effect of the water.
- Do a few exercises to relieve swelling in your legs.For example, while sitting or standing, you can alternately place your feet on your toes and then on your heels.Walking on tiptoes relieves feelings of heaviness in the legs and “awakens” the muscles.You can make rotational movements with your feet or grab various small objects from the floor - pencils or ping pong balls - with your bare feet.And when you are at home, do a few exercises with your legs raised - “birch”, “bicycle” or “scissors”.
- Alternating showers, alternating baths or massages with ice cubes strengthen the vessel walls well.
How to treat swelling of the legs with varicose veins with folk remedies
Remember: not a single folk remedy, no matter how much it promises, can cure varicose veins.However, a few recipes will help you feel better.
First of all, this involves the use of plants that have a diuretic effect.For example, you can make an infusion from young birch leaves.Or take the whole parsley (along with the root), grind it in a meat grinder and pour boiling water over it.The soaped infusion can be drunk.
Offers recipes for traditional medicine and foot baths.For example, they can be prepared with the addition of sea salt and peppermint.Schisandra, chamomile and nettle strengthen the blood vessels of the legs, which can also be used to prepare baths.
And a little about compression
As already mentioned, the main cause of edema in varicose veins is stagnation of blood in the veins, which leads to increased pressure in them.The best recommendation for anyone diagnosed with varicose veins is to wear compression socks tailored to the size recommended by your doctor.The special thread mesh in stockings and tights ensures the right pressure, which supports blood flow in the veins and prevents swelling.
By regularly implementing these recommendations, your swelling condition will significantly improve.Varicose veins go away if you undergo comprehensive treatment, and daily exercise, wearing compression stockings and the right regimen will help maintain healthy and beautiful legs for many years.