According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem occurs more often in people aged 30-40 years.Places of manifestation of the disease: arms, shoulders, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.As a rule, varicose veins are most often felt 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 strongly and become tortuous.As a result, seals are formed - "spider veins".What are varicose veins on the legs, why do they occur?
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 reverse movement of blood.When the superficial veins dilate, the valve closure becomes loose.For this reason, blood passes in the opposite direction, and stores are formed in the superficial veins.
Then everything develops sequentially.Because there is more blood in the connecting veins, the load on them has increased, and they also begin to dilate.Blood, which should completely go to the deep veins, enters the superficial veins and thus expands them even more.As a result, noticeable bulging veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is the slowing down of blood movement, and this is a probable 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 density;
- purple or purple vein walls;
- trophic ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the initial stage of varicose veins, and those that follow are characteristic of the progressive form.
Varicose veins: the causes of their occurrence
Varicose veins of the lower extremities occur under the influence of several reasons:
- overweight;
- nervous disorders;
- smoking;
- drinking alcohol;
- excessive tanning;
- frequent visits to the sauna;
- abuse of hot baths;
- wearing tight socks, stockings.
Below we will take a closer look at other causes of varicose veins on the legs identified by doctors.
- Genetic predisposition.If the parents had varicose veins, then, most likely, their children will also develop this disease (probability - up to 75%).
- Shades of work.Often the pathology in question is characteristic of people who engage in standing work.This position puts unnecessary pressure on your legs.People who work while sitting also suffer from varicose veins.It is about the so-called "computer varicose veins".
- Hormonal imbalance.The disease is felt in the fairer sex during puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant and menopausal women.Hormonal imbalance can lead to blood stagnation.
- Age transformations.Over the years, the walls of venous vessels lose elasticity and plasticity, the functionality of the valves is impaired, and this 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 complemented by adjuvant therapy.Traditional methods have proven themselves well (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 from above (you can use a bandage or a scarf).In the morning, the mixture is washed off and something warm is put on the feet.
- In the summer, green tomato slices are tied to the diseased veins overnight, and in the winter, tomato paste.Lycopene, found in tomatoes, protects the walls of blood vessels from overheating, increases their elasticity and lowers blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe will help ease the course of the disease.The agent is prepared in a liter jar, which is 1/2 filled with leaves, and then alcohol (70%) is poured.The medicine is infused for two weeks.It is recommended to shake the solution daily.The obtained 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 a few potatoes and apply the paste on your feet for about 4 hours.
- Ointment is made from dandelion roots.The root is dried and crushed.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Then lard is added.You should get a creamy mass.The fat 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 avoid the development and further progression of the disease.Experts recommend the following:
- At the first symptoms of varicose veins on the legs, it is necessary to consult a specialist who will recommend blood thinners.
- For mild pain, it is necessary to raise the feet.While lying or sitting, place a pillow under your feet.It is also good to do the exercise in compression stockings.
- A good preventive measure is a cold shower.Low temperature is good for blood circulation;hardens blood vessels.Therefore, it is advisable to massage your feet with a cold shower, especially if you have massage accessories.Hot baths, prolonged sunbathing and depilation with hot wax are prohibited - these are factors that contribute to the development of the disease.
- Baths with infusions 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 have a sedentary job, then don't forget to do a simple exercise.Cross your legs, rotate the top of your foot clockwise.So 15 rotations of each leg.
- The right solution would be to perform exercises with the lifting of the toes.Stand on your heels and, holding your hand against the wall, make smooth rolls on your toes.Do this a few dozen times.In principle, any physical activity, even a regular walk, 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 eat more foods that contain it: 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 elastic bands or tight socks, uncomfortable shoes and too high heels.
Treatment of varicose veins is not an easy process.If you are at risk, do prevention in advance.
Knowing the causes of varicose veins on the legs and discovering the first symptoms, take care of its elimination and consult a doctor.
A healthy diet, adherence to medical recommendations and folk recipes will help relieve pain, stop the development of the disease and get rid of its manifestations.