Varicose veins are a dangerous vascular disease, which is characterized by an increase in the diameter of the veins and a disorder of the valvular apparatus of the veins.This disease occurs in all age categories and does not depend on the gender of the person.The prevalence of the pathology is so great that medical research data indicate the presence of signs of varicose veins in at least every third person out of the total population of the country.
Varicose veins are most often localized on the lower extremities.This is due to the way the pressure is distributed in the circulatory system and the fact that the legs are exposed to maximum stress every day.The disease manifests itself as a feeling of tiredness in the legs, night cramps, swelling, pain and itching of the skin, often localized along the course of varicose veins.
The danger of varicose veins is that most people do not pay due attention to its symptoms until the disease reaches an advanced stage.In turn, the final stage of varicose veins, as well as their complications, can pose a serious threat to health.
A large number of different therapeutic methods are used in the fight against varicose veins.In order to prevent the development of the disease and its progression, experts often prescribe external means - cream, ointment, gel for veins.In our article, we will tell you what active ingredients they contain, how they work and help in dealing with the disease, and whether there is the best cream or gel for the treatment of varicose veins in 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, removing 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 this is not all that a doctor can prescribe to a patient to achieve this goal.But, as medical practice shows, one of the most popular and prescribed drugs is for local use.
Which pharmacological form should I use?which one is better?First of all, it is worth noting that all these products have different consistencies.Fats are produced on the basis of fats of vegetable and animal origin.This is due to their long absorption.In addition, during use, greasy stains remain on clothes and bedding, which can be a significant drawback.For example, the gel for the treatment of varicose veins of the legs already has a lighter structure, which allows it to be absorbed more quickly when it is evenly distributed over the skin.
If we are talking about the transition of the 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 to act with the greatest efficiency on the affected areas of the skin.
The gel is considered to be the 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 specifics of the active ingredient and the overall breadth of the spectrum of action on leg veins.
Direct anticoagulants
This drug for the treatment of varicose veins and its complications, such as, for example, superficial vein thrombosis, inhibits the activity of thrombin and other blood clotting factors, has a moderate anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effect.It works quickly after use.It is prescribed for rapid rehabilitation and for the purpose of prevention in the first manifestations of varicose veins - varicose veins or asterisks, including pregnant women.
Phlebotonics (venotonics)
The physical properties of this gel are suppression of varicose veins by increasing venous blood flow in the lower extremities, improving blood microcirculation and lymphatic drainage.This product has a good anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.It contains herbal and synthetic components, and can also have a mixed composition.
As a rule, the most popular phlebotonics, regardless of the pharmacological form, are produced from horse chestnut.
They are effective in the treatment of varicose veins in the initial stages, and as a preventive measure.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid medication against varicose veins on the legs contains hormones, so its use must be agreed with a specialist.It improves the rheological properties of blood, reduces viscosity, has a vasoconstrictor effect, and has powerful anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties.Effective in varicose eczema and ulcers;
The use of steroids for external use should be carried out exclusively on the recommendation of a doctor and under his strict supervision.Remember that you must not exceed the prescribed time of use, as this can lead to serious consequences.
Non-steroidal
A non-specific remedy for varicose veins on the legs.It helps relieve pain and prevents the development of the inflammatory process.
Regenerating
This gel is prescribed if there is a violation of the integrity of the skin on the lower extremities.They are based on natural ingredients: beekeeping products and herbal mixtures of wormwood, chamomile, etc.
Antibacterial
In case of skin infection and purulent processes on its surface, experts prescribe antibacterial agents for the treatment of varicose veins on the legs.They are not suitable for long-term use, because the natural protective function of bacterial immunity can be weakened.
Antiseptic
Antiseptic compounds, which are included in the medicine for varicose veins on the legs, dry the affected areas of the skin and soothe it.Chamomile, leech extract, etc. have such properties.Menthol can be used.A cooling gel for varicose veins is created on its basis.
Angioprotectors
Ointment and gel with angioprotective properties are used for the treatment of varicose veins.The mechanism of their action is to improve blood circulation, relieve spasms and reduce the permeability of the vascular wall.
Sorptive
These products have an adsorbing, dermatoprotective and antimicrobial effect.Promotes tissue cleaning and regeneration in case of trophic disorders.They contain sodium-calcium salts of alginic acid and other substances.
How to determine the best treatment for varicose veins in the legs?Only a doctor can choose the most effective in each individual situation, taking into account the individual characteristics of each patient.He will choose an adequate treatment regimen for varicose veins even during pregnancy.