Modern people spend more and more time in a sitting position: while at the computer or getting to the right place in their car.The more often we deny ourselves walking, the more we expose ourselves to the risk of developing varicose veins.
More than half of the population of our planet faces this problem in one way or another.Diagnosis of varicose veins dates back to ancient times.The greatest doctors devoted many years to studying it, but, unfortunately, they were never able to achieve the desired results.That is why such a disease exists to this day, bothering people most often of working age.What causes this disease?
Varicose veins - causes of appearance
First of all, a conversation about varicose veins should begin with a little information about the functioning of our circulatory system.As you know, blood circulates throughout our body and the initiator of this process is our heart: it contracts rhythmically, directing blood through arteries, vessels, and so on.The essence of the process itself is that, having reached the legs, the blood must turn around and make the return journey.And this is where the problem arises that leads to the development of varicose veins.
In addition to the heart, the muscles of the legs also contribute to the movement of blood through the vessels.If they are in good shape (constantly contracting and relaxing), then there are no problems with the movement of blood through the vessels.If the veins dilate, a gap forms between the valves and the outflow of blood slows down.The vein stretches, and the person suffers from the appearance of varicose veins.
It is worth noting that varicose veins occur not only in the lower extremities: there are cases of dilation of the veins of the abdominal organs, pelvic veins, testicular and spermatic cord veins.The most common are varicose veins in the legs.
The reasons for the appearance of varicose veins on the legs include the following factors:
- Extra pounds.One of the most common causes of varicose veins is excess weight, as it creates increased pressure on the veins of the lower extremities.
- Activities that involve standing for excessive periods of time.
- Inactivity or physical inactivity.In contrast to the previous factor, the cause of the development of varicose veins can be a “sedentary” lifestyle.
- Pregnancy.Unfortunately, it also increases the risk of varicose veins.The lack of necessary rest when carrying a child in the final stages creates a certain load on the body and, in particular, on the woman’s legs.
- Heredity.Oddly enough, but such a disease can be passed on to you from your parents, grandparents.Moreover, varicose veins can be localized in completely different places.
It would be a grave mistake to believe that these factors contribute to the formation and development of varicose veins.These are just the primary reasons.Hormonal imbalances, frequent stress, even bad habits can trigger this disease.Many will ask: how, for example, can alcohol affect the appearance of varicose veins?The answer is simple.Alcohol-containing drinks contribute to dehydration of our body, and, therefore, the blood vessels do not receive the required amount of nutrients.
Even such seemingly small things as tight elastic stockings or socks impede the movement of blood, thereby increasing the risk of varicose veins.
Symptoms of varicose veins
The disease can progress over many years.In the initial stages, varicose veins can be completely asymptomatic.Only occasionally can a person feel heaviness, nagging pain in the legs and cramps in the calf muscles after a long walk.In the later stages, the symptoms become more and more noticeable, and varicose veins can be identified without a doubt.
First of all, the signals about the occurrence of such a problem are nagging pain in the legs, swelling and cramps.It is important that, in the case of varicose veins, all these symptoms are “muffled” while walking or after sleep.
We most often attribute such discomfort to fatigue after a hard day at work or after active recreation.This is why people identify varicose veins visually.Dark blue swollen veins become visible on the legs, and small red-blue spider veins appear.
Many women in the fight against varicose veins cope only with the aesthetic component of the problem, wearing trousers or other clothing that hides their legs.You need to fight thoroughly - do not put off the treatment of varicose veins, because the consequences can become more significant.
Methods and means of treating varicose veins
How to find the right treatment for varicose veins?Sometimes a person only needs a certain amount of time to rest in order to avoid the first signs of vein deformation.Unfortunately, people turn to specialists when varicose veins are already advanced and immediate surgical intervention is required.Below are the various treatment methods for varicose veins.
Treatment of varicose veins with laser
Modern medicine is developing more and more actively, and doctors have the opportunity to carry out drug-free treatment of the disease.One of these methods is laser treatment of varicose veins or, in other words, coagulation.The essence of this process is to close the lumen of dilated veins.Areas damaged by varicose veins are “soldered” using a high-energy laser.The operation does not take much time (about 40 minutes), and on this day the patient can go home or return to work.For this reason, this treatment method is called “office surgery.”The most important thing is the cosmetic effect.After this treatment, no scars remain on the body.
In order for the laser to affect the vein, a special fiber is inserted through the injection.Next, the vein spasms, after which the lumen closes.The vein does not participate in the blood flow, and is subsequently replaced by connective tissue.This treatment allows you to achieve the effect of removing varicose veins.
Despite the effectiveness of this method, unforeseen circumstances are also possible.If treatment for varicose veins is started, veins that have reached large sizes may become unstuck and later return to their place, returning their former discomfort.
Traditional treatment for varicose veins
Recently, people have become increasingly skeptical of medical medicine and various surgical interventions.They choose an alternative option - treatment of varicose veins with folk remedies.Such treatment methods have been tested for decades.
Some plant varieties provide effective home treatment and prevention of varicose veins.Undoubtedly, the desired result will be possible only if they are used correctly.One of these medicinal plants is nettle.
The disadvantage of treating varicose veins with home remedies is expressed in its duration.A medicinal nettle decoction should be taken morning and evening for six months.During home treatment, you should also follow a certain diet: if possible, exclude fatty, fried, salty and sweet foods from your diet.Only in the aggregate the rules implemented will be able to produce the desired effect.
Another example of a medicinal plant is acacia.White acacia flowers are used in the form of compresses, tinctures and lotions.This remedy promotes the resorption of swollen veins due to varicose veins, giving the legs a feeling of lightness.
Among the traditional methods of treating varicose veins, there are those that can cope with swelling and pain in the legs.Apple cider vinegar is proof of this.
It has special healing properties that are so effective in the fight against varicose veins.This product contains many minerals and trace elements that have a beneficial effect on the human body.It also contains vitamins A, B and C.
Treatment of varicose veins with apple cider vinegar helps strengthen the walls of blood vessels.In addition, it has an anti-inflammatory effect, eliminating swelling and toning the skin.There are several ways to use this product at home:
- Rubbing apple cider vinegar after a bath or shower.
- Compresses.In order to make a compress, you need to apply gauze pre-soaked in apple cider vinegar to the damaged area and insulate the area.
- Another way to treat varicose veins is dousing.Apple cider vinegar is diluted in water (150 g of vinegar per 2 liters of warm water) and areas with varicose veins are doused with this solution.
Note!Clay (blue, green or white) is also useful for treating varicose veins.Damaged areas should be coated with clay soaked in cold water.
Other treatments for varicose veins
In addition to vein removal surgery, treatment of varicose veins at home and laser therapy, there are a number of medications: special ointments, blood thinners, anti-inflammatory and painkillers.The use of a complex of such drugs is recommended only after prescription by the attending physician.
Massage is another method of treatment and prevention that can alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins, as it promotes better blood circulation in the body.It is better to entrust massage for varicose veins to a qualified specialist, otherwise the effect may be the opposite, aggravating the situation.
Let's dispel the myth!Many people consider hirudotherapy (treatment with leeches) an effective method for varicose veins.This is a misconception.Such treatment only promotes blood thinning, which will not in any way affect the main problem of varicose veins - an increase in the venous lumen.Moreover, the results of such therapy may be negative for the patient.Pigmentation and prolonged hemorrhage are just a small part.Leech saliva contains a large number of allergens that can cause inflammatory reactions in humans.
Prevention of varicose veins
Why treat varicose veins if you can prevent their occurrence in advance!Following simple rules will help not only prevent yourself from the appearance and long-term treatment of varicose veins, but also improve your health.
We should not forget that the meaning of our entire life is movement.From childhood we are taught to do morning exercises and take a contrast shower.Not in vain!This is the secret of the health of our entire body.
Love sports.You don't have to torture yourself with grueling workouts.You can choose the sport that you like.The main thing is to be constantly on the move and not let your body gain unnecessary pounds, which can cause the appearance of varicose veins.In this case, special attention should be paid to nutrition: if possible, exclude fatty foods or try to minimize their amount.Don't forget: we are what we eat.
We abandon everyone’s favorite pose – “leg to leg.”In this position, blood circulation is disrupted, which also negatively affects the lower limbs and contributes to the development of varicose veins.It is better to place a small bench or stand under your feet.
Make sure that your shoes are comfortable, have low heels, and that the elastic bands on your socks and stockings do not squeeze your feet.
Reconsider your lifestyle and never forget that our health is in our hands!