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: hands, shoulders, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.As a rule, varicose veins are most often felt on the legs, the symptoms of which are 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 twist.As a result, seals are formed - "spider veins".What are varicose veins on the legs, why do they develop?
The real problem is related to the violation 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 backflow of blood.When the superficial veins are dilated, the valve closure becomes lax.For this reason, the blood passes in the opposite direction and a supply is formed in the superficial veins.
After that, everything develops sequentially.Since there is more blood in the connecting veins, therefore the load on them has increased and they also begin to dilate.The blood that should pass entirely into the deep veins seeps back into the superficial veins, thereby dilating them even more.As a result, noticeable bulging veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is a 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 of the legs: symptoms and stages
Varicose veins in the legs are manifested by the following symptoms:
- pain in problem areas;
- leg cramps;
- burning in the veins;
- swelling;
- pigmentation and thickening;
- purple or purple vein walls;
- trophic ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the initial stage of varicose veins, and the following - for the progressive form.
Varicose veins: causes of occurrence
Varicose veins of the lower extremities occur under the influence of a number of reasons:
- overweight;
- nervous disorders;
- smoking;
- drinking alcohol;
- excessive tan;
- frequent sauna visits;
- abuse of hot baths;
- wearing tight socks, stockings.
Below we will take a closer look at other causes of varicose veins in 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%).
- Nuances at work.Often the pathology in question is characteristic of people engaged in standing work.This position puts unnecessary pressure on your legs.People who work sitting also suffer from varicose veins.We are talking about the so-called "computer varicose veins".
- Hormonal imbalance.The disease is felt in the fair sex during puberty.The disease is often diagnosed in pregnant and menopausal women.Hormonal imbalance can lead to blood stagnation.
- Age transformations.With age, the walls of venous vessels lose their elasticity and plasticity, the functionality of the valves is impaired, which can lead to venous stasis and subsequent expansion of the veins.
Traditional methods of treating varicose veins
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.Medicinal 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 oil (ratio - 1:2).The problem areas are rubbed with the mixture, and the legs are wrapped with baking paper on top (maybe with a bandage or a scarf).In the morning, the mixture is washed off and the feet are smeared with something warm.
- In summer, slices of green tomatoes are tied to the diseased veins overnight, and in winter, tomato paste is tied.The lycopene contained in tomatoes protects the walls of blood vessels from overheating, increases their elasticity and lowers blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe will help alleviate the course of the disease.The product is prepared in a liter jar, in which 1/2 is 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 tincture is smeared on the legs and feet before going to bed.The product relieves pain well.
- Fresh potatoes can also relieve pain.Grate some potatoes and apply the paste on your feet for about 4 hours.
- An ointment is made from dandelion root.The root is dried and crushed.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Then pork fat is added.You should get a creamy mass.The ointment should be stored in the refrigerator.
In addition to external use, there are recipes for potions that improve blood circulation.
Prevention of varicose veins on the legs
Compliance with preventive measures will help to avoid the development and further progression of the disease.Experts recommend the following:
- At the first symptoms of varicose veins on the legs, you should consult a specialist who will recommend blood thinners.
- In case of slight pain, it is necessary to raise your legs.While lying or sitting, place a pillow under your feet.It is also good to do the exercise in compression socks.
- A good preventive measure is a cool shower.Low temperature is good for blood circulation;hardens blood vessels.Therefore, it is highly recommended to massage your feet with a cold shower, especially if you have massage attachments.Hot baths, prolonged tanning, depilation with hot wax are prohibited - these are factors that contribute to the development of the disease.
- Baths with tinctures of calendula, St. John's wort, horsetail or horse chestnut are useful.Even sea or regular salt will work.The duration of the procedure is half an hour.
- If you have a sedentary job, then do not forget to do one simple exercise.Crossing your legs, rotate the top of your foot clockwise.So, 15 rotations on each leg.
- The correct solution would be to perform exercises with the lifting of the toes.Stand on your heels and, holding your hand against the wall, do smooth flips on your toes.Do this a few dozen times.Basically, 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 yolk, wheat, beans, cabbage, fennel.The venous system also needs vitamin P. Therefore, it is necessary to consume more foods that contain it: peanuts, walnuts, green tea, citrus fruits.
Apart from 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 heels that are too high.
Varicose veins treatment is not an easy process.If you are at risk, then do prevention in advance.
Knowing the causes of varicose veins on the legs and after discovering the first symptoms, take care of their removal and consult a doctor.
Healthy eating, compliance with medical recommendations and folk recipes will help relieve pain, stop the development of the disease and eliminate its manifestations.