Varicose veins are a dangerous vascular disease that is characterized by an increase in the diameter of the veins and a violation of the valve apparatus of the veins.This disease occurs in all age categories and does not depend on a person's gender.The prevalence of the pathology is so great that the data of medical research show the presence of signs of varicose veins in at least every third person of the general population of the earth.
Varicose veins are most often located on the lower limbs.This is due to the way the pressure is distributed in the circulatory system and the fact that the legs are exposed to maximum load 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 the symptoms until the disease reaches an advanced stage.In turn, the final stages of varicose veins, as well as their complications, can pose a serious health hazard.
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, specialists quite often prescribe external means - cream, ointment, gel for veins.We will tell you in our article what active ingredients they contain, how they work and help to cope with the disease, and whether there is the best cream or gel for the treatment of varicose veins on 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 venous 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 hosiery and orthopedic products - and this is not all that the attending physician can prescribe to the patient to achieve this goal.But, as medical practice shows, one of the most popular and prescribed means is for local application.
Which pharmaceutical form should I use?Which is better?First of all, it is worth noting that all these products have a different consistency.Ointments are made on the basis of fats of vegetable and animal origin.This is due to their long absorption.Also, when used, it leaves greasy stains on clothes and bedding, which can be a significant drawback.For example, a gel for the treatment of varicose veins on the legs now has a lighter structure, which allows it to be absorbed more quickly with an even distribution on the skin.
If we talk about the transition of the pathological process in an advanced stage and the development of trophic disorders, 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 act on the affected areas of the skin with the greatest efficiency.
The gel is believed to be most effective due to its ability to penetrate deep into the skin.The pharmaceutical industry divides the gels for the treatment of varicose veins into groups depending on the specificity of the active ingredient and the entire spectrum of action on leg veins.
Direct anticoagulants
This drug for the treatment of varicose veins and its complications, such as superficial vein thrombosis, inhibits the activity of thrombin and other blood coagulation factors, has a moderate anti-inflammatory effect and an anti-edematous effect.It has a quick effect after use.It is prescribed for rapid rehabilitation and for prevention at the first manifestations of varicose veins - varicose veins or stars, including pregnant women.
Phlebotonics (venotonics)
The physical properties of this gel are to combat varicose veins by increasing venous blood flow in the lower limbs, improving blood microcirculation and lymphatic drainage.This product has a good anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.It contains plant and synthetic components and may also have a mixed composition.
As a rule, the most popular phlebotonics, regardless of the pharmacological form, are produced with horse chestnut.
They are effective for the treatment of varicose veins in the initial stage and as a means of prevention.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid medicine against varicose veins of the legs contains hormones, so its use should be agreed with a specialist.It improves the rheological properties of blood, reduces viscosity, has a vasoconstrictive effect, and also has powerful anti-inflammatory and antihistamine 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 control.Remember that you should not exceed the prescribed time of use, as this can lead to serious consequences.
Non-steroidal
A non-specific remedy for the treatment of varicose veins on the legs.It helps to get rid of 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 of the lower extremities.They are based on natural ingredients: bee products and herbal mixtures of wormwood, chamomile, etc.
Antibacterial
In case of skin infection and purulent processes on its surface, specialists prescribe antibacterial agents for the treatment of varicose veins of the legs.They are not suitable for long-term use, as 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 to treat 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 absorbent, dermatoprotective and antimicrobial effect.It promotes the cleaning and regeneration of tissues in trophic disorders.They contain sodium-calcium salt of alginic acid and other substances.
How to determine the best drug 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 appropriate regimen for the treatment of varicose veins even during pregnancy.