According to statistics, 30% of women and 10% of men suffer from varicose veins.This problem occurs more often among people aged 30-40 years.Place of manifestation of the disease: arm, shoulder, rectal wall, esophagus, bladder.As a rule, varicose veins most often make themselves felt on the legs, a symptom that is a serious aesthetic problem.
What are varicose veins on the legs?
Varicose veins affect the subcutaneous and deep veins.The latter loses its original elasticity and shape, expands, protrudes strongly and becomes torture.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 blood flow disorders.The leg venous system consists of superficial, connecting and deep veins, where there are special valves consisting of two valves that close and prevent the reverse movement of blood.When superficial veins develop, the valve closure becomes loose.For this reason, blood is passed in the opposite direction, and the supply is formed in the superficial veins.
Then everything develops sequentially.Since there is more blood in the connecting veins, therefore, the load on them has increased, and they also begin to expand.Blood, which should enter the deep veins, seeps back into the shallow ones, thereby expanding them even more.As a result, noticeable veins appear on the legs.
The consequence of the formation of reverse blood flow is the slowness of blood movement, and this is a possible cause of thrombosis, which prevents the free flow of blood in the veins.
Varicose veins on the legs: symptoms and stages
Varicose veins in the legs are indicated by the following symptoms:
- pain in the problem area;
- leg cramps;
- burning in the veins;
- swelling;
- pigmentation and compaction;
- purple or purple vein walls;
- trophic ulcers.
The first four symptoms are characteristic of the early stage of varicose veins, and the following are characteristic of the progressive form.
Varicose veins: causes of occurrence
Varicose veins of the lower legs occur under the influence of several reasons:
- overweight;
- nervous disorders;
- smoking;
- drink alcohol;
- excessive tanning;
- frequent visits to the sauna;
- abuse of hot baths;
- Wear 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 parents have varicose veins, it is very likely that their children will also develop this disease (probability - up to 75%).
- The nuances of work.Often the pathology in question is characteristic of people involved in standing work.This position puts unnecessary stress on your legs.People who work while sitting also suffer from varicose veins.We are talking about the so-called "computer varicose veins".
- Hormonal imbalance.This disease makes itself felt in the fairer sex during puberty.This disease is often diagnosed in pregnant women and women with menopause.Hormonal imbalances can cause blood stagnation.
- Age transformation.With age, the walls of venous vessels lose their elasticity and plasticity, valve function is impaired, and this can cause venous stagnation and subsequent dilation of veins.
Traditional methods of treating varicose veins
An effective treatment strategy requires an integrated approach.Drug procedures are complemented by additional therapy.Traditional methods have proven themselves well (especially in the early stages).
- One of the most effective folk remedies is crushed garlic (with white skin) and butter (ratio - 1: 2).The problem area is rubbed with the mixture, and the legs are wrapped with paper towels on top (you can use bandages or scarves).In the morning, the mixture is washed off and something warm is placed on your feet.
- In summer, pieces of green tomatoes are tied to diseased veins overnight, and in winter, tomato patches are tied.Lycopene, which is contained in tomatoes, protects the walls of blood vessels from overheating, increases their elasticity, and reduces blood pressure.
- Kalanchoe will help alleviate this disease.This product is prepared in a liter jar, into which 1/2 is filled with leaves, and then alcohol (70%) is poured.This medicine is infused for two weeks.It is advisable to shake the solution every day.The resulting infusion is used to lubricate the legs and feet before going to bed.This product relieves pain well.
- Fresh potatoes can also relieve pain.Grate some potatoes and apply the paste to your feet for about 4 hours.
- Ointment made from dandelion root.The roots are dried and crushed.The resulting powder is poured with water and boiled until thick.Then lard is added.You should get a creamy mass.Ointment should be stored in the refrigerator.
In addition to external use, there are recipes to record that improve blood circulation.
Prevention of varicose veins in the legs
Compliance with preventive measures will help prevent the development and further development of this disease.Experts recommend the following:
- At the first symptom of varicose veins on the legs, you should consult a specialist who will recommend blood thinners.
- For mild pain, it is necessary to raise your leg.When lying down or sitting, place a pillow under your legs.It is also good to do exercises in compression stockings.
- A good preventive measure is a cold shower.Low temperature is good for blood circulation;It hardens the blood vessels.Therefore, it is highly recommended to massage your feet with a cold shower, especially if you have a massage attachment.Hot baths, prolonged tanning, and spreading with hot candles are prohibited - these are factors that contribute to the development of this disease.
- Bath with Calendula infusion, St. wort.John, horse or horse chestnut is useful.Even sea or regular salt will do.The duration of the procedure is half an hour.
- If you have an inactive job, don't forget to do simple exercises.Crossing your legs, rotate your upper leg clockwise.So 15 rotations per leg.
- The correct solution is to do the exercise by raising your toes.Stand on your heels and, holding your hands to the wall, make smooth rolls to your toes.Do this several times.Basically, any physical activity, even normal walking, 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 consume more foods containing: nuts, walnuts, green tea, citrus fruits.
Also, remember the basic rules:
- Eat low-fat foods;
- Do not cross one leg over the other;
- Avoid tightness with tight elastic bands or tight socks, uncomfortable shoes and heels that are too high.
Treatment of varicose veins is not an easy process.If you are at risk, then do prevention first.
Know the cause of varicose veins in the legs and have found the first symptoms, take care of their elimination and consult a doctor.
A healthy diet, following medical recommendations, and folk recipes will help relieve pain, stop the progression of the disease, and eliminate its manifestations.