One of the problems of many women and about 15% of men is the varicose veins in the legs. In this disease, the vessels in the legs (veins), which return blood rich in carbon dioxide and residues of metabolism, deform, expand, lose tone and appear under the skin.
In addition to aesthetic defects, changes in the structure of the veins and impaired blood circulation lead to unpleasant sensations in the legs and even pain, edema and a feeling of heaviness. Although there are several medical instruments and procedures that assist in treatment, it is important from the beginning, as soon as the first signs of varicose veins appear, to strive for prevention - this will help to avoid pain, swelling, tired legs, external aesthetic defects.
What's the matter?
Varicose veins, usually called varicose veins, are severe changes in the venous wall, their weakness, excessive stretching, due to which swollen veins twisted in dark blue or purple appear under the skin. In the initial stage, small "stars" with enlarged capillaries, small crowns and then larger ones may appear.
The veins have a special structure: in addition to the elastic wall, they also have small valves (bags) that prevent blood flow in the opposite direction. Varicose veins are formed when the valves on the walls of the veins weaken, stretch, deform and do not close completely. Excessive stretching of the walls and defects in the valves ultimately lead to the fact that blood flows worse through the vessels, its movement slows down and even stops. First, small veins appear in the form of "stars" or spider legs, and then larger and thicker convoluted veins.
Other symptoms of varicose veins can manifest as:
- burning in the calf, feeling of throbbing;
- leg discomfort, heaviness or pain;
- muscle spasms, cramps, more visible at night;
- swelling of the feet and ankles;
- dry or itchy, pale skin that looks thinner than healthy skin
If there is a tendency to varicose veins or the first symptoms appear, there are several procedures that eliminate discomfort and pain in the legs, help improve blood circulation and tone the veins.
Exercise and physical activity
Regular exercise improves blood circulation in the legs. Muscle contraction helps to push the blood collected in the veins. Exercise also helps to lower blood pressure, which is another negative factor that contributes to varicose veins.
Low intensity exercises help in the contraction of the calf muscles. They work without excessive stress.
Effective low impact exercises include:
- swimming;
- walking;
- cycling;
- yoga.
Compression stockings and tights
Compression stockings are available at most pharmacies and orthopedic stores. They distribute pressure to the legs, compressing the vein walls outside. It helps to transport blood to the heart and relieve blood congestion in the lower extremities. The study found that people who wore knee compression socks that maintained pressure between 18 and 21 mmHg. within a week, he observed a reduction in pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins. It is important to choose socks and tights with a doctor or beauty salon specialist so as not to be confused with the degree of compression.
Plant extracts
Studies have shown that horse chestnut extract can help relieve leg pain, heaviness and itchy skin in people with chronic venous insufficiency (one of the main causes of varicose veins).
A review study reported that sea pine extract and butcher's broom extract can reduce swelling or edema in the legs, which is often associated with varicose veins.
Plant extracts and essential oils must be diluted before being applied to the skin or used in an aromatherapy diffuser.
Changes in diet
Salty or sodium-rich foods contribute to swelling, including in the feet and ankles, so reducing consumption of salty foods can minimize water retention. Foods rich in potassium, such as almonds and pistachios, help prevent and treat varicose veins, reducing water retention in the body. This group includes:
- almonds and pistachios;
- lentils and white beans;
- potato;
- leafy vegetables;
- some types of fish, like salmon and tuna.
Fibrous foods help maintain bowel function and prevent constipation. This can be important, as stress can damage the valves or cause blood to clog in the veins. Fiber rich foods include:
- nuts, seeds and vegetables;
- oats, wheat and flaxseed;
- whole grains.
Overweight people are more likely to suffer from varicose veins, so losing extra pounds can reduce pressure in the veins, swelling and discomfort.
Flavonoids in food
Adding foods containing flavonoids to the diet also helps to reduce the risk of varicose veins. Flavonoids, being biologically active substances, improve blood circulation, maintain uniform blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood accumulation in the veins. They also help to reduce blood pressure in the arteries and relax blood vessels, reducing stress in the veins and reducing the risk of varicose veins.
Foods that contain flavonoids include:
- vegetables: chives, peppers, spinach and broccoli;
- citrus fruits and grapes, cherries, apples and blueberries;
- cocoa;
- garlic.
Herbal Remedies
Some herbal preparations help to tone veins and reduce their deformation. It is believed that taking grape seed extract can reduce leg swelling and other symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, although there is currently little evidence of its effectiveness. If you are drinking blood thinning medications, you should avoid taking grape seed extract as a dietary supplement, as it can interact with the medication and increase the risk of bleeding.
Choosing the right clothes
Wearing tight, fitted and synthetic clothing can restrict blood flow in the legs. Wearing loose, breathable clothing that does not restrict the blood supply to the lower body improves blood flow in the veins and decreases valve deformation.
It is also prohibited to wear tight and tight shoes. Shoes with narrow toes press on blood vessels and cause pain. It is recommended to choose shoes with orthopedic insoles.
Wearing shoes with low heels or with a comfortable and stable sole instead of high heels can also help relieve pain from varicose veins in your legs.
You need to raise your legs more often
Periodically raising your legs, preferably to the same height as your heart, or higher, helps to improve circulation. This reduces pressure in the veins in the legs and gravity helps blood to flow back to the heart smoothly. You should try to lift your legs if you are going to sit for a long time, such as when working or relaxing.
Massage
Lightly massaging your feet, legs and thighs can keep the blood in your veins. You can use mild massage oils or moisturizers for optimal results. However, it is extremely important to avoid direct pressure on the veins, as this can damage fragile tissues. No less useful massage with water jets in the shower, including contrast.
Constant movement
Avoid sitting for long periods. If you have to sit down to work for a long time, you need to make an effort to get up and move, or at least change your position frequently so that blood flows completely through the veins from the legs.
Avoid sitting with your legs crossed, as this can further restrict blood flow to your legs and feet and worsen circulatory problems.
Treatment procedures for varicose veins
If preventive measures at home do not improve the condition of your veins, severe discomfort, pain and swelling occur, medical treatment is necessary to eliminate varicose veins.
The doctor may prescribe the following:
- Endothermic ablation.This is a procedure in which heat is applied to seal the affected veins;
- Ambulatory phlebectomyThe doctor pierces the skin and removes varicose veins through small incisions. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, practically no scar remains;
- Sclerotherapy.This procedure uses a special foam to close the damaged veins. Blood will flow through the bypass vein system;
- Ligation and removal.In this procedure, the varicose veins are surgically removed;
- Laser operations.Intense rays of light are directed at the vein, causing it to disappear;
- Endoscopic surgery.During this operation, a small video camera is inserted into the leg to help the surgeon better see what is happening with the veins. The veins are removed through several small incisions.
Future forecasts
Varicose veins cause discomfort and cosmetic defects. It is possible to prevent varicose veins at home, and changes in diet and lifestyle can reduce unpleasant symptoms. But, as the disease progresses, you need to seek medical help to eliminate visible defects and heal the veins themselves.