One of the problems in many women and approx. 15% of men are varicose veins in the legs. In this disease, the vessels in the legs (veins), which return blood rich in carbon dioxide and waste metabolism products, become deformed, dilated, lose their tone and appear under the skin.
In addition to cosmetic defects, changes in the structure of the veins and decreased blood circulation lead to unpleasant sensations in the legs and even pain, edema and a feeling of heaviness. Although there are various medical tools and procedures that help in the treatment, it is important from the very beginning, as soon as the first signs of varicose veins appear, to engage in prevention - this will help avoid pain, swelling, tired legs, externalcosmetic defects.
What's the problem?
Varicose veins, often called varicose veins, are severe changes in the vein wall, its weakness, excessive stretching, as a result of which dark blue or purple twisted swollen veins appear under the skin. In the initial step, small "stars" from enlarged capillaries, small wreaths and then larger ones may appear.Veins have a special structure: in addition to the elastic wall, they also have small valves (pockets) that prevent blood from flowing in the opposite direction. Varicose veins form when the valves on the walls of the veins weaken, stretch, deform and do not close completely. Excessive stretching of walls and valve failure ultimately causes the blood to flow worse through the vessels, the movement goes slower and even stops. First, small veins appear in the form of "stars" or spider legs, and then thicker twisted veins appear.
Other symptoms of varicose veins may manifest as:
- burning in the calf, throbbing sensation;
- discomfort in the legs, feeling of heaviness or tenderness;
- muscle spasms, cramps, more noticeable at night;
- swelling of the feet and ankles;
- dry or itchy, light skin that looks thinner than healthy skin
If there is a tendency for varicose veins, or the first symptoms appear, there are a number of 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 push the blood that has accumulated in the veins. Exercise also helps lower blood pressure, which is another negative factor that contributes to varicose veins.
Low intensity training helps to gather the muscles in the leg. They work without unnecessary stress.
Effective exercises with low power include:
- swimming;
- go;
- cycling;
- yoga.
Compression stockings and tights
Compression stockings are available at most pharmacies and orthopedic stores. They distribute pressure on the legs and press the walls of the veins from the outside. It helps move blood to the heart and relieve blood clots in the lower extremities. The study found that individuals who wore knee-length compression stockings that maintained a pressure between 18 and 21 mmHg. within a week, noticed a reduction in pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins. It is important to choose socks and tights with a doctor or salon specialist so as not to mistake the degree of compression.
Plant Extractor
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 leading causes of varicose veins).
A review study reported that pine extract and butcher herd extract can reduce swelling in the legs or edema, 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.
Dietary changes
Salty or sodium-rich foods contribute to swelling, including in the feet and ankles, so cutting down on salty foods can minimize water retention. High potassium foods, such as almonds and pistachios, help prevent and treat varicose veins by reducing water retention in the body. This group includes:
- almonds and pistachios;
- lentils and white beans;
- potato;
- leafy vegetables;
- some types of fish, such as salmon and tuna.
Fiber foods help maintain bowel function and prevent constipation. This can be important as stress can damage valves or cause blood to clot in the veins. Foods high in fiber include:
- nuts, seeds and legumes;
- oats, wheat and flaxseed;
- whole grains.
Obese people are more likely to suffer from varicose veins, so losing extra pounds can reduce the pressure on veins, reduce swelling and discomfort.
Flavonoids in food
Adding foods containing flavonoids to the diet also helps reduce the risk of varicose veins. Flavonoids, which are biologically active substances, improve blood circulation, maintain uniform blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clots in the veins. They also help lower blood pressure in the arteries and relax blood vessels, reduce stress on veins and reduce the risk of varicose veins.
Foods that contain flavonoids include:
- vegetables: green onions, peppers, spinach and broccoli;
- citrus and grapes, cherries, apples and blueberries;
- cocoa;
- garlic.
Herbal remedies
Some herbal remedies help tone the veins and reduce their deformation. It is believed that taking grape seed extract can reduce swelling in the legs and other symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, although there is currently little evidence of its effectiveness. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, avoid taking grape seed extract as a dietary supplement as it may interact with the medication and increase the risk of bleeding.
Choosing the right clothes
Wearing tight, tight and synthetic clothing can restrict blood flow to your legs. Wearing loose breathable clothing that does not restrict the blood supply to the lower body improves blood flow through the veins and reduces deformation of the valves.
It is also forbidden to wear tight and tight shoes. Shoes with narrow toes put pressure on the blood vessels and cause pain. It is recommended to choose shoes with orthopedic insoles.
Wearing shoes with low heels or with a comfortable, stable sole instead of high heels can also help relieve the pain of varicose veins in the legs.
Need to raise your legs more often
Lifting the legs up at regular intervals, ideally to the same height as the heart or higher, helps to improve circulation. This reduces the pressure in the legs and gravity helps the blood flow back to the heart. You should try to lift your legs if you intend to sit for long periods, eg when working or resting.
Massage
Light massage of your feet, legs and thighs can keep the blood in your veins. You can use gentle massage oils or moisturizer for optimal results. However, it is extremely important to avoid pressure directly on the veins as this can damage fragile tissues. No less useful massage with water jets in the shower, including a contrast.
Constant motion
Avoid sitting for extended periods. If you are going to sit in the workplace for a long time, you should strive to get up and move or at least change position frequently so that blood flows completely through the veins from the legs.
Avoid sitting cross-legged, as this can further restrict blood flow to the legs and feet and aggravate circulatory problems.
Treatment procedures for varicose veins
If preventative measures at home have not improved the condition of your veins, causing severe discomfort, pain and swelling, medical treatment is needed to remove varicose veins.
Your doctor may prescribe the following:
- Endothermic ablation.This is a procedure in which heat is used 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, there are practically no scars left;
- Sclerotherapy.This procedure uses a special foam to close damaged veins. Blood will flow through the bypass-venous system;
- Ligation and removal.In this procedure, varicose veins are surgically removed;
- Laser functions.Intense bursts 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 see better what is happening to the veins. The veins are removed through several small incisions.