A common disease of the legs after thirty years, especially in women, is varicose veins. During the development of this disease, the veins are deformed, their elasticity decreases, and blood flow is blocked. In most cases, the calf muscles at the back of the legs and knees are affected.
Varicose veins on the legs: causes
Factors that cause varicose veins of the lower extremities include:
- Overweight-puts a lot of pressure on the legs. This is especially true for obese people. Therefore, if you have weight problems, we recommend that you actively participate in sports;
- Pregnancy-especially in the last few months, the load on the legs is very obvious, if you don't pay attention to rest often, varicose veins may develop;
- Work related to standing for a long time. If you cannot change jobs, you need to change your attitude to minimize the burden on your legs;
- There is a tumor in the pelvic organs-difficult blood flow out;
- Diseases of the venous walls of the lower extremities, leading to tissue compaction and deterioration of blood flow, and the formation of blood clots;
- Congenital venous insufficiency.
attention! In order to prevent your legs from being injured and covered by minor bruises, we recommend that you keep your legs healthy from an early age. Incorporate moderate exercise in your daily life and minimize the pressure on your legs. The symptom description of the developmental stage of varicose veins of the lower extremities is worthy of attention.
Early stage of varicose veins of the lower extremities: the characteristics of disease development
First of all, it is worth noting that the course of the first stage of varicose veins may be subtle. Moreover, within the framework of medicine, there is even the so-called zero phase of varicose veins. During the process, the patient complained of the same sensation as varicose veins. However, during the examination, it is impossible to determine any symptoms of varicose veins. In this case, prescription treatments are rarely prescribed, and more often doctors recommend practicing a healthy lifestyle.
In the first stage, spider veins or webs appear on the legs. Please note that there is no venous outflow obstruction at this stage. The patient sought help because of a slight dilation of the vein.
Second degree varicose veins
In the second stage, the main venous trunk insufficiency is added to all the symptoms listed. In other words, in addition to heavy legs and slight swelling of leg veins, swelling and blue nodules may also appear. Please note that the size of the knot may increase after sitting for a long time or walking in high heels.
The third stage of varicose veins: the characteristics of disease development
The treatment of the disease at this stage is usually surgery. As for the symptoms of the treatment, the swelling increased significantly, and the legs looked swollen even when I got up in the morning. There may be convulsions. In most cases, it will reduce calf muscles.
attention! To get rid of cramps, you need to stretch your legs and pull the socks towards you. If the leg does not obey, then give it this position with the help of your hand.
A characteristic sign of third degree is the appearance of trophic ulcers or skin discoloration.
Dermatitis or eczema may also occur. Another sign of third-degree varicose veins is dry skin. Due to circulatory system problems, the epidermis loses its elasticity and the surface becomes dry.
Varicose veins: how to treat lower extremities and their swelling
If you are diagnosed with varicose veins, the treatment is the same no matter what stage you are in. The only difference is the duration of treatment.
There are many treatments for varicose veins. One of the most effective ways to treat varicose veins is massage. In order not to hurt it, only professionals can do it. Correctly performed massage can improve the blood circulation of a person's lower limbs. Special pneumatic massage is also used as a compression treatment. Thanks to him, the swelling of the legs has been reduced a lot, the venous blood flow rate has increased, and the blood circulation in the lower limbs has generally improved.
Physical therapy is also used to relieve the load on the venous system of the legs. This is a physical exercise for the legs that is done immediately before going to bed. You can show the exercises you need in any physical therapy room.
In order to reduce the symptoms of the disease and prevent its deterioration, elastic bandages and stockings are used. Wearing elastic stockings can prevent the development of diseases, improve blood flow in the legs, and most importantly, prevent the formation of blood clots. You need to buy compression underwear at a specialized store.
attention! It is best not to save this kind of stockings. After all, if the fabric is not elastic enough, you won't be able to wear it.
For the treatment of varicose veins, blood thinning, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs are used. It can be pills, injections. Treatment should only be prescribed by a doctor and must be performed after a comprehensive examination. Self-administration is prohibited.
Popular methods of treating varicose veins in the legs include leech therapy. During the operation, leeches bite through the skin and inject hirudin, a substance that prevents blood from clotting. As a result, the number of blood clots is reduced.
The use of creams, ointments, and gels can treat and alleviate the course of the disease. You can buy it at any pharmacy without a prescription. In the later stages of the disease, the phlebologist will provide you with timely solutions to problems.
Anyone diagnosed with swelling should follow a special diet. The diet should include foods that are low in cholesterol, rich in protein and vitamins. In this case, the use of seafood in food also has a positive effect on health. Smoked meats, broths, and marinades should be excluded from consumer products, and coffee and alcohol should be avoided.
The patient’s diet should include the following foods:
- Beans, sprouted wheat berries, liver, olive oil or corn oil are all foods rich in vitamin E. It makes our blood vessels elastic;
- In order to strengthen the blood vessel walls and the veins of the lower extremities, vitamins C and P (rutin) are needed. Vitamin C is found in rose hips, sea buckthorn, cabbage, black currants, and of course citrus fruits. Rutin is in the same rose hips, citrus fruits, black currants and black chokeberries. On the basis of these berries, candied fruit or decoction can be made;
- Bioflavonoids make blood vessels easier to move-cut 10 cherries and black cherries into pieces;
- Add fiber-rich foods to your diet to relieve constipation. After all, everyone knows that veins suffer from constipation;
- Be sure to drink at least two liters of water. Due to lack of water consumption, the blood becomes viscous, which increases the load on our veins.
What happens if varicose veins are not cured in time, it is worth saying a few more words. Remember, this type of disease can cause thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, eczema, or trophic ulcers. Don't forget that pulmonary embolism may occur with late varicose veins.
And this disease can cause sudden death. Therefore, if you want to live a healthy and happy life from now on, it is best to see a doctor on time.
After all, the initial disease is easier to cure, and the initial surgery is optional. do not get sick! good luck!