Modern people spend more and more time sitting: in front of the computer or getting to the right place in their car.The more we deprive ourselves of walking, the more we expose ourselves to the risk of developing varicose veins.
More than half of the population of our planet faces this problem in one way or another.The diagnosis of varicose veins dates back to ancient times.The greatest doctors have devoted many years to studying it, but unfortunately they have never been able to obtain the expected results.That is why such a disease still exists today, most often affecting people of working age.What is the cause of this disease?
Varicose veins - causes of appearance
First of all, a conversation about varicose veins should begin with some information about how our circulatory system works.As you know, blood circulates throughout our body and the initiator of this process is our heart: it contracts rhythmically, directing blood into the arteries, vessels, etc.The essence of the process itself is that, having reached the legs, the blood must turn around and make the return journey.And this is where the problem arises that leads to the development of varicose veins.
In addition to the heart, the leg muscles also contribute to the circulation of blood through the vessels.If they are in good condition (constantly contract and relax), there are no problems with the circulation of blood in the vessels.If the veins dilate, a space forms between the valves and the flow of blood slows.The vein stretches and the person suffers from the appearance of varicose veins.
It should be noted that varicose veins do not only occur in the lower extremities: there are cases of dilation of the veins of the abdominal organs, pelvic veins, veins of the testicular and spermatic cord.The most common are varicose veins in the legs.
The reasons for the appearance of varicose veins on the legs include the following factors:
- Extra pounds.One of the most common causes of varicose veins is excess weight, as it creates increased pressure on the veins of the lower extremities.
- Activities that involve standing for excessive periods of time.
- Inactivity or physical inactivity.Unlike the previous factor, the cause of the development of varicose veins can be a “sedentary” lifestyle.
- Pregnancy.Unfortunately, this also increases the risk of varicose veins.The lack of necessary rest when carrying a child in the final stages creates a certain load on the body and, in particular, on the woman's legs.
- Heredity.Oddly enough, but such a disease can be transmitted to you from your parents, grandparents.In addition, varicose veins can be located in completely different places.
It would be a serious mistake to believe that these factors contribute to the formation and development of varicose veins.These are just the main reasons.Hormonal imbalances, frequent stress, even bad habits can trigger this disease.Many will ask: how, for example, can alcohol affect the appearance of varicose veins?The answer is simple.Drinks containing alcohol contribute to dehydration of our body and, as a result, the blood vessels do not receive the required amount of nutrients.
Even seemingly insignificant things, such as tight elastic stockings or socks, impede blood circulation and thus increase the risk of varicose veins.
Symptoms of varicose veins
The disease can progress over several years.At first, varicose veins may be completely asymptomatic.Only occasionally a person can feel heaviness, shooting pain in the legs and cramps in the calf muscles after a long walk.In later stages, symptoms become more and more visible and varicose veins can be identified without doubt.
First of all, signals indicating the appearance of such a problem are shooting pain in the legs, swelling and cramps.It is important that in the case of varicose veins all these symptoms are “stifled” while walking or after sleeping.
We most often attribute this discomfort to fatigue after a hard day at work or after active leisure activities.This is why people identify varicose veins visually.Swollen dark blue veins become visible on the legs and small red-blue spider veins appear.
Many women who struggle with varicose veins deal only with the aesthetic component of the problem, wearing pants or other clothing that hides their legs.You need to fight hard - do not delay the treatment of varicose veins, as the consequences can become more serious.
Methods and means of treating varicose veins
How to find the right treatment for varicose veins?Sometimes a person only needs a certain amount of rest to avoid the first signs of venous deformity.Unfortunately, people turn to specialists when varicose veins are already advanced and immediate surgery is necessary.Below are the different methods of treating varicose veins.
Laser varicose vein treatment
Modern medicine is developing more and more actively, and doctors have the opportunity to treat the disease without drugs.One of these methods is laser treatment of varicose veins or, in other words, coagulation.The essence of this process is to close the lumen of dilated veins.Areas damaged by varicose veins are “welded” using a high-energy laser.The operation does not take much time (about 40 minutes) and that day the patient can go home or return to work.For this reason, this treatment method is called “office surgery.”The most important is the cosmetic effect.After this treatment, no scars remain on the body.
In order for the laser to affect the vein, a special fiber is inserted during the injection.Then the vein contracts, after which the lumen closes.The vein does not participate in blood circulation and is then replaced by connective tissue.This treatment allows you to achieve the effect of eliminating varicose veins.
Despite the effectiveness of this method, unforeseen circumstances are also possible.If treatment for varicose veins is started, veins that have reached a large size may become detached and later return to their place, returning their former discomfort.
Traditional treatment of varicose veins
Recently, people have become more and more skeptical of medical medicine and various surgical interventions.They choose an alternative option: treatment of varicose veins with folk remedies.Such treatment methods have been tested for decades.
Certain plant varieties provide effective home treatment and prevention of varicose veins.Undoubtedly, the desired result will be possible only if they are used correctly.One of these medicinal plants is nettle.
The disadvantage of treating varicose veins with home remedies is expressed in its duration.A decoction of medicinal nettle should be taken in the morning and evening for six months.During home treatment, you should also follow a certain diet: if possible, exclude fatty, fried, salty and sweet foods from your diet.Only as a whole can the rules implemented produce the desired effect.
Another example of a medicinal plant is acacia.White acacia flowers are used in the form of compresses, tinctures and lotions.This remedy promotes the resorption of swollen veins due to varicose veins, giving the legs a feeling of lightness.
Among the traditional methods of treating varicose veins, there are those that help combat swelling and pain in the legs.Apple cider vinegar is proof.
It has special healing properties, so effective in the fight against varicose veins.This product contains many minerals and trace elements that have a beneficial effect on the human body.It also contains vitamins A, B and C.
Treating varicose veins with apple cider vinegar helps strengthen the walls of blood vessels.In addition, it has an anti-inflammatory effect, eliminating swelling and toning the skin.There are several ways to use this product at home:
- Rubbing apple cider vinegar after a bath or shower.
- Compress.To make a compress, you need to apply gauze previously soaked in apple cider vinegar to the damaged area and insulate the area.
- Another way to treat varicose veins is watering.Apple cider vinegar is diluted in water (150 g of vinegar for 2 liters of lukewarm water) and the areas with varicose veins are watered with this solution.
Note!Clay (blue, green or white) is also useful for treating varicose veins.Damaged areas should be covered with clay soaked in cold water.
Other treatments for varicose veins
In addition to surgical removal of veins, treatment of varicose veins at home and laser therapy, there are a number of medications: special ointments, anticoagulants, anti-inflammatories and painkillers.The use of a complex of such drugs is recommended only after prescription from the attending physician.
Massage is another treatment and prevention method that can alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins because it promotes better blood circulation in the body.It is better to entrust varicose vein massage to a qualified specialist, otherwise the effect may be the opposite, aggravating the situation.
Let's dispel the myth!Many people consider hirudotherapy (treatment with leeches) to be an effective method for varicose veins.This is a misconception.Such treatment only promotes blood thinning, which will not affect the main problem of varicose veins - an increase in venous lumen.Additionally, the results of such therapy may be negative for the patient.Pigmentation and prolonged bleeding represent only a small part.Leech saliva contains a large number of allergens that can cause inflammatory reactions in humans.
Varicose vein prevention
Why treat varicose veins if you can prevent their appearance in advance!Following simple rules will help you not only prevent the appearance and long-term treatment of varicose veins, but also improve your health.
We must not forget that the meaning of our whole life is movement.From childhood, we are taught to do morning exercises and take a contrast shower.Not in vain!This is the secret to the health of our entire body.
I love sports.You don't have to torture yourself with grueling workouts.You can choose the sport you like.The main thing is to constantly be in motion and not let your body gain unnecessary pounds, which can provoke the appearance of varicose veins.In this case, special attention should be paid to nutrition: if possible, exclude fatty foods or try to minimize their quantity.Remember: we are what we eat.
We abandon everyone's favorite pose: "leg to leg".In this position, blood circulation is disrupted, which also negatively affects the lower extremities and contributes to the development of varicose veins.It is best to place a small bench or stand under your feet.
Make sure your shoes are comfortable, have low heels, and that the elastic on your socks and stockings don't tighten your feet.
Reconsider your lifestyle and never forget that our health is in our hands!