Varicose veins in the lower extremities are deformities of the surface of the blood vessels that cause problems with the function of the venous valves and damage to blood flow. This disease is the most common vascular pathology among people of working age.
Consider whether conservative treatment of varicose veins in the lower extremities will help cope with the problem. But first, let’s get acquainted with the clinical picture of pathology.
Symptoms of varicose veins
The main signs of varicose veins are:
- severe leg syndrome, pain and swelling, especially at the end of the day;
- presence of capillary stars and vascular network;
- appearance of veins with altered hue;
- protrusion of blood vessels above skin level.
It has been proven that the disease can develop over decades.
In order not to lead to complications, it is important to consult a doctor and should be examined when the first symptoms appear.
Causes of varicose veins
The causes of this problem in the veins are as follows:
- heredity in the form of a genetic predisposition to the disease;
- overweight;
- wearing tight clothing or high heels;
- hormonal imbalances and other diseases;
- malnutrition or addictions;
- in the form of injury or inflammation in the body;
- strenuous physical activity on the legs during sports exercises or work process;
- a sedentary lifestyle or prolonged sitting during the day;
- high levels of cholesterol in the blood;
- during pregnancy when a woman is gaining weight fast.
Varicose veins treatment: Medical procedures
Many procedures are now known to be performed on the varicose veins of the lower extremities. Each has its own benefits, but they work best in combination with medication. The doctor must make the final decision in one direction or another, only then can complications and serious consequences be avoided.
The treatment is performed using the following popular and effective procedures:
- Wrapping. Useful and pleasant vein treatment that is effective both at home and in the salon. You can buy the ingredients you need at pharmacies. In addition to relaxation, the wrap improves well-being and relieves lower limb heaviness;
- Baths for varicose veins - remove the load on the legs, strengthen the blood vessels, relieve swelling and relieve redness. Such treatment of the disease is carried out by the addition of herbs. The duration of the procedure is 20 minutes. The results will only be noticeable with daily use;
- Physiotherapy for varicose veins is an effective complement to the general program of therapeutic interventions. The procedures are painless and inexpensive, but can only be performed in health care facilities. During treatment, the venous wall is strengthened, the work of the valves is significantly improved;
- The lower limbs are massaged only with the permission of a phlebologist. The procedure relieves fatigue, normalizes blood circulation and removes the main signs of the disease. The duration of the massage for this disease is 10 minutes.
Conservative treatment of varicose veins: compression therapy
Compression therapy is used not only to combat varicose veins but also to prevent thrombosis and get rid of nodules. Such a preventative measure is effective for all venous problems because there is point pressure in the legs. As a result, the operation of the valves is partially adjusted and the blood flow rate is accelerated. The advantage is to use such treatment at later stages when complications are possible. It is important that you do not stop wearing stockings after you have finished your treatment so that your symptoms do not return in the future.
Compression stockings - you can buy such clothes at any medical store where a specialist will help you choose the right size. The length and strength of compression garments vary. They wear such stockings for an average of 6 months, after which they elongate and do not perform their functions. Treating the disease requires wearing constant stockings throughout the day.
Compression bandages - when used correctly, have healing properties for the disease, this can only be done by professionals.
Bandages should fit snugly, should not slip off while moving, and should not cause discomfort. The advantages of the bandages are the following: with their help the compression is more effective, the application to the veins does not require effort, as the doctor does, without removal, it can be worn continuously for a week, it fits optimally to the foot, the volume is reduced, the lower limbs are stretched. . .
Disadvantage is not aesthetics, you have to go to the hospital to apply.
Prevention of varicose veins
Knowing the causes of the disease, it is important to follow some rules that will help keep your veins healthy for a long time.
Consider what you need to do to prevent varicose veins:
- Daily physical activity. You don’t have to go to the gym, you just have to climb the stairs instead of using the elevator or walk instead of driving. You can go cycling on the weekends. Swimming will have a good effect on your blood vessels and will also correct your weight;
- When sitting, you need to adjust your activity and rest periods. To facilitate the flow of blood in the veins, it is recommended to place your foot on a nearby chair. Move about once an hour for 3 minutes. Good results are shown by the unobtrusive gymnastics, which can be performed in a sitting position. Elemental exercises are movements from the heel to the toes or circular movements of the foot;
- Make sure you eat right, give up snacks, sandwiches and fatty foods. Strengthen your blood vessels by eating foods rich in vitamin C and routinely. Consumption of at least 1. 5 liters per day is mandatory. clean water;
- Uncomfortable shoes or tight clothing should become taboo when preventing disease. Walking in high heels or platform shoes is rare. For daily movement, the height of the heel should not exceed 4 cm;
- In case of inheritance, it is recommended to take annual drug prevention courses before the onset of venous insufficiency;
- To prevent varicose veins during pregnancy, it is recommended to wear special compression stockings or stockings. It is recommended to wear such underwear from the age of 2 months. pregnancy. If necessary, you can continue to wear it after the baby is born;
- It is better to give up bad habits, namely smoking or frequent alcohol consumption. In the first case, the blood vessels become clogged, and in the second case, they become sharply dilated and narrowed. All this provokes diseases;
- Contrast lavage should be performed for normal venous function. This keeps the blood vessels in good shape.
As you can see, preventing varicose veins in the lower extremities is easy. It is important that all these activities become a daily habit, only then can you stay healthy for a long time.