One of the problems faced by many women and about 15% of men is varicose leg veins. In this disease, the vessels in the legs (veins), which supply blood rich in carbon dioxide and waste products from metabolism, become deformed, dilated, discolored, and appear under the skin. / p>
In addition to cosmetic defects, changes in the structure of veins and impaired blood circulation lead to a feeling of discomfort in the legs, even soreness, edema, and a feeling of heaviness. Although there are many medical tools and procedures to support the treatment, it is important that, at the outset, as soon as the first signs of varicose veins appear, take the prevention - thiswill help to avoid pain, swelling, leg fatigue, and external cosmetic defects.
What's the problem?
Varicose veins, commonly known as varicose veins, are severe changes in the wall of the veins, weakening, over-stretching, so that swollen dark blue or purple twisted veins appear underskin. In the first stage, small "stars" from the capillaries expand, small wreaths and then larger wreaths may appear.
Veins have a special structure: in addition to elastic walls, they also have small valves (pockets) that prevent blood from flowing in the opposite direction. Varicose veins form when the valves in the vein wall weaken, stretch, deform and do not close completely. Excessive stretching of the walls and valve defects eventually lead to the fact that blood flows through poorer vessels, its movement slows down and even stops. First, small veins appear as "stars" or spider legs, then thicker twisted veins appear.
Other symptoms of varicose veins may manifest as:
- burning in calves, throbbing pain;
- leg discomfort, feeling of heaviness or soreness;
- muscle spasm, cramps, more noticeable at night;
- swelling of the feet and ankles;
- dry or itchy, pale skin looks thinner than healthy skin
If there is a tendency to varicose veins or the first symptoms appear, there are a few tricks that help to remove discomfort and pain in the legs, help improve blood circulation and firm the veins. x / p>
Exercise and physical activity
Regular exercise improves blood circulation in the legs. Muscle contraction helps to 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 exercise helps to contract leg muscles. They work without undue stress.
Effective, low impact exercises include:
- swim;
- walk;
- cycling;
- yoga.
Compression socks and tights
Compression socks are available in most pharmacies and orthopedic stores. They distribute pressure down the legs, squeezing the walls of the veins from the outside. It helps move blood to the heart and reduces blood congestion in the lower extremities. Research shows that people who use knee-length compression socks maintain a pressure between 18 and 21 mmHg. Within a week, noted relief of pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins. It is important to choose socks and tights with a doctor or salon professional so that they do not get confused with the degree of compression.
Plant extract
Studies have shown that horse chestnut extract can help relieve leg pain, aggravation and itchiness in people with chronic venous insufficiency (one of the main causes of varicose veins). x / p>
A review report that sea pine and butcher broom extract can reduce swelling or swelling of the legs, often associated with varicose veins.
Botanical extracts and essential oils should be diluted before applying to the skin or used in an essential oil diffuser.
Change the
diet
Salty or sodium-rich foods contribute to swelling, including in the feet and ankles, so cutting back on salty foods can minimize water retention. Potassium-rich foods like almonds and pistachios help prevent and treat varicose veins by reducing fluid retention in the body. This group includes:
- almonds and pistachios;
- lentils and white beans;
- potatoes;
- leafy vegetables;
- certain 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 a valve or cause blood to become blocked in a vein. High-fiber foods include:
- nuts, seeds and legumes;
- oats, wheat and flax seeds;
- whole grains.
Overweight people are more likely to experience varicose veins, so losing extra weight can reduce the pressure on the veins, reduce swelling and discomfort.
Flavonoids in foods
Adding flavonoid-containing foods to your diet also helps reduce the risk of varicose veins. Flavonoids, which are bioactive, improve blood circulation, maintain uniform blood flow and reduce the possibility of blood accumulation in the veins. They also help lower blood pressure in the arteries and relax blood vessels, reduce the stress on veins and reduce the risk of varicose veins.
Foods containing flavonoids include:
- vegetables: scallions, bell peppers, spinach and broccoli;
- citrus and grapes, cherries, apples, and blueberries;
- cocoa;
- garlic.
Several herbal preparations help to firm the veins and reduce their distortion. It is believed that taking grape seed extract may reduce swelling of the legs and other symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, although there is currently little evidence of its effectiveness. If you are taking blood thinners, you should avoid taking grape seed extract as a dietary supplement, as it can interact with the medication and increase your risk of bleeding.
Choose suitable clothes
Wearing tight, tight, and synthetic clothing can limit blood flow in your legs. Wear loose, well-ventilated, unrestricted blood supply to the lower body will improve venous blood flow and reduce valve deformation.
Tight and tight shoes are also prohibited. Shoes with narrow toes put pressure on blood vessels and cause pain. Choose shoes with orthopedic sole.Wearing low heel or comfortable, stable soles instead of high heels can also help relieve varicose pain in the leg.
Need to raise the leg more often
Periodically raise your legs upwards, ideally at heart height or taller, which helps to improve circulation. This reduces the pressure in the veins of the legs, and the gravity helps the blood flow to the heart smoothly. You should try to raise your legs if you intend to sit for long periods, such as while working or resting.
Massage
Gently massaging the feet, legs, and thighs can keep the blood in your veins. You can use gentle massage oils or moisturizers for optimal results. However, it is extremely important to avoid direct pressure on the veins, as this can damage delicate tissues. Equally useful with water jets in the shower, including contrasting water jets.
Constant motion
Avoid sitting for long periods of time. If you have to sit at work for long periods of time, try to get up and walk, or at least regularly change your position so that the blood flows adequately through the veins from your legs.
Avoid sitting cross-legged as this can further restrict blood flow to the legs and feet and aggravate circulation problems.
Vein varicose treatment protocol
If home precautions do not improve the condition of your veins, causing severe discomfort, pain, and swelling, medical treatment is needed to get rid of varicose veins.
The doctor may prescribe the following:
- Heat dissipation.This is a process in which heat is applied to seal affected veins;
- Emergency Vein ResectionThe doctor pierces the skin and removes varicose veins through small incisions. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, practically without leaving scars;
- Sclerotherapy.This procedure uses a special foam to close damaged veins. Blood will flow through the bridging venous system;
- Constraint and excision.During this procedure, varicose veins are surgically removed;
- Laser actions.Intense beams of light are directed into the vein, causing it to fade;
- Laparoscopic surgery.During this surgery, a small video camera is inserted into the leg to give the surgeon a clearer view of what's going on with the veins. The veins are removed through a number of small incisions.
Forecasting the future
Varicose veins are bothersome and aesthetically impaired. Varicose veins can be prevented at home, and making dietary and lifestyle changes can relieve unpleasant symptoms. But as the disease progresses, you need to seek medical help to remove the visible defects and heal the veins on their own.