The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, diagnostic tests should be ordered only by the attending physician. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment, you should contact a specialist.
Varicose veins are one of the most common vascular diseases. It affects about 25% of women and 10% of men worldwide. This disease is a pathological process in which the veins swell and protrude. It is caused by poor circulation of blood vessels. As a result, blood accumulates and stretches their walls. They become too thin, manifesting as a bluish mesh on the skin. The main reason for the development of the disease is considered hormonal changes. Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, labor, and menopause are all reasons why women are more susceptible to this condition and more interested in treatment than men.
Signs of varicose veins in women
Quite often, patients miss the early stages of the disease. They suggested that the symptoms accompanying the disease were general illness, uncomfortable shoes, bad weather conditions, decreased barometric pressure, etc. v. Such tactics are wrong. It is very important to notice the main signs of varicose veins in the early stages. In this case, his treatment will be easier and quicker. The most common symptoms of the disease include:
- Swollen feet. It is worth noting that the limbs will be poured simultaneously and separately.
- Vascular mesh on the skin of the legs.
- Itching and burning sensation in the calf.
- Increased pigmentation of the skin of the feet.
- The vessels in the lower extremities are clearly visible even to the naked eye.
- A feeling of heaviness in the legs, worse at night.
- Convulsions in the lower extremities.
In addition to the above characteristic manifestations, the veins in the legs are increased sensitivity. A woman, when palpating them, will experience painful sensations. Bruises and wounds on the legs that do not heal for a long time. Injuries happen even from the smallest blows. The extremities are eventually covered with ulcers. All of these symptoms get worse after standing or exercising for long periods of time. If you detect at least one or more of these symptoms at the same time, you should immediately contact a qualified specialist.
The reasons for the development of the disease
As a rule, the disease occurs against the background of the individual characteristics of the organism, which depends on the lifestyle of the patient and her genetic predisposition. The main congenital cause of the development of the disease is considered excessive weakening of the valve apparatus of the veins. However, medicine already knows the factors that cause this disease. The most popular are:
- systematically in a standing position;
- sedentary work;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- overweight;
- excessive physical activity;
- uncomfortable shoes;
- bad habits.
In addition, women are more susceptible to this disease due to pregnancy. Varicose veins of the lower extremities can manifest directly both during pregnancy and after childbirth.
Very often, pathology of the cardiovascular system is a provoking factor. They are accompanied by problems with blood flow through the veins. This leads to chronic valve failure. Against the background of these processes, blood in the veins stagnates. It overwhelms them and promotes stretching. Buttons and seals are formed. Over time, deformation of the vessel wall occurs. Under the influence of these processes, the nutritional properties of the legs are disturbed. Complications appear on the calves in the form of long-term non-healing wounds.
Which doctor should I see?
The disease is not only unsightly, but also brings significant discomfort and can lead to dangerous consequences. Therefore, at the first atypical changes in health status, a woman should seek medical attention. Initially, you should see a therapist. It is this doctor who will listen to the patient's complaints and advise her to contact a specialist. The diagnosis and treatment of this pathology is carried out by:
- Phlebologist
- Vascular surgeon
Before telling how to treat varicose veins in women, the physician should familiarize himself with the clinical presentation. To do this, he will conduct a survey in which he will ask the patient:
- How long ago did you start worrying about unpleasant feelings?
- How much time do you spend on your feet?
- Does lower extremity swelling bother you?
- What does your professional activity involve?
- What chronic illnesses do you have in your history?
- Is there a genetic factor to the disease?
- Do you use endocrine drugs?
After the interview, the doctor will examine and palpate the affected limb. He will also assign the passage of instrument and laboratory tests. Their results will help you make the most accurate diagnosis.
Conservative treatment of varicose veins in the legs in women
As soon as the test data is received, the doctor will begin to map out a treatment plan focused on eliminating the disease. The method of treatment is selected on a case-by-case basis. In the early stages, specialists use conservative therapies. This type of treatment involves the use of drugs from the following groups:
- Phlebotonikov. They reduce cramps.
- Analgesic. These drugs relieve pain.
- The drug reduces the risk of blood clots forming.
In addition, many experts recommend that women wear compression underwear. Socks are chosen by the doctor. He also shows how to use them correctly. During treatment, you should refuse to go to saunas and hot baths. High temperature expands wonw and reduces its timbre. Doctors recommend going to the pool 2-3 times a week.
Diet also plays an important role in eliminating the disease. A woman with varicose veins should refuse:
- flour;
- coffee and tea;
- sweet;
- fatty and fried.
You should enrich your diet with freshly squeezed juices. This can be citrus, blueberry and apricot nectar. If your doctor sees a high risk of blood clots, he or she should recommend pumpkin juice. Fasting days also have a beneficial effect. They will allow the body to get rid of toxins and excess weight. You need to spend such days no more than three times a month. In some cases, doctors prescribe hirudotherapy. It also has a positive effect on the state of the vessels of the lower extremities.
Surgical treatment
If the disease is already in an advanced stage, then you can not do without the intervention of a vascular surgeon. This specialist will perform surgery to treat varicose veins of the lower extremities. The most popular and effective methods are:
- Gelation. It can be laser or radio frequency. Today, this type of treatment is performed under local anesthesia and can be rehabilitated on an outpatient basis.
- Vein removal. This type of treatment aims to remove the nodes and remove the veins that have become disfigured.
- Therapy therapy. It gives injection points. In some of the most severe cases, the procedure is performed under the supervision of an ultrasound machine.
All of the above techniques are aimed at removing nodules and sealing. After surgery, it's important to do your best to avoid recurrence. Therefore, all appointments of the attending physician should be followed.