Varicose veins of the legs after the age of thirty, especially in women, are varicose veins. During the development of this disease, the veins are deformed, their elasticity decreases, and blood flow is disturbed. The muscles of the legs and the back of the knee are most commonly affected.
Varicose veins of the legs: causes
Factors that lead to the appearance of varicose veins of the lower extremities are:
- overweight - creates great pressure on the legs. This is especially true for obese people. Therefore, if you have weight problems, we recommend that you do sports intensively;
- pregnancy - especially in recent months, the load on the legs is quite noticeable and if you do not pay constant attention to rest, varicose veins can develop;
- work associated with a long stay on your feet. If it is not possible to change the job, you must change your attitude towards it and try to reduce the load on your feet;
- the presence of tumors in the pelvic organs - blood flow is difficult;
- diseases of the walls of the veins of the lower extremities, which lead to compaction of tissues and worsening of blood flow, and to the formation of blood clots;
- congenital venous valve insufficiency.
Attention! In order for your feet not to hurt and not to be covered with minor bruises, we recommend that you take care of maintaining the health of your feet from an early age. Include moderate exercise in your daily routine and try to reduce the strain on your legs. It is worth paying attention to the description of symptoms during the development of the phases of varicose veins of the lower extremities.
The initial stage of varicose veins of the lower extremities: features of disease development
First of all, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the course of the first phase of varicose veins can be imperceptible. Moreover, within medicine there is even a so-called zero stage of varicose veins. During its duration, the patient complains of the same sensations as with varicose veins. But during the examination, it is impossible to determine any symptoms of varicose veins. And treatment in this case is rarely prescribed, more often doctors recommend practicing a healthy lifestyle.
In the first phase, spider veins or webs appear on the legs. Keep in mind that there are no venous outflow disorders at this stage. Patients seek help for mild varicose veins.
Second degree varicose veins
In the second phase, insufficiency of the main venous trees is added to all the already mentioned symptoms. In other words, in addition to heaviness in the legs and a slight dilation of the veins in the legs, swelling and bluish nodules may occur. Keep in mind that the size of the knots may increase after sitting or walking on high heels for a long time.
The third phase of varicose veins: characteristics of disease development
The treatment of the disease at this stage is, most often, surgery. As for the symptoms of the flow, the swelling increases significantly, the legs look swollen even in the morning. Convulsions may occur. It usually reduces the muscles of the lower leg.
Attention! To get rid of cramps, you need to stretch your leg and pull the sock towards you. If the leg does not obey, then give it this position with the help of the hands.
A characteristic sign of the third degree is the appearance of trophic ulcers or changes in skin color.
Dermatitis or eczema may also occur. Another sign of third degree varicose veins is dry skin. The epidermis loses elasticity due to circulation problems and the surface becomes dry.
Varicose veins: how to treat the lower extremities and their swelling
If you have been diagnosed with varicose veins, regardless of the stage, the treatment will be identical. The only difference will be in the duration of the treatment.
The treatment for varicose veins can be varied. One of the most effective methods of treating varicose veins is massage. In order not to harm it, it should be done only by a professional. Properly done massage improves blood circulation in a person's lower extremities. Special pneumatic massage is also used as a type of compression treatment. Thanks to it, the swelling of the legs becomes much less, the venous outflow of blood is accelerated, and a general improvement in blood circulation in the lower extremities is observed.
Physical therapy is also suitable for relieving the venous system of the legs. It is a kind of physical education for the legs that is performed just before bedtime. You can show the exercises you need in any room for physical therapy.
Elastic bandages and socks are used to reduce the symptoms of the disease and to prevent it from getting worse. Wearing compression stockings can stop the development of the disease, improve blood flow in the legs and, most importantly, prevent the formation of blood clots. You need to pick up compression underwear at a specialty store.
Attention! It is better not to skimp on such socks. After all, if the fabric is not elastic enough, you will not be able to wear them.
Blood thinners, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs are used to treat varicose veins. These can be tablets, injections. Treatment should be prescribed only by a doctor and only after a complete examination. Self-medication is prohibited.
Popular methods of treating varicose veins include hirudotherapy. During the procedure, leeches, biting the skin, inject hirudin, a substance that prevents blood clotting. As a result, the number of blood clots decreases.
Treatment and alleviation of the course of the disease is possible by using creams, ointments, gels. You can buy them at any pharmacy and you do not need a prescription for that. In the later stages of the disease, a phlebologist will offer you a quick solution to the problem.
Anyone diagnosed with an increase should follow a special diet. The diet should include foods low in cholesterol and rich in protein and vitamins. In this case, the use of seafood in food also has a positive effect on health. Smoked meat, soups, marinades, coffee and alcohol should be excluded from the consumed products.
The patient's diet should include the following foods:
- legumes, sprouted wheat grains, liver, olive or corn oil are foods rich in vitamin E. It gives our veins elasticity;
- Vitamins C and P (rutin) are needed to strengthen the walls of blood vessels and veins of the lower extremities. Vitamin C is present in pomegranate, sea buckthorn, cabbage, black currant and, of course, citrus. And rutin is in the same pomegranate, citrus, black currant and black chokeberry. Compotes or decoctions can be made on the basis of these berries;
- bioflavonoids facilitate movement through the veins - eat 10 cherries and dark cherries in pieces;
- Include fiber-rich foods in your diet to relieve constipation. After all, everyone knows that veins suffer from constipation;
- be sure to drink at least two liters of water. With a lack of water consumed, the blood becomes viscous and thus increases the load on our veins.
It is worth saying a few words about what will happen if the varicose veins do not heal in time. Remember that such a disease can cause thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, eczema or trophic ulcers. Remember that advanced varicose veins can lead to pulmonary embolism.
And this disease can cause sudden death. Therefore, if you want to live a healthy and happy life for the rest of your life, then it is better to consult your doctor on time.
After all, it is easier to cure the disease in the initial phase, and surgery at the beginning of the disease is not mandatory. Don't be sick! Good luck!