Leg recurrence is one of the most common diseases in the world and occurs in one in five people according to the WHO. Pathology of the venous vessels in the lower extremities is associated with failure of the intravenous valves, dilation of the veins, and thinning of the walls. This leads to the reverse flow of blood and its stagnation in the vessels. The patient's movement becomes more difficult, pain syndrome occurs, the ability to work and the quality of life decrease.
Varicose veins in the lower extremities are caused by a number of factors. Therefore, the disease requires accurate diagnosis and competent treatment, which is selected individually for each patient.
In the absence of timely therapy, a detached blood clot can lead to dangerous complications, disability, disability, and even death.
Causes of varicose veins
The blood in the veins travels toward the heart. Therefore, the muscles of the lower extremities as well as the intravenous valves are responsible for preventing blood from flowing in the opposite direction. When the keys fail, blood flows against the movement, the pressure in the veins increases, and they expand. As a result, the venous wall becomes thinner, blood diffuses through it into the surrounding tissues, and swelling and pain occur in the lower extremities.
Factors predisposing to the development of varicose veins include:
- heredity;
- overload of the lower limbs due to overweight, intense physical exercise, carrying weights;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- pulling or pinching the veins of the lower extremities (tight clothing, bandages, sports equipment: expanders, elastic bandages);
- prolonged and regular work in a sitting or standing position without changing posture and regular rest;
- permanent wearing of high heels;
- pregnancy and menopause;
- chronic diseases (constipation, diabetes, kidney and cardiovascular diseases).
In men, the main factor in the development of varicose veins is heredity, unbalanced physical activity and bad habits, while in women, varicose veins are more often associated with hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, wearing uncomfortable shoes.
Symptoms of varicose veins
The first signs of the disease are not physically perceptible, but appear only externally in the form of bulges of dark blue and purple, translucent blood vessels, spider veins and spider veins, and veins above the surface of the skin. twisted cord.
Signs of the next stage of varicose veins are discomfort and pain, pulsation, burning or cramps in the legs, feelings of heaviness and swelling of the lower extremities, itching in the affected area. ship.
Complications of varicose veins
Varicose veins can have serious consequences, causing discomfort and life-threatening. These include:
- trophic eczema or skin ulcer in the affected vein, preceded by whitening of the skin;
- deep vein thrombosis caused by a blood clot from smaller superficial veins;
- pulmonary embolism due to blood clots entering the bloodstream from the veins of the lower extremities;
- rupture of the varicose vein, which is difficult to stop accompanied by copious bleeding.
Diagnosis of varicose veins
Venous problems are dealt with by a phlebologist, but other professionals are also involved in making an accurate diagnosis: an angiologist, a dermatologist, a nutritionist, an endocrinologist, and, if surgery is needed, a vascular surgeon.
At the first consultation, the phlebologist clarifies the symptoms, when they occurred and how often they recur, and asks if other family members have similar problems. In addition, it is important for the doctor to know the patient’s lifestyle and habits.
After a complete examination of the lower extremities, and in particular the disturbing area, the phlebologist may refer the patient for further examinations: ultrasound, phlebography (x-ray of veins), phlebomanometry (three-dimensional computed tomography), phleboscintigraphyintravenous administration of molecules).
In advanced stages or complications, dopplerography (color duplex angioscanning) is considered to be the most accurate method. It allows you to assess the nature of your blood flow, the condition of your valves and deep veins, and to identify the presence of reverse blood flow and blood clots.
Only an accurate diagnosis will allow the doctor to have an optimal treatment plan.
Treatment of varicose veins
The goal of therapy is to identify the causes of the disease and minimize its effects, as well as to eliminate the consequences and prevent complications.
There are three approaches to treating varicose veins: conservative, minimally invasive, and radical surgery.
Conservative treatment of varicose veins includes:
- The use of ointments, gels and tablets based on phlebotonics - substances that improve the tone of veins, the condition of the walls, blood circulation, relieve swelling and discomfort. An effective drug for varicose veins in this group is Detralex, which contains five herbal components that have a beneficial effect on the condition of venous blood vessels. The medicine is available in two forms: tablets and oral suspensions.
- Wearing compression underwear, which creates optimal pressure in problem areas of the legs, prevents the veins from dilating and maintains the tone of the vessel wall.
- Depending on the case, diet therapy may focus on weight loss, strengthening the walls of venous blood vessels, preventing edema, and normalizing stool. Not only the diet itself is important, but also a certain diet as well as the optimal amount of water intake.
- Physiotherapy is needed to improve blood circulation, increase the tone of the muscles and blood vessels in the legs, and eliminate venous stagnation. In addition, physical activity helps to normalize body weight and improves the patient's mental state. Sports battling varicose veins require safety precautions. Especially during exercise, you should wear compression underwear and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and increased blood viscosity. Prolonged static loading and heavy lifting are also prohibited. After training, it is recommended to lie on your back with your feet up to ensure blood flows out of your veins.
Non-invasive methods for removing varicose veins include laser treatment (laser exposure) and radiofrequency ablation (high-frequency current loading). As a result, the walls of the vessel are soldered and the vein soon dissolves.
Sclerotherapy is also performed: sclerosis is injected into the affected vein - a special substance that causes it to become blocked. As a result, blood flow enters the nearest healthy blood vessel and the problematic vein disappears over time. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, after which it is mandatory to wear compression underwear.
In severe cases of varicose veins, a phlebectomy is performed - an operation to remove part or all of the damaged vessel. Such a radical approach is proposed in cases where the patient is contraindicated by the methods of "soldering" as well as the high risk of recurrence of the disease.
In order to prevent varicose veins in the future after surgery, it is necessary to normalize the diet, give up bad habits, take blood thinners and blood vessels to prescribe blood vessels, and perform therapeutic exercises.
Prevention of varicose veins
It includes sports activities (swimming, walking, cycling, light jogging, aerobics), drinking habits, avoiding bad habits, high-heeled shoes, and regular warm-up during sitting, if prescribed by a specialist. doctor wearing compression stockings. In addition, it is important to monitor your general health in order to identify and treat diseases that can cause varicose veins in a timely manner.
If you first suspect a problem with your vessels, you should consult a specialist to begin diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner.