Varicose veins in the legs are a serious pathology that occurs as a result of alteration of the venous valves.A disturbance of the physiological balance occurs between muscle cells, elastin and collagen fibers of the walls of the vessels, as a result of which the veins dilate and ganglia form.Most often, pathology manifests itself on the legs.Without timely treatment, veins become deformed, trophic ulcers develop and blood clots form, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
What causes venous disease of the lower extremities?
Varicose veins are diseases of gradual development and constant progression, the causes of which are most often:
- inheritance associated with a genetic defect;
- obesity and overweight, which increase the load on the vascular system;
- lifestyle and area of activity: prolonged physical activity, standing or, conversely, sedentary work, frequent wearing of too tight and tight clothing, high-heeled shoes, bad habits, unbalanced diet;
- changes and imbalance of hormonal levels, for example, during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
There are 6 stages of varicose veins, each of which is characterized by certain symptoms:
- stage 0: heaviness and pain in the legs, slight swelling, night cramps, but without external manifestations;
- stage 1 – subtle appearance of spider veins or spider veins;
- stage 2: enlargement of veins and the appearance of nodes, which become especially noticeable after prolonged sitting or walking;
- stage 3: noticeable swelling of the legs is added;
- stage 4: trophic changes occur in the extremities: abnormal skin pigmentation, development of skin inflammation;
- stage 5 – formation of trophic ulcers;
- Stage 6: appearance of non-healing trophic ulcers.
The early stages of varicose veins are difficult to diagnose due to symptoms similar to other diseases.But, thanks to advanced diagnostic methods used in clinics, it is possible to identify the pathology and establish a diagnosis accurately.
Methods for diagnosing and treating varicose veins.
Accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment!To identify varicose veins and determine the stage of the disease, Doppler ultrasound is used - a highly informative method that allows you to assess blood flow in the arterial and venous beds and make an accurate diagnosis.
Varicose veins are treated with conservative methods, injections or surgery.The first is carried out in the initial stages of the disease and is aimed at reducing the intensity of symptoms and improving well-being.Unfortunately, this method cannot eliminate the cause and consequences of the disease.The main methods of such therapy include:
- physiotherapy;
- compression therapy - use of elastic bandages and special compression garments;
- pharmacotherapy - taking venotonics and anti-inflammatories that can increase the tone of the venous walls, improve blood flow and eliminate inflammatory processes.
An effective method to treat varicose veins in advanced cases is surgery (removal of a section of the affected veins), venectomy and phlebectomy.As a result of the use of such treatment methods, it is possible to eliminate the defect, as well as eliminate blood reflux and normalize blood flow.
For the treatment of varicose veins, minimally invasive methods are actively used, which have many advantages over other methods:
- safety and effectiveness;
- perform manipulations on an outpatient basis without the need for hospitalization and use of general anesthesia;
- The procedure is performed without incisions or scars;
- quick recovery;
- After the operation, the patient can immediately return to his normal lifestyle.
The following types of minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins are available:
- sclerotherapy - a special substance is injected by injection to glue the walls of the pathological vein.The manipulations are carried out under the control of ultrasonic equipment and are effective in the fight against varicose veins;
- Laser coagulation is a progressive alternative to surgical treatment.The technique is based on the thermal effect of a laser beam on the internal walls of the veins, resulting in the closure of the venous vessels with an excellent aesthetic effect;
- miniphlebectomy - removal of nodules and varicose veins by small punctures in the skin using a special scalpel, needle and hook;
- Closing veins with biological glue: glue the lumen of a vein affected by varicose veins with a special glue.
Please note: each method has certain indications and contraindications, which can be found out during the consultation.A vascular surgeon will help you choose the most appropriate treatment method after a careful study of your medical history and a detailed diagnosis.
Prevention of varicose veins
Timely prevention can prevent the appearance of varicose veins, which is especially important for people at risk.
The main preventive measures are regular visits to a phlebologist, as well as the exclusion of negative factors that are the causes of the pathology;If you follow simple recommendations, you can prevent the disease.Keeping your feet beautiful and healthy is easy if you follow some tips:
- choose wisely when choosing shoes and give preference to comfortable models without high heels;
- get rid of extra kilos and control your weight;
- wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement;
- move more: walk, swim;
- avoid prolonged physical activity with your legs and do not lift heavy objects;
- limit visits to saunas and baths, taking hot baths;
- wearing compression knitwear (for people at high risk);
- perform special gymnastics and massages;
- eat properly and balanced;
- get rid of bad habits.
Learn more about varicose veins, treatment and prevention methods during a consultation with a phlebologist.