Varicose veins of the legs are a serious pathology that occurs due to rupture of the venous valves.A disruption of the physiological balance occurs between muscle cells, elastin and collagen fibers of the vessel walls, resulting in dilation of the veins and the formation of knots.Most often, the pathology manifests itself in the legs.Without timely treatment, the veins become deformed, trophic ulcers develop, and blood clots form, which can cause serious complications and even cause death.
What are the causes of venous disease of the lower extremities
Varicose veins are diseases with 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 scope of activity: prolonged physical activity, standing or, conversely, sedentary work, frequent use of too tight and tight clothes, high-heeled shoes, bad habits, unbalanced diet;
- changes and imbalance in hormone 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 varicose veins or varicose veins;
- stage 2 – enlargement of the veins and the appearance of knots, which become particularly noticeable after prolonged sitting or walking;
- stage 3 – significant swelling in the legs is added;
- stage 4 – trophic changes occur in the limbs: abnormal skin pigmentation, development of skin inflammation;
- stage 5 – formation of trophic ulcers;
- stage 6 – appearance of non-healed 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 pathology and accurately establish a diagnosis.
Methods for the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins
An 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 evaluate blood flow in arterial and venous beds, making an accurate diagnosis.
Varicose veins are treated with conservative, injection or surgical methods.The first is carried out in the initial stages of the disease and aims to reduce the intensity of symptoms and improve well-being.Unfortunately, this method is not able to eliminate the cause and consequences of the disease.The main methods of such therapy include:
- physical therapy;
- compression therapy: wearing elastic bandages and special compression garments;
- pharmacotherapy - taking venotonics and anti-inflammatory drugs that can increase the tone of the venous walls, improve blood flow and eliminate inflammatory processes.
An effective method of treating varicose veins in advanced cases is surgical intervention - 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 efficacy;
- carry out manipulations on an outpatient basis without the need for hospitalization and the use of general anesthesia;
- the procedure occurs without incisions or scars;
- fast recovery;
- After the operation the patient will be able to 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.Manipulations are carried out under the control of ultrasound 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, determining the closure of the venous vessels with an excellent aesthetic effect;
- miniphlebectomy – removal of knots and varicose veins through small punctures in the skin using a special scalpel, needle and hook;
- Closure of veins with biological glue - gluing the lumen of a vein affected by varicose veins with a special glue.
Note: each method has some indications and contraindications that you can verify 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 the phlebologist, as well as the exclusion of negative factors that are the cause of the pathology: by adhering to simple recommendations it is possible to 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 pounds and monitor your weight;
- wear comfortable clothes that do not restrict movement;
- move more: walk, swim;
- avoid prolonged physical activity on the legs and do not lift heavy objects;
- limit visits to saunas and baths, taking hot baths;
- wear compression hosiery (for people at high risk);
- perform special gymnastics and massages;
- eat correctly and balanced;
- get rid of bad habits.
Learn more about varicose veins, treatment and prevention methods during a consultation with a phlebologist.