Varicose veins in the legs are a serious condition that occurs as a result of disruption of the venous valves.There is a disruption in the physiological balance between muscle cells, elastin and collagen fibers in the vessel walls, causing the veins to expand and form knots.Most often the pathology manifests itself in the legs.Without timely treatment, the veins deform, trophic ulcers develop and blood clots form, which can cause serious complications and even lead to death.
What causes venous disease of the lower extremities?
Varicose veins are diseases with gradual development and constant progression, the causes of which are most common:
- Inheritance related to a genetic defect;
- Obesity and overweight, which increase the load on the vascular system;
- Lifestyle and field of activity: prolonged physical activity, standing or vice versa sitting work, frequent wearing of too tight and tight clothing, high-heeled shoes, bad habits, unbalanced diet;
- Changes and imbalances in hormone levels, for example during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
There are 6 stages of varicose veins, each characterized by specific symptoms:
- Stage 0 – feeling of heaviness and pain in the legs, slight swelling, night cramps, but no external manifestations;
- Stage 1 – subtle appearance of spider veins or spider veins;
- Stage 2 – enlargement of the veins and appearance of nodules that become particularly visible after prolonged sitting or walking;
- Stage 3 – noticeable swelling of the legs occurs;
- Stage 4 – trophic changes occur in the limbs: abnormal skin pigmentation, development of skin inflammation;
- Stage 5 – Formation of trophic ulcers;
- Stage 6 – the appearance of non-healing trophic ulcers.
The earliest stages of varicose veins are difficult to diagnose due to similar symptoms to other diseases.However, thanks to advanced diagnostic methods used in clinics, it is possible to detect pathologies and make an accurate diagnosis.
Methods for diagnosing and treating varicose veins
An accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment!To detect varicose veins and determine the stage of the disease, Doppler ultrasound is used - an extremely informative method that allows you to assess the blood flow in the arterial and venous beds and make an accurate diagnosis.
Varicose veins are treated using conservative, injection or surgical methods.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 is not able to eliminate the cause and consequences of the disease.The main methods of such therapy include:
- physiotherapy;
- Compression therapy – wearing elastic bandages and special compression clothing;
- Pharmacotherapy – taking venotonics and anti-inflammatory drugs that can increase the tone of the venous walls, improve blood circulation and eliminate inflammatory processes.
An effective method of treating varicose veins in advanced cases is surgery – removal of part of the affected veins – venectomy and phlebectomy.By using such treatment methods, it is possible to eliminate the defect, as well as eliminate blood reflux and normalize blood flow.
To treat varicose veins, minimally invasive methods are actively used, which have many advantages over other methods:
- safety and effectiveness;
- carrying out manipulations on an outpatient basis without hospitalization and general anesthesia;
- the procedure takes place without cuts or scars;
- quick recovery;
- After the operation, the patient can immediately return to his normal lifestyle.
The following types of minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins are available:
- Sclerotherapy – a special substance is injected using an injection to glue the walls of the pathological vein.The manipulations are carried out under the control of ultrasound devices and are effective in the fight against varicose veins.
- Laser coagulation is an advanced alternative to surgical treatment.The technique is based on the thermal effect of a laser beam on the inner walls of the veins, which leads to closure of the venous vessels with an excellent aesthetic effect;
- Miniphlebectomy – removal of varicose veins and veins through small punctures in the skin using a special scalpel, needle and hook;
- Vein closure with biological glue – gluing the lumen of a vein affected by varicose veins with a special glue.
Please note: Each method has certain indications and contraindications that can be clarified in a 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 particularly 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 following simple recommendations, you can prevent the disease.Keeping your feet beautiful and healthy is easy if you follow a few tips:
- Choose your shoes carefully and give preference to comfortable models without high heels.
- Get rid of extra pounds and monitor your weight.
- Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement.
- move more: walk, swim;
- Avoid prolonged physical activity of your legs and do not lift heavy objects.
- Limit visits to saunas and baths and taking hot baths.
- Wear compression knitwear (for those at high risk);
- perform special gymnastics and massage;
- eat right and balanced;
- Get rid of bad habits.
Find out more about varicose veins, treatment and prevention methods in a consultation with a phlebologist.