Varicose veins of the legs are a serious pathology that occurs as a result of a violation of the venous valves.There is a violation of the physiological balance between muscle cells, elastin and collagen fibers of the vessel walls, as a result of which the veins expand and nodes form.Most often, the pathology manifests itself in the legs.Without timely treatment, the veins are deformed, trophic ulcers develop and blood clots form, which can cause serious complications and even cause death.
What causes venous disease of the lower extremities
Varicose veins are diseases with gradual development and stable progression, the causes of which are most often:
- heredity associated with a genetic defect;
- obesity and overweight, which increase the load on the vascular system;
- lifestyle and field of activity: prolonged physical activity, standing or, conversely, sedentary work, frequent wearing of too tight and tight clothes, high-heeled shoes, bad habits, unbalanced diet;
- changes and imbalances in 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 cobwebs or cobwebs;
- stage 2 - expansion of the 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 limbs: impaired skin pigmentation, development of skin inflammation;
- stage 5 – formation of trophic ulcers;
- 6 stage - the appearance of non-healing trophic ulcers.
The earliest stages of varicose veins are difficult to diagnose because of symptoms similar to other diseases.But thanks to modern diagnostic methods used in clinics, it is possible to identify the pathology and make an accurate diagnosis.
Methods of diagnosis and treatment of 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 the blood flow in the arterial and venous beds, making an accurate diagnosis.
Varicose veins are treated with conservative, injectable 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:
- physical therapy;
- compression therapy - wearing elastic bandages and special compression garments;
- pharmacotherapy - taking venotonic 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 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 to eliminate blood reflux and normalize blood flow.
For the treatment of varicose veins, minimally invasive methods are actively used, which have many advantages compared to other methods:
- safety and effectiveness;
- performing manipulations in outpatient settings without the need for hospitalization and the use of general anesthesia;
- the procedure takes place without incisions and 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 using an injection to glue the walls of the pathological vein.The manipulations are performed 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 inner walls of the veins, which leads to the closure of the venous vessels with an excellent aesthetic effect;
- miniphlebectomy - removal of enlarged nodes and veins through small incisions in the skin using a special scalpel, needle and hook;
- Closure of veins with biological glue - gluing the lumen of the vein affected by varicose veins with a special glue.
Please note: each method has certain indications and contraindications, which you can find 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 - by adhering to simple recommendations, you can prevent the disease.It's easy to keep your feet beautiful and healthy 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 exertion on your legs and do not lift heavy objects;
- limiting visits to saunas and baths, taking hot baths;
- wear compression hosiery (for people at high risk);
- perform special gymnastics and massage;
- eat properly and balanced;
- get rid of bad habits.
Learn more about varicose veins, methods of treatment and prevention during a consultation with a phlebologist.