Varicose veins in the legs are a serious pathology that results from a disruption of the venous valves.There is a disturbance in the physiological balance between muscle cells, elastin and collagen fibers of the vessel walls, which leads to dilation of veins and the formation of knots.Most often, the pathology manifests itself in 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 lower limb venous disease
Varicose veins are diseases with gradual development and regular 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 sedentary work, frequent wearing of clothes that are too narrow and tight, high-heeled shoes, bad habits, unbalanced diet;
- hormonal changes and imbalances, for example during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins
There are 6 stages of varicose veins, each characterized by certain symptoms:
- stage 0 – heaviness and pain in the legs, slight swelling, night cramps, but without any external manifestations;
- stage 1 – subtle appearance of spider veins or spider veins;
- stage 2 – enlargement of veins and appearance of lymph nodes, which become particularly visible after prolonged sitting or walking;
- stage 3 – noticeable swelling of the legs is added;
- stage 4 – trophic changes occur in the limbs: abnormal pigmentation of the skin, development of skin inflammation;
- stage 5 – trophic ulcer formation;
- 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 the clinic, it is possible to identify pathology and establish an accurate diagnosis.
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 very informative method that allows you to assess blood flow in the arterial and venous beds, thereby establishing an accurate diagnosis.
Varicose veins are treated by conservative, injection or surgical methods.The first is carried out in the early stages of the disease and aims to reduce the intensity of symptoms and improve well-being.Unfortunately, this method does not allow you 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 garments;
- pharmacotherapy - taking venotonics and anti-inflammatory drugs capable of increasing the tone of the vein walls, improving blood circulation and eliminating 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.Through the use of such treatment methods, it is possible to eliminate the defect, 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;
- carry out manipulations on an outpatient basis without the need for hospitalization or the use of general anesthesia;
- the procedure takes place without incisions or scars;
- rapid recovery;
- After the operation, the patient can immediately return to their 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 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, resulting in the closure of the venous vessels with an excellent aesthetic effect;
- miniphlebectomy – removal of lymph nodes and varicose veins through small punctures in the skin using a special scalpel, needle and hook;
- Closing veins with biological glue - gluing the lumen of a vein affected by varicose veins with special glue.
Please note: each method has certain indications and contraindications, which may be discovered during the consultation.A vascular surgeon will help you choose the most appropriate treatment method after careful study of your medical history and detailed diagnosis.
Varicose vein prevention
Prompt 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 cause of the pathology - by adhering to simple recommendations, you can prevent the disease.Keeping your feet beautiful and healthy is easy if you follow a few tips:
- choose wisely when choosing shoes and give preference to comfortable models without high heels;
- get rid of extra pounds and watch your weight;
- wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement;
- move more: walk, swim;
- avoid prolonged physical activity on your legs and do not lift heavy objects;
- limit visits to saunas and baths, taking hot baths;
- wear compression knitwear (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.