Varicose veins are a lesion of the superficial veins of the legs, characterized by decreased elasticity of the vascular wall, dilation and deformation of blood vessels and compromised blood flow. Varicose veins are considered one of the most common vascular diseases, and varicose veins in women are diagnosed several times more often than in men, due to hormonal characteristics, pregnancy and childbirth. The disease is dangerous because it usually starts unnoticed, lasts for years, gradually causing numerous complications and, in some cases, life-threatening conditions.
Causes of varicose veins in women
The root cause is rupture of the venous valves. Normally, blood circulates through arteries from top to bottom and through veins from bottom to top. The blood rises in jets, remaining in the locations of the valves, which, in turn, impede reverse blood flow. Thus, blood moves freely from one valve to another. But if any of them do not work effectively enough, a certain amount of blood returns downwards - as a result, venous pressure increases, the vein expands and blood stasis forms.
The cause of this process may be the following provoking factors:
- hereditary predisposition;
- congenital weakness of connective tissue;
- excess body weight;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- pregnancy;
- menopause;
- hormonal imbalance (including those caused by the use of oral contraceptives);
- the presence of concomitant chronic pathologies (diabetes mellitus, renal, heart failure);
- indigestion (constipation);
- work that requires sitting or standing for a long time, without opportunity to rest;
- frequent use of tight and uncomfortable high-heeled shoes;
- take very hot baths regularly;
- lower limb injuries.
Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, excessive tanning, unbalanced diet and frequent stress can indirectly affect the development of varicose veins in the legs in women.
Signs of varicose veins in women
With varicose veins, the veins increase in size, but visible changes in the legs do not appear immediately. The severity of clinical symptoms depends on the stage of the disease.
In the early stages
At the initial stage, varicose veins in women are asymptomatic, but they can be diagnosed using instrumental research methods. As you progress, the following complaints may arise:
- heaviness, "swelling" in the legs;
- excessive fatigue of the lower extremities during movement;
- pain in the calf muscles;
- swelling of the legs at the end of the working day;
- visible dilation of the veins, appearance of spider veins;
- slight leg cramps at night.
The first signs of varicose veins appear after standing for a long time, before the start of the menstrual cycle. Already at this stage it is necessary to consult a doctor and start treatment, as in the future the disease will only progress.
In later stages
In later stages, varicose veins on women's legs show visible changes:
- swelling, dilation of the veins, appearance of nodules and swelling along the affected vessel;
- severe swelling of the lower extremities that does not disappear after rest;
- pain at the site of the injury;
- hyperpigmentation, excessive dryness of the skin on the legs;
- development of dermatitis, venous eczema.
In the later stages, varicose veins can provoke the development of serious complications such as thrombophlebitis, thrombosis and trophic ulcers. Therefore, when the first alarming symptoms appear, you should immediately contact a phlebologist.
Diagnosis of varicose veins
Examination by a phlebologist begins with a consultation. First, the doctor takes an anamnesis: he questions the woman about her complaints, clarifies when the first symptoms appeared, what preceded the appearance of signs of varicose veins and which factors influence the intensity of the symptoms. Then the doctor finds out the features of the lifestyle, professional activity, and also clarifies whether close relatives have had similar problems.
To make the diagnosis, an ultrasound scan of the veins is performed. The modern phlebological center uses modern specialized class equipment, thanks to which it is possible to identify the disease in the early stages of development, when obvious symptoms may be absent. Ultrasound examination determines the presence of varicose veins, their location and the severity of pathological changes. Based on the results of ultrasound, a final diagnosis is made and individual treatment tactics are developed. In modern phlebology, priority is given to non-surgical and minimally invasive methods: sclerotherapy, laser technologies.
Varicose vein prevention
Prevention of varicose veins aims to prevent the disease and its possible complications. Like all pathologies, varicose veins are much easier to prevent than to treat later. Firstly, implementing preventive measures is important for women who are at risk of developing the disease.
One of the most effective methods for preventing varicose veins is the use of compression clothing - stockings, knee socks, tights. The therapeutic effect of medical mesh is based on creating a certain pressure in different parts of the legs: the highest at ankle level with a gradual decrease towards the knee and mid-thigh. Thanks to this, the flow of venous blood from the legs to the heart is stimulated, which prevents blood stagnation and the development of varicose veins.
To prevent varicose veins, all women should:
- eliminate or limit static loads on the legs;
- exercise: light running, walking, Nordic walking, swimming, cardiovascular exercise;
- take a contrast shower to increase vascular tone: sessions should begin with a temperature difference of 1 degree between cold and hot water;
- massaging the legs to stimulate blood circulation: the procedure can be carried out independently, stroking the lower limb from top to bottom with light pressure;
- normalize your diet: effective prevention of varicose veins and their complications is the inclusion of foods rich in fiber (vegetables, fruits, dried fruits, legumes, whole grains) in the daily menu, as well as avoiding fast food, fatty and salty foods;
- control body weight and hormonal levels;
- refuse bad habits;
- choose comfortable, appropriately sized shoes and clothing;
- if necessary, wear orthopedic shoes or insoles: the correct position of the feet contributes to the correct distribution of the load and improves blood circulation.
It is also extremely important to consult a doctor immediately if you experience any discomfort. A phlebologist will perform an examination, make an accurate diagnosis, help you choose the right type of compression stockings and develop an individual plan for treating and preventing the disease.