Varicose veins in women

Varicose veins are lesions of superficial veins in the legs, which are characterized by decreased elasticity of blood vessel walls, dilation and deformation of blood vessels, and obstruction of blood flow. Varicose veins are considered one of the most common vascular diseases and are diagnosed several times more frequently in women than in men due to factors such as hormonal characteristics, pregnancy and childbirth. The disease is dangerous because it often begins unnoticed and continues for years, gradually causing numerous complications that are even life-threatening in some cases.

Causes of varicose veins in women

The underlying cause is a ruptured vein valve. Normally, blood circulates through arteries from top to bottom and through veins from bottom to top. The blood flows upward in a jet style and stops at the valve, thereby preventing blood from flowing backward. Therefore, blood can flow freely from one valve to another. But if any one of these functions is not efficient enough, a certain amount of blood will flow back downwards, causing the venous pressure to increase, the veins to dilate, and blood stasis occurs.This process may be caused by the following inducing factors:

• genetic predisposition;
• Congenital weakness of connective tissue;
• being overweight;
• Sedentary lifestyle;
• Pregnant;
• menopause;
• Hormonal imbalances (including those caused by taking oral contraceptives);
• Presence of concomitant chronic diseases (diabetes, renal failure, heart failure);
• Indigestion (constipation);
• Jobs that require sitting or standing for long periods of time without opportunities for breaks;
• Frequently wear uncomfortable, tight high heels;
• taking frequent baths that are too hot;
• Lower limb injuries.

Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, excessive tanning, unbalanced diet and constant stress can indirectly affect the development of varicose veins in the legs in women.

Symptoms of varicose veins in women

When you have varicose veins, the veins enlarge, but there are no immediate visible changes in the legs. The severity of clinical symptoms depends on the stage of the disease.in early stagesIn the initial stages, varicose veins in women are asymptomatic but can be diagnosed through instrumental study methods. As it progresses, the following complaints may arise:

• Heaviness and "swelling" in the legs;
• Excessive fatigue of lower limbs during exercise;
• Calf muscle pain;
• Leg swelling at the end of the work day;
• The veins are significantly dilated and spider veins appear;
• Slight leg cramps at night.

The first signs of varicose veins appear after prolonged standing and before the start of the menstrual cycle. At this stage it is necessary to consult a doctor and start treatment, since in the future the disease will only worsen.in later stagesIn the later stages, varicose veins in women’s legs will show obvious changes:

• Swelling, dilated veins, nodes and lumps in affected blood vessels;
• Severe swelling of the lower limbs that does not subside after rest;
• Pain at the affected area;
• Hyperpigmentation, excessive dryness of the skin on the legs;
• Development of dermatitis, venous eczema.

In later stages, varicose veins can cause serious complications such as thrombophlebitis, thrombosis, and trophic ulcers. Therefore, at the first alarming symptoms, you should contact a phlebologist immediately.

Diagnosis of varicose veins

An examination with a phlebologist begins with a consultation. First, the doctor collects a medical record: Asking the woman about her chief complaint, clarifying when the symptoms first appeared, what preceded the onset of varicose vein symptoms, and factors that affected the intensity of the symptoms. The doctor then looks at the characteristics of lifestyle, professional activities and determines whether close relatives have similar problems.To make a diagnosis, an ultrasound scan of the veins is needed. Modern vein centers use modern specialist equipment so disease can be identified in the early stages of its development (when there may be no obvious symptoms). Ultrasonography can determine the presence of varicose veins, their location, and the severity of pathological changes. Based on the results of the ultrasound scan, a final diagnosis is made and an individualized treatment strategy is developed. In modern phlebology, priority is given to non-surgical, minimally invasive methods: sclerotherapy, laser technology.

Prevent varicose veins

The purpose of preventing varicose veins is to prevent the disease and its possible complications. As with all diseases, varicose veins are much easier to prevent than to treat afterwards. First, it is important for women at risk to implement preventive measures.One of the most effective ways to prevent varicose veins is to wear compression garments - stockings, knee socks, tights. The therapeutic effect of the medical knitted fabric is based on the generation of a certain pressure on different parts of the leg: highest at the ankle, gradually decreasing towards the knee and mid-thigh. This stimulates the flow of venous blood from the legs to the heart, preventing blood stagnation and the development of varicose veins.To prevent varicose veins, all women should:

• Eliminate or limit static loads on the legs;
• Sports: jogging, walking, Nordic walking, swimming, aerobics;
• Perform a contrast shower to increase vascular tone: the temperature difference between cold and hot water should be 1 degree at the beginning of the session;
• Massage the legs to promote blood circulation: gently press and stroke the lower limbs from top to bottom, which can be done independently.
• Normalize your diet: An effective way to prevent varicose veins and its complications is to include fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, dried fruits, legumes, whole grains) in your daily menu and avoid fast food, greasy, salty foods;
• control weight and hormone levels;
• Say no to bad habits;
• Choose comfortable, appropriately sized shoes and clothing;
• If necessary, wear orthopedic shoes or insoles: the correct position of the foot helps to distribute the load correctly and improves blood circulation.

It is also important to consult your doctor immediately if you feel any discomfort. A phlebologist will perform an examination, make an accurate diagnosis, help you choose the right type of compression stockings, and develop a personal plan to treat and prevent the disease.