Varicose veins

venous aneurysmIs a pathological condition characterized by structural changes in the venous system, resulting in an increase in the diameter of the superficial vein lumen and destruction of the valvular system, manifested by valvular failure, or valve failure. The veins are not completely closed.Normally, blood flows through the veins from bottom to top against gravity, all thanks to the work of the vein valves. Primary (due to changes in the valve itself) or secondary (due to venous dilatation) valve failure occurs under the influence of a variety of causes; this condition is characterized by incomplete closure of the venous valves and reverse flow of blood. Reverse blood flow will aggravate the changes in the vein walls and cause blood stagnation in the lower limbs, resulting in swelling of the lower limbs and a feeling of heaviness in the legs.In addition to stagnation of blood in the lower limbs, the above process leads to disruption of the linear flow of blood from top to bottom through the veins, the development of regurgitation (reverse blood flow) and turbulence of blood in the lower limb region. expansion. Changes in blood flow characteristics are the main cause of thrombosis.

Possible causes of varicose veins in the lower limbs

1. lack of physical activity- Main cause of varicose veins. A sedentary lifestyle and long periods of sitting can cause venous valves to be overloaded over time. During physical activity (walking, running, swimming), the constant movement of the thigh and calf muscles helps to "drain" blood from the venous system of the lower limbs. Remaining seated for long periods of time causes increased stress on the venous valves. Over time, the venous valves are unable to withstand the load and may stop performing their full function.
2. obesityshould be considered the second most important reason. Heavy weight also increases the load on the venous valve system of the lower limbs, thereby disrupting its normal function.
3. Pregnantis the third most common reason. Hormonal changes, weight gain, and fetal compression of the pelvic veins are sufficient causes of venous valve dysfunction. However, up to 50% of changes in the vein wall detected during pregnancy are functional in nature and resolve spontaneously within the first year of life.
4. smokes– The fourth most common cause of varicose veins. Changes in the vein wall may be related to the adverse effects of the components of the smoking mixture on the tone of the vein wall.
5. genetics– Another possible reason for the development of varicose veins. It is generally believed that heredity plays a leading role in the occurrence of varicose veins, however, the gene responsible for the occurrence of varicose veins has not yet been discovered; it is generally believed that genes responsible for structural changes in connective tissue are the main cause of varicose veins. However, the influence of genetics can be greatly exaggerated, and lifestyle changes, weight normalization, and smoking cessation will help avoid varicose veins, even in patients with an adverse genetic history.

signs of varicose veins

• Presence of dilated saphenous veinThe nonlinear course of veins is the most objective, but it is not the only manifestation of varicose veins. Often, veins may not be visible even if they are dilated several times, especially if the subcutaneous layer is evident.
• Lower limb edemaEnd-of-day swelling, especially asymmetrical swelling, is the earliest and most common symptom of varicose veins.
• You should also consider the presence of varicose veinsFeeling of heaviness in legsLeg cramps at night and in the evening.
• Spider veins and vein patternsIntradermal veins, although more of an aesthetic issue, may also indicate changes in the saphenous vein.
• Persistent redness and thickening of the skin, lipodermatosclerosis, trophic ulcers of the feet and legs indicate a decompensatory process of varicose veins.

Diagnosis of varicose veins

The diagnosis of varicose veins of the lower limbs can only be made based on ultrasound diagnostic data.During an ultrasound scan of the veins of the lower extremities, doctors examine in detail the characteristics of deep and superficial veins from the groin to the ankles, measure vein diameters, analyze venous blood flow characteristics, and detect the presence of reflux. Based on the data obtained, doctors draw conclusions.

Prevent varicose veins

Ways to prevent varicose veins are proper exercise regimen, weight normalization and smoking cessation.If the first signs of varicose veins appear, intravenous injections and the wearing of compression stockings will help slow the progression of the disease.Doctors should choose compression stockings based on the severity of varicose veins and the patient's anthropometric data.

Treatment of varicose veins

The treatment of varicose veins is entirely surgical.Currently, many different methods of surgical treatment have been developed - from open techniques - combined phlebectomy to minimally invasive methods - laser or radiofrequency venous coagulation, mechanochemical methods.

• Varicose veins can be removed using phlebectomy, a technique in which the varicose veins are removed from the subcutaneous tissue through a separate puncture and bandaged.
• Small varicose veins can be removed with sclerotherapy - the introduction of a special gel-like substance called sclerosing agent into the vein space.
• Spider veins and intradermal veins can be removed using sclerotherapy.

However, even after complete treatment, there is still a 10-15% risk of recurrence of varicose veins in the lower limbs. Adequate physical activity, sports (running, walking, cycling, swimming), normalizing weight and giving up bad habits will help reduce the likelihood of recurrence after surgical treatment. Regular use of IVs and wearing correctly chosen compression stockings will help reduce the rate of transmission.The main thing is not to delay seeing a doctor!