Varicose veins are a dangerous vascular disease, which is characterized by an increase in the diameter of the veins and disruption of the valvular apparatus of the veins.This disease occurs in all age categories and does not depend on the gender of the person.The prevalence of the pathology is so great that medical research data indicate the presence of signs of varicose veins in at least every third person from the total population of the earth.
Most often, varicose veins are localized on the lower extremities.This is due to the way pressure is distributed in the circulatory system and the fact that the legs are exposed to maximum stress every day.The disease manifests itself as a feeling of fatigue in the legs, night cramps, swelling, pain and skin itching, often localized along the course of varicose veins.
The danger of varicose veins is that most people do not pay due attention to its symptoms until the disease reaches an advanced stage.In turn, the final stages of varicose veins, as well as their complications, can pose a serious health hazard.
A large number of different therapeutic methods are used in the fight against varicose veins.To prevent the development of the disease and its progression, specialists quite often prescribe external agents - cream, ointment, gel for veins.We will tell you in our article what active ingredients they contain, how they act and help cope with the disease, and whether there is a best cream or gel for the treatment of varicose veins of the legs.
Ointments and gels for varicose veins of the lower extremities
Suppress pain, stop the inflammatory process, normalize blood circulation, restore the elasticity of the venous walls, eliminate swelling and itching of the skin - this is the goal of conservative treatment for varicose veins.Ointments and tablets, physiotherapy and therapeutic exercises, compression hosiery and orthopedic products - and this is not all that the attending physician can prescribe to the patient to achieve this goal.But, as medical practice shows, one of the most popular and prescribed remedies is for topical use.
Which pharmacological form should I use?Which is better?First of all, it is worth noting that all these products have different consistencies.Ointments are made on the basis of fats of plant and animal origin.This is due to their long absorption.In addition, when using it, greasy stains remain on clothes and linens, which can be a significant drawback.For example, a gel for the treatment of varicose veins of the legs already has a lighter structure, which allows it to be absorbed faster when evenly distributed over the skin.
If we are talking about the transition of a pathological process to an advanced stage and the development of trophic disorders, up to trophic ulcers, the use of ointments is more effective than the use of various creams.The lipophilic base of the ointment allows it to penetrate as deeply as possible and act on the affected areas of the skin with the greatest efficiency.
It is believed that the gel is most effective due to its ability to penetrate deeply into the skin.The pharmaceutical industry divides gels for the treatment of varicose veins into groups, depending on the specifics of the active ingredient and the entire breadth of the spectrum of action on the veins of the legs.
Direct anticoagulants
This drug for the treatment of varicose veins and its complications, such as, for example, thrombosis of superficial veins, inhibits the activity of thrombin and other blood clotting factors, has a moderate anti-inflammatory effect and anti-edematous effect.It has a quick effect after its use.Prescribed for speedy rehabilitation and for prevention purposes at the first manifestations of varicose veins - varicose veins or stars, including pregnant women.
Phlebotonics (venotonics)
The physical properties that this gel has are to combat varicose veins by increasing venous blood flow in the lower extremities, improving blood microcirculation and lymphatic drainage.This product has a good anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.Contains plant and synthetic components, and may also have a mixed composition.
As a rule, the most popular phlebotonics, regardless of pharmacological form, are produced with horse chestnut.
They are effective for the treatment of varicose veins in its initial stages, and as a means of prevention.
Corticosteroids
The corticosteroid drug against varicose veins on the legs contains hormones, so its use must be agreed upon with a specialist.It improves the rheological properties of blood, reduces viscosity, has a vasoconstrictor effect, and also has powerful anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.Effective for varicose eczema and ulcers;
The use of steroids for external use should occur exclusively on the recommendation of a doctor and under his strict supervision.Remember that you should not exceed the prescribed time of use, as this can lead to serious consequences.
Non-steroidal
Non-specific remedy for varicose veins on the legs.It helps get rid of pain and prevents the development of the inflammatory process.
Regenerating
This gel is prescribed if there is a violation of the integrity of the skin on the lower extremities.They are based on natural ingredients: beekeeping products and herbal mixtures of wormwood, chamomile, etc.
Antibacterial
In case of infection of the skin and purulent processes on its surface, specialists prescribe antibacterial agents for the treatment of varicose veins on the legs.They are not suitable for long-term use, as the natural protective function of bacterial immunity may be weakened.
Antiseptic
Antiseptic compounds, which are included in the drug for varicose veins on the legs, dry the affected areas of the skin and soothe it.Chamomile, leech extract, etc. have such properties. Menthol can be used.On its basis, a cooling gel for varicose veins is created.
Angioprotectors
Ointment and gel with angioprotective properties are used to treat varicose veins.The mechanism of their action is to improve blood circulation, relieve spasms and reduce the permeability of the vascular wall.
Sorptive
These products have an adsorbent, dermatoprotective and antimicrobial effect.Promotes cleansing and regeneration of tissues in case of trophic disorders.They contain sodium-calcium salt of alginic acid and other substances.
How to determine the best medicine for varicose veins on the legs?Only a doctor can choose the most effective ones in each individual situation, taking into account the individual characteristics of each patient.He will select an adequate regimen for the treatment of varicose veins even during pregnancy.