What do you think about before going to the beach: what to take with you, how to protect yourself from burns, or maybe how to bare your legs affected by varicose veins?
Many of my patients complain about this problem not only because it looks ugly, but also because varicose veins cause them pain and discomfort.
As a doctor, I noticed that only at the stage when the veins are swollen and the legs have an unsightly appearance, people go to doctors to ask them what to do or what treatment to take.
Why is this happening?
Because varicose veins begin with mild discomfort and do not cause serious problems. This is how it is insidious. Because of "such a little thing" people do not want to go to the doctor, and the disease, meanwhile, is progressing. The skin gradually darkens, blood vessels swell like ropes and even trophic ulcers appear. Blood clots appear in the affected veins, which subsequently enter other organs and disrupt blood circulation in them. As a result, a lethal outcome is possible.
Have you ever thought that you can die from simple varicose veins? People don't think about this. And it would be worth it.
Through this article, I would like you to understand the seriousness of varicose veins, how to approach the problem, and what you can do in advance to avoid getting into the situation described above.
First, try answering these questions: Do your feet often numb? Is it very unpleasant and takes longer to stretch them? Do your feet often swell and hurt for no apparent reason? Is the skin on your feet covered with an irritating net of blood vessels?
At least one affirmative answer – and you are at risk. If you find any signs of varicose veins, contact a phlebologist immediately.
For those who, for some reason, cannot see a doctor in the near future, but they are afraid of the consequences of varicose veins or already have cramps, burns, pain and heaviness in the legs, I have several recommendations.
- Do gymnastics as often as possible (except for heavy strength training and running).
- Wear compression hosiery. It supports the walls of blood vessels and relieves pressure on them.
- Do not sit or stand in one place for a long time – walk every hour. If you are standing while working, try to sit regularly for a few minutes, preferably with your legs slightly raised. If you are sitting for a long time, then get up and walk for at least a few minutes every hour so that your legs pump blood back to your heart.
- Do not stand near open flames or hot batteries. From this, blood circulation deteriorates.
- Eat less salty foods. Salt in the body interferes with fluid circulation.
- Take a relaxing bath at the beginning of the day, not at the end. But it is best to opt for a shower.
- Do not sleep while sitting. In this position, blood circulation is difficult. Place your legs horizontally to reduce the stress on the vessels.
Of course, these recommendations will help you temporarily. But it is not enough to be limited only to them.