Venereal diseases: signs, infection, treatment, diagnosis. Chronic and acute diseases of the veins of the lower extremities

When diseases of the veins of the lower extremities are mentioned, varicose veins are most often implied. However, the list of pathological processes associated with the veins of the legs is much wider. It includes many, even more dangerous, diseases, such as, for example, thrombophlebitis. We will talk about the causes of diseases of the venous system and the most common pathologies in this article.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins is a pathology of the venous walls. With varicose veins, the walls of the veins become thinner and expand due to impaired blood flow. The disease is associated with reduced tone of the venous walls and valve insufficiency. Venous outflow is difficult, the lumen in the veins increases. Valves are subject to deformation, their walls become thicker and shorter. Most often, varicose veins affect the lower extremities.

Causes of the disease:

genetic factor;
excess body weight;
constant overstrain of the legs during a long stay in an upright position;
lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyle;
pregnancy;
hormonal disorders;
bad habits (alcohol, smoking, drugs);
taking hormonal drugs.

The first manifestations of the disease include the following signs:

swelling of the legs, aggravated in the evening;
heaviness in the lower extremities;
bursting sensations in the calves.

When walking and closer to the morning, the symptoms become less pronounced. However, the disease progresses, and gradually there are more symptoms: pain, fever in the lower extremities, convulsions appear. Telangiectasias form on the skin.

A phlebologist examines the patient and prescribes diagnostic measures, including duplex scanning and contrast venography. Therapeutic tactics depends on the general condition of the patient and the stage of the disease. Medications, traditional medicine, physiotherapy exercises, wearing compression underwear and surgical methods are used.

Drug treatment involves the use of drugs that strengthen the vascular walls and thin the blood (phlebotonics, anticoagulants, venotonics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Local preparations (ointments) are also used.

In stages 3 and 4 of the disease, the only effective treatment is surgery. Patients are assigned:

sclerotherapy (a pathologically altered vein is resorbed with the help of a special drug);
laser therapy (switching off the diseased vein from the bloodstream);
classical phlebectomy (removal of a vein under anesthesia).

Phlebitis

This disease is an inflammatory process of the walls of the veins. Usually phlebitis is a consequence of varicose veins of the lower extremities. Due to inflammation, blood flow is disturbed and blood clots occur. Further, phlebitis flows into a more dangerous disease - thrombophlebitis.

Phlebitis can provoke the following factors:

complication of varicose veins;
abscess complications;
chemical burn of the skin;
streptococcus.

The starting point in the development of the disease can also serve as a human factor (unsuccessful sclerotherapy). Symptoms of the disease:

pain syndrome;
skin redness;
temperature rise;
general weakness;
swelling.

In the chronic form of phlebitis, the symptoms are less intense. The disease sometimes subsides, going into remission, then it sharply worsens.

Therapy of phlebitis consists in the complex use of conservative techniques. If the disease is localized only on the superficial veins, hospitalization is not carried out. In all other cases, the patient is subject to hospitalization.

The patient's legs should be at rest and at some elevation. The doctor prescribes drugs that strengthen the walls of the veins and reduce the density of the blood. Also, treatment is aimed at eliminating inflammation. When the exacerbation subsides, the patient begins to wear compression underwear and bandage the legs with an elastic bandage. Prevention of phlebitis consists in the timely treatment of pustular diseases, injuries and inflammatory processes.

Note! Treatment of diseases of the veins of the lower extremities should be comprehensive. It is not enough to simply take medication. One of the directions of therapy is a strict diet. One of the goals of the diet is the fight against excess weight. Also, proper nutrition should help reduce blood cholesterol levels.

Thrombophlebitis

This disease is a complication of varicose veins. Thrombophlebitis is characterized by an inflammatory process on the walls of the veins and the formation of blood clots. It is believed that every fourth person belongs to the risk group with the possibility of getting thrombophlebitis. The most common site of localization of the disease is the lower limbs (from the lower part of the buttocks to the lower part of the lower leg).

Factors that can cause blood clots and blood clots:

excess body weight;
pregnancy;
trauma;
acute respiratory viral infection;
genetic factor;
low physical activity;
diabetes;
overheat.

Thrombophlebitis is usually preceded by the following pathologies:

inflammatory process on the wall of the vein (phlebitis);
excessive blood clotting;
disturbed blood flow.

Symptoms of the disease:

pain syndrome in the area of the veins (gradually the pain becomes more intense and does not stop even at rest);
general malaise;
high body temperature;
skin redness;
compacted areas of the skin;
weakness in the lower extremities;
feeling of coldness in the toes;
limping when walking.

Often the disease proceeds extremely aggressively, accompanied by a rapid rise in temperature and severe pain in the veins. Swelling gradually increases, and the skin in the affected areas turns red. The temperature can rise up to 38 degrees. As a rule, the acute phase of thrombophlebitis lasts for 10-30 days. After that, the disease is transformed into a chronic form.

Diagnosis begins with an examination of the patient. The doctor by palpation of the veins determines the painful areas and the nature of pathological changes on the skin. To confirm the preliminary diagnosis, a blood test for clotting is prescribed. Triplex scanning and radiopaque phlebography are also performed.

Therapeutic measures for thrombophlebitis are divided into 2 groups:

conservative;
operational.

Treatment with conservative methods is carried out on an outpatient basis if the thrombus has not gone beyond the lower leg. If the disease is caused by trauma to the venous wall, anticoagulants or an alcohol compress are used. Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to relieve pain.

In the treatment of thrombophlebitis, the following groups of drugs are used:

phlebotonics (Detralex, Venosmin);
angioprotectors (rutin derivatives);
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Sinmeton, Diclofenac, Meloxicam);
anticoagulants (Warfarin, Sincumar).

Surgical operations are indicated in cases where the disease has spread to deep veins, as well as when there is a risk of complications.

Operative methods for the treatment of thrombophlebitis include:

ligation of pathological vessels;
thrombectomy (removal of a blood clot);
phlebectomy (removal of veins affected by the pathological process).

Thrombosis

This disease develops as a result of a violation of the inner surface of the venous wall of deep veins. Factors that can lead to thrombosis include infection, chemical or mechanical injury, and an allergic reaction.

The risk of thrombosis also increases with high blood clotting and a decrease in blood flow velocity as a result. Another prerequisite for the development of the disease is congestion in the veins of the lower extremities due to low physical activity or prolonged stay on the legs.

Note! Physical inactivity is the main factor leading to thrombosis. There are even such unscientific but common terms as “TV thrombophlebitis” (long sitting in front of the TV) and “economy class syndrome (long flights in an uncomfortable airplane seat)”. When a person is in a sitting position with bent legs for many hours, blood stagnates in the deep veins, which provokes the development of pathology.

The danger of thrombosis lies in the following consequences:

In the lower part of the leg (below the knee), a blood clot is not as dangerous as in the upper part of the limb. The higher the thrombus rises, the wider the vein, and therefore the risk of separation of this blood clot increases.
If a blood clot enters the heart or lungs, it clogs the blood flow in them. Thromboembolism occurs, which leads to severe shortness of breath, cardiac arrest and even death.
A blood clot that enters the arteries of the brain causes a stroke.

Causes of blockage of blood vessels:

increased blood viscosity due to lack of fluid in the body, as well as a metabolic disorder or exposure to a malignant tumor;
stagnation of blood in the legs due to hypodynamia, varicose veins or inflammatory disease;
pathologies of the circulatory system (thrombophlebitis, erythremia);
genetic factor;
infectious diseases (sepsis, allergies);
pneumonia;
excessive body weight;
diabetes.

At the initial stage, the symptoms of the disease are usually mild. However, over time, more and more signs of thrombosis appear, including:

swelling of the lower extremities;
formations in the form of spider veins;
convulsions, especially disturbing at night;
pain syndrome in the thigh, lower leg and foot (pain subsides with the horizontal position of the limb);
venous insufficiency;
elevated temperature.

In the acute stage, thrombosis proceeds rapidly:

venous outflow completely or partially stops;
thighs and lower legs increase in size;
saphenous veins significantly expand;
cyanosis occurs;
the temperature rises to 38 degrees.

If the disease is asymptomatic, the fact that the patient suffers from thrombosis can be guessed by distinct venous collaterals in the lower abdomen, on the lower leg and thigh.

Based on the results of the examination and tourniquet tests with an elastic bandage, the phlebologist determines the patient's condition. Phlebography, duplex scanning, ultrasound examination of veins, rheovasography of the lower extremities are prescribed as diagnostic measures.

The choice of treatment tactics depends on the stage of the disease, the general health of the patient, and the localization of the pathology. The main task is to avoid the spread of thrombosis, as well as to prevent pulmonary embolism (that is, blockage of the arteries of the lungs).

Treatment is carried out only in a hospital. The patient is prescribed strict bed rest and medication, including anticoagulants, thrombolytic and fibrinolytic drugs, as well as antiplatelet agents. The operation is performed in case of a threat to the life of the patient.

Methods of treatment for deep vein thrombosis:

Drug therapy. Taking medication reduces the activity of symptoms and normalizes blood flow. The action of coagulants (Coumadin, Heparin, Warfarin) is aimed at reducing blood density and preventing thrombosis in the vessels and veins of the legs, as well as reducing edema. Thrombolytic agents (Trypsin, Chymotrypsin) eliminate blood clots. Phlebotonics counteract blood stasis in the extremities and improve vascular tone (Detralex, Venosmin). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are aimed at eliminating pain and reducing swelling in the legs (Diclofenac, Indomethacin).
Surgery. The operation is indicated when there is a risk of a blood clot or thrombophlebitis. Techniques such as cava filters, Troyanov-Trendelenburg operation, thrombectomy are used. Surgical intervention is contraindicated at the stage of exacerbation of the disease and in some cardiovascular pathologies.
Means of traditional medicine. Alternative therapy acts only as an auxiliary tool that facilitates the course of the disease. Herbal tinctures and baths for dipping feet based on nettle, horse chestnut, and chamomile are used.

Depending on the patient's health status, the doctor may recommend moderate exercise, including walking and therapeutic exercises. Activities with a high load on the feet, as well as thermal procedures (sauna, bath, hot baths) should be completely excluded from the patient's life.

The formation of trophic ulcers leads to a violation of blood circulation. Stagnation of venous blood provokes the onset of the inflammatory process. The skin undergoes pigmentation, and the subcutaneous tissue becomes thickened. First, eczema develops, then passing into a trophic ulcer.

Symptoms of a trophic ulcer include the following symptoms:

powerful pain syndrome;
convulsions that worsen at night;
swelling of the legs;
severe itching;
chills;
fever in the ulcerated area;
exfoliation of the epidermis;
bluish-looking skin due to translucent vessels;
increased pigmentation of the skin;
excretion of exudate by ulcers;
scab (at advanced stages of the disease).

Diseases and conditions that cause ulcers:

diabetes;
skin pathologies;
hypertonic disease;
atherosclerotic processes in the legs;
chemical burns of the skin;
trauma;
improper blood circulation.

Trophic ulcer therapy includes:

decrease in venous pressure;
wearing compression underwear (the degree of compression is determined by the doctor, but it is usually supposed to use the third compression class);
taking painkillers and antibacterial drugs;
treatment of venous insufficiency, taking antihistamines, antibiotics and phleboprotectors;
surgery (up to skin grafting).

Before deciding on the tactics of treatment, the doctor prescribes an examination of the patient. For diagnostic purposes, ultrasound, general examination and clinical studies are carried out. According to the results of the tests, the doctor may refer to intravenous, laser or infusion therapy. Electromyostimulation is also used.

A trophic ulcer is not a disease whose treatment can be neglected. Advanced stages of the disease lead to the development of erysipelas, microbial eczema, elephantiasis, sepsis, and even death.

Chronic venous insufficiency

The disease is classified into four stages, during which chronic venous insufficiency develops:

At the first stage, the disease is almost asymptomatic. The only symptom is slight swelling of the legs.
The second stage is characterized by the expansion of the veins. However, trophic changes have not yet been observed.
In the third stage, the surface of the skin changes: veins become visible on the surface of the legs. Pronounced pigment spots appear on the skin of the lower extremities.
The fourth stage is associated with the development of trophic changes on the skin of the legs.

Factors leading to chronic venous insufficiency include:

high blood pressure in the veins;
phlebitis;
inflammatory processes.

The disease is treated with conservative methods (medication, therapeutic exercises, slimming underwear), as well as with the help of surgical operations.

Drug treatment involves the use of the following groups of drugs:

phlebotonics (Ginkor Fort, Detralex);
antihistamines (Clemastin);
anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac);
antioxidants (Emoxipin).

To prevent the spread of the infectious process throughout the body, patients are prescribed treatment with antibiotics and antibacterial drugs. Drugs such as Lyoton, heparin ointment, Venobene are aimed at eliminating the pain syndrome.

Surgical treatments may include the following techniques:

Sclerotherapy. This method is the least traumatic and has a noticeable cosmetic effect. The operation is carried out under local anesthesia and consists in the introduction of a special needle-shaped device - a sclerosant - into the vein, through which a therapeutic solution enters the body. After the introduction of the solution, the blood flow through the vein is blocked, and the vein itself gradually dissolves. Thus, it is possible to get rid of the pathological vein.
laser therapy. Also, pathologically dilated veins are removed with a laser. Like the previous method, laser therapy is minimally invasive, does not leave scars on the body and does not require general anesthesia. The method is based on the sealing of a vein using a laser. As a result, the affected vein is turned off from the general blood flow, which is directed to healthy parts of the leg.
Classic phlebectomy. The traditional surgical operation is performed under general anesthesia, it is rather complicated and traumatic. The essence of the operation is to remove the diseased vein from the leg.

Thromboembolism

This disease is caused by impaired blood flow through the veins or arteries due to the formation of clots and excessive blood clotting. The resulting blood clots interfere with the normal functioning of the circulatory system. Blood clots usually occur in the lower extremities.

Symptoms of thromboembolism:

pain syndrome;
swelling;
discoloration of the skin on the legs;
swelling of the veins.

Treatment is carried out with thrombolytic drugs, as well as anticoagulants and antispasmodics. To save the patient from pain, the doctor may prescribe Papaverine, Novocaine or No-shpu. If drug therapy fails, thrombectomy or embolectomy is indicated. One of the dangerous complications of thromboembolism is gangrene. In this case, the leg will have to be amputated.

In no case should you engage in self-diagnosis and treatment of any diseases of the lower extremities. If you find the first suspicions of problems with blood circulation in the legs, you should immediately seek the advice of a doctor.

Sexually transmitted diseases, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are contracted during sexual intercourse. Disease-causing organisms can be transmitted through blood, semen, saliva, and any other body fluids.

Some of these infections can be transmitted not only through sexual contact, but, for example, from mother to child, during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding, or during a blood transfusion (blood transfusion). Sexually transmitted diseases are common in the modern world, so it is extremely important to know the symptoms in order to correctly diagnose. We must not forget about the measures of personal protection, about the prevention of unpleasant health problems.

Since sexually transmitted diseases may be asymptomatic for some time, a person may not always know that he is the source of the infection. In this case, the spread of the disease occurs "accidentally".

Symptoms of some sexually transmitted diseases

Chlamydia

The first 1-3 weeks after infection, chlamydia is completely asymptomatic.

HIV symptoms may not be present. In most cases, a flu-like condition develops after 2-6 weeks, which has no specific symptoms, so the early stages of the disease are often missed.

Early symptoms

Fever;
Sore throat;
Rash;
Weakness.

These symptoms usually go away in 1-4 weeks. During this period, a sick person is contagious, and therefore dangerous to others. More severe and specific symptoms may first appear even 10 years after infection. Therefore, it is very important to visit a doctor and be regularly screened for sexually transmitted diseases.

Secondary Symptoms

As the virus destroys the immune system, the following symptoms appear:

Enlarged lymph nodes;
Weight loss;
Fever;
Cough and shortness of breath.

Late symptoms of HIV

Constant weakness and fatigue;
Torrential night sweats;
Chills and fever for several weeks;
Swollen lymph nodes for 3 months or more;
chronic diarrhea;
persistent headache;
Opportunistic infections (infectious diseases that never develop in people with normally functioning immunity).

Genital herpes

is a highly contagious disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The virus enters the body through microtraumas on the skin and mucous membranes. The vast majority of people do not even know that they are carriers of the virus, because they do not have any manifestations of the disease. In cases where there are symptoms, the first exacerbation is quite difficult. Some people never have flare-ups again; for others, genital herpes recurs all the time.

Symptoms

Small red sores and vesicles in the genital area;
Soreness and itching in the perineum, on the buttocks, on the inner thighs.

The first symptom of genital herpes, soreness and itching, usually appears a few weeks after contact with a carrier of the virus. First, a lot of bubbles appear, which open up and form ulcers.

During the period when there are sores, soreness and burning during urination may be noted. These sensations can persist even when all skin and mucosal defects have healed.

During the incubation period, the person may experience headache, muscle pain, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, especially in the groin.

In some cases, a person remains contagious even after all the sores have healed and the discomfort has passed.

genital warts

Genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections.

Symptoms

Small, flesh-colored or grayish bumps in the genital area;
Some warts merge with each other, resembling cauliflower;
Itching and/or discomfort in the perineum;
Contact bleeding.

However, most often genital warts do not manifest themselves. They can be very small, up to 1 mm, or they can form large conglomerates.

In women, genital warts can occur on the labia, the entrance and walls of the vagina, the cervix, perineum, around the anus. In men - on the penis, scrotum and around the anus.

Hepatitis

A, B and C are contagious viral infections that affect the liver. The severity and time of onset of symptoms depends on the type of hepatitis and the reactivity of the person's immune system.

Symptoms

Fatigue;
Nausea and vomiting;
Pain or discomfort in the abdomen, especially in the right hypochondrium;
Loss of appetite;
Fever;
dark urine;
Pain in muscles and joints;
Skin itching;
Jaundice (yellowish coloration of the skin, mucous membranes and sclera).

Syphilis

The causative agent of syphilis is a microorganism - pale treponema. Initially, it affects only the genital tract, but gradually spreads throughout the body.

- a bacterial infection that affects the genital tract, but over time can spread to all organs and systems, causing a variety of manifestations. Syphilis goes through four stages, each of which has its own characteristics. There is also congenital syphilis, when the fetus becomes infected during pregnancy. Congenital syphilis is a very dangerous condition, so all pregnant women should not miss the tests prescribed by the gynecologist, and if syphilis is detected, it should be treated immediately.

Primary syphilis

Symptoms appear 10-90 days after infection:

A small painless ulcer (chancre) at the site of infection (genitals, rectum). Usually there is one chancre, but in rare cases there may be several;
Enlarged lymph nodes.

Although the symptoms of primary syphilis may disappear without treatment, this does not mean that the person has recovered. The disease simply moves on to the next stage.

Secondary syphilis

Symptoms appear 2-10 weeks after infection:

Red rash the size of a small coin (50 kopecks) all over the body, including the palms and soles;
Fever;
Weakness, lethargy, fatigue.

These manifestations may come and go within a few days, or they may persist for a year or more.

Latent syphilis

The period when there are no symptoms. Complete self-healing may occur, but more often the disease passes into tertiary syphilis.

Tertiary syphilis

If, then pale treponema (the causative agent of syphilis) can spread throughout the body, cause changes in any organs, and even lead to death.

Neurological symptoms

, arachnoiditis and their combinations;
Numbness and weakness in the limbs;
Paralysis;
Deafness;
Blindness;
(dementia).

Cardiovascular symptoms

Formation of aneurysms;
Aortitis and arteritis;

Diagnostics of venereal diseases

In many cases, a blood test will help diagnose a sexually transmitted disease.

If you suspect you have a sexually transmitted disease, or you have had sex with a partner who later develops some strange symptoms, see your doctor immediately. A gynecologist or an infectious disease specialist will prescribe the necessary tests for you, conduct an examination and make a diagnosis if the infection does occur. The following tests are used to detect sexually transmitted infections:

Blood test (signs of inflammation, Wasserman reaction);
(with urethritis);
Smears from the urethra, vagina and cervix (for microscopy and detection of the pathogen);
Smears-imprints from defects in the skin and mucous membranes;
Immunoenzymatic analysis (for the determination of antigens);
Polymerase chain reaction (to identify the genetic material of the pathogen);
Specific tests for specific pathogens (for example, a series of tests for hepatitis).

Screening

Screening is a set of tests and studies that a person undergoes without symptoms of the disease. Screening is carried out not only for the detection of possible sexually transmitted diseases, but also for the early diagnosis of other diseases (for example, screening in

Venous disease is one of the most numerous diseases today affecting the human vascular system at a young age. The most common cases of occurrence in a person aged 20 to 45 years.

Venous pathology is very dangerous and, if not properly treated, can lead to dangerous complications, up to the death of the patient.

Widespread is associated with the wrong way of life, profession. The most commonly diagnosed varicose disease of the legs of all possible diseases of the veins.

The entire venous system is a kind of network of vessels where blood moves from all vital organs to the heart. On the way from the lower extremities, a significant force of gravity is overcome.

The "pumping" function is performed by muscles that contract when a person moves, special valves do not allow blood to return back, located inside the veins - on their shell.

Deviations in the work of these valves can give rise to the development of diseases. These include:

It is better to prepare for possible problems in advance, so it is very important to know how to identify vein disease so that complications are minimal. Each disease has its own manifested symptoms, appropriate treatment.

In order to avoid many unpleasant consequences, when the first symptoms appear, it is imperative to go to the hospital.

Varicose veins are characterized by a significant uneven increase in veins in terms of thickness. The unevenness is associated with the formation of peculiar "nodules" over the venous valves. Millions of people around the world suffer from a disease of the venous system - hemorrhoids.

The veins of the rectum expand, which leads to severe pain manifestations and profuse bleeding.

Men suffer from another venous disease called varicocele. This is an expansion of the vein "cord" of the seed. Waste blood, "returning back", has a tendency to stagnate, which makes it difficult for fresh blood to reach the genitals, enriched with all the nutrients, in particular oxygen.
Violated all important work functions, normal development. The most undesirable outcome of the disease is infertility.

Thickened blood is the main symptom of thrombosis. If in childhood a child breaks his knees, then over time a dense dried crust forms. A thrombus is the same thing, only from the inside - inside the vein.

It is possible that after formation, it “travels” through the circulatory system for several days, and then attaches to the inner wall. Another dangerous disease is venous insufficiency. Represents insufficient functioning of the valves of the vein. It can develop over time or appear from birth.

Diseases of the veins of the lower extremities

One of the most common diagnosed diseases of the veins of the lower extremities, the symptoms of which are quite pronounced, are:

Thrombosis of veins in the legs;
Thrombophlebitis, damaging superficial veins.

Varicose expansion causes valvular insufficiency, eustasia. This is a serious pathological condition of the vessels of the saphenous veins, specifically, large and small.

The development of deviation is typical for people over 20 years old. Experts believe that there is a genetic predisposition to pathology. Symptoms of this disease of the veins of the lower extremities can manifest themselves at different stages of the development of the disease.

This is not only an increase in the diameter of the veins, but also the appearance of edema in various parts of the legs, patients complain of a feeling of "bursting" in the lower leg. Characterized by severe fatigue, night cramps in the calves.

Possible rashes on the skin and, accordingly, severe itching and burning. If the disease is not treated for a long time and goes into a neglected form, then bright pigment spots on the skin can form, as well as trophic ulcers. This is due to the occurrence of petechial hemorrhages and accumulating hemosiderin.

Symptoms of the disease of the veins in the legs - thrombosis - are quite painful. This is a very dangerous disease that poses a danger directly to life.

The reasons for the development can be:

Reception of certain groups of medicines, for example, contraceptives;
infections;
Bed rest for a long time during various diseases;
Diseases associated with oncology (especially tumors in the stomach or lungs);
The period after childbirth.

Signs of the disease are severe swelling of the limb (one or two), a feeling of heaviness, "glossy" skin, through which the venous pattern is clearly visible.

Often there are symptoms such as pain in the leg when bending the foot, pain in different parts of the leg. The disease is especially dangerous because the signs may not be noticeable (not felt), in fact, in half of all those susceptible to this disease, which leads to a neglected state of pathology, medical care is not provided in time.

Symptoms of diseases of the veins in the legs

Most of the world's population is faced with the problem of the occurrence of vein diseases. The main symptoms that go to the hospital, in most cases, are:

puffiness;
Pain in the legs;
Feeling of heaviness in the lower extremities;
Convulsions, especially at night;
A sharp decline in performance.

Changes in the hormonal structure, and an insufficiently mobile lifestyle, and deviations in the cardiovascular system can lead to them.

Treatment of diseases of the veins in the legs

Diseases of the veins of the lower extremities can be treated in various ways, depending on the degree of development and manifestation. The main ones are:

Sclerotherapy is used to remove small nodes or extensions.
Traditional treatment involves the use of special stockings with high elasticity by patients, as well as exercises with the adoption of a position of high legs. This therapy is especially effective in diagnosing varicose veins, as well as if there are chronic vein diseases.
Surgical intervention is required in the absence of the proper effect of the previous 2 methods, the occurrence of various complications in the course of the disease - the appearance of ulcers or severe bleeding.

If you seek help from a doctor on time, then the treatment will pass quickly and with the desired result. Physical exercises, wearing special stockings will help to avoid many unpleasant consequences.

In some cases, you can not do without the use of medications, but this is necessary only with advanced forms of the disease or the development of complications.

You can minimize the risks by taking time for your feet and their health. Regular warming of the legs, alcohol compresses, the use of herbal decoctions, and the performance of a special set of physical exercises help.

Varicose veins- this is a disease of the veins, in which the veins are dilated, enlarged, the passages of the vessels are curved, knots and protrusions are formed, the walls of the vessels are thinned, and blood flow is disturbed.

Diagnosing this problem is not difficult, because the external venous vessels (they are correctly called superficial) are dilated, ornate, visible to the naked eye, tend to increase during physical exertion, a long stay in a "standing" position, and become smaller if you lie down, and not noticeable at all with raised legs. The patient complains of heaviness in the legs, the appearance of edema in the afternoon.

Symptoms

This disease is complicated by the violation of microcirculation and metabolic processes by the following manifestations:

the appearance in the lower part of the lower leg of a hyperpigmented area of the skin layer (dryness, atrophy), a rounded shape, which has the term - dermatitis;
, localized in the lower part of the leg;
trophic ulcer - an extensive lesion, usually rounded.

It may also have concomitant problems: thrombophlebitis, phlebothrombosis, interstitial bleeding due to thinned vein walls, ulcers, erosion, infection connection.

Phlebitis is an inflammatory disease of the veins characterized by an acute, subacute nature, lasting until a thrombus appears, then it passes to the stage of thrombophlebitis or to the stage of phlebosclerosis.

The classification is as follows:

, with previous injuries of the veins (vessel walls). Injury may be due to prolonged installation of needles, finding a catheter, treatment with scleropreparations. The solution to the problem is sclerosis of the vessel.
Periflebitis - may develop due to the transition of the inflammatory process from adjacent areas (suppuration) to the vessel. It can go into the stage of phlebothrombosis.
Panphlebitis is characterized by various etymologies, although, most likely, this is the first degree of thrombophlebitis.
Mondor's syndrome is a problem in which there is a subacute form of disease of the veins of the lateral surface of the chest. In this case, one or more strands from the veins are formed, soreness, burning are felt along them, the skin is unchanged. The duration of the disease is 20-30 days. Subsequently, the symptoms disappear, except for a change in the color of the skin in this area.

Phlebitis of the internal organs:

Chiari - a disease of the hepatic veins, as a result - obliteration, the appearance of portal hypertension;
Metrothrombophlebitis is a disease of the veins of the uterus, usually postpartum.
Pylephlebitis is a type of thrombosis, it is portal vein thrombophlebitis, it can be a complication after cholecystitis or appendicitis, and, as a result, jaundice, liver problems.

Reasons for the development of thrombophlebitis

What can cause such a disease? This list is quite extensive. The development of varicose veins may be due to the level of reactivity of the body, dysfunction of the endocrine system, autoimmune, neurotrophic failures, vascular damage, slow blood flow, venous static, the influence of infections. As a rule, the veins of the legs and veins of the pelvic organs are affected, although there are thrombophlebitis of the veins of the brain, vessels of the hands, and the portal vein.

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Course of the disease

Specialists distinguish acute thrombophlebitis, the term "chronic thrombophlebitis" does not exist. The result of the disease is manifested in venous sclerosis, the appearance of chronic venous insufficiency, called post-thrombophlebitic syndrome. Because of this, there may be a return of varicose veins. The duration of the acute form of the disease is up to three weeks, the subacute form is three to four weeks from the onset of the disease.

Thrombophlebitis of the external (subcutaneous) vessels, usually appears with varicose veins, affecting parts of the limb or completely. There is a pain syndrome of the affected vein, with a diseased area, the skin in this part is hyperemic, an infiltrate is noted along the vein, and a painful, tight cord is felt when examining the fingers. Edema is absent. May be accompanied by fever.

Thrombophlebitis of the deep vessels of the lower leg develops, characterized by pain in the calves, intensifying, with retrograde spread, the appearance of a feeling of fullness. When examining the skin - no changes or with a cyanotic tint, on the second or third day of the disease, an increase in the saphenous veins is visualized. An increasing swelling of the limb develops - unlike thrombophlebitis of the external vessels. Feeling the calf muscles shows a manifestation of sharp pains inside, but the surface itself is a little painful. The temperature of the skin in the adjacent areas is above normal. In general, the condition is accompanied by fever. The appearance of symptoms of vascular disease: during flexion of the foot; pain when pressing on the leg.

Thrombophlebitis of the main vessels of the pelvis and femoral vein is the most severe form of venous disease. In the course of it, 2 degrees are distinguished: the first is compensation (prodromal), the second is decompensation (expression of clinical manifestations). The first degree develops while maintaining blood flow in the legs, if there is a small parietal thrombus.

Symptoms of the problem are mild: the presence of pain, they are aching, dull, appear in the lower back and sacrum, from below and the peritoneum and in the leg from the affected side. The patient's condition is satisfactory. The duration of this degree is up to a month, it may end there. With decompensation, the appearance of pronounced hemodynamic changes in a part of the body is characteristic. The pain increases sharply, localized in the groin, thigh and calf muscle. Pronounced edema spreading to the entire leg, perineal area. The skin changes color, cold, pain in the sole is felt. If the blood flow is disturbed for more than two days, there is a risk of developing venous gangrene. The limb increasing in size should be alerted - 2-3 times.

These problems are typical for people due to sudden movements, instant physical exercises with a load on the shoulder girdle. The acute period lasts about three weeks, then the symptoms subside. The disease is diagnosed by phlebography.

Treatment

Due to the threat of a thrombus and the appearance of thromboembolism of arterial vessels, especially often in the pulmonary artery, hospitalization for 14 days in surgery is mandatory.

Diseases of the vascular system are directly related to the wrong way of life, nutrition, abuse of bad habits. Today, more and more pathologies occur at an early age. Wear and damage to vessels also depend on a number of external factors and the environmental situation around. Among other diseases of the circulatory system, varicose veins are diagnosed more often than others.

The entire blood circulation system is a network of vessels through which blood moves from the internal organs to the heart. A person, being in an upright position for a longer time, does not even imagine what kind of gravity in the lower extremities the blood flow experiences. In this case, the pump function is performed by the muscles, and so that the blood does not return to the cavity of the veins, there are special valves. Violations in their work give impetus to the development of ailments.

Blood moves through the vessels from bottom to top in the direction of the main pump - to the heart. The force of gravity is quite a significant obstacle, and in order for the fluid to overcome this difficult path, the muscle tissue is in tension, and the valves in the cavity of the veins direct the blood in one direction.

A number of factors can disrupt blood flow and lead to a disruption in the movement of fluid tissue. The most common reasons include:

tight clothes and shoes,

the period of bearing a baby during pregnancy,

psychological discomfort,

features of professional activity.

Pregnancy is the most common cause of venous disease in women. During this period, the body is subjected to heavy stress, the hormonal balance changes, the placenta forms an additional circle of blood circulation and the amount of fluid in it increases. All systems operate in an enhanced mode, which undoubtedly affects the condition and functionality of the vessels. It is very important to resort to preventive measures throughout the entire gestation period and, if necessary, start treatment at an early stage, since childbirth and lactation can only exacerbate problems.

Diseases of the veins often affect people whose professional activity is associated with great physical effort or involves a long stay on their feet. Statistical load in the limbs leads to varicose veins, teachers, salespeople, hairdressers, as well as drivers and other employees are susceptible to this disease.

Often, women have circulatory problems because of their desire to look more attractive. Tight but fashionable clothes and shoes have a negative effect on the subcutaneous vessels.

Stressful situations can also increase pressure and resistance, so the psychological factor plays an important role in the development of venous pathologies. Discomfort and emotional stress lead to the release of hormones - cortisol and endorphins. They stimulate increased blood flow and can cause vasospasm.

All diseases of the veins have distinctive characteristics and symptoms of manifestation, the main thing is to notice them in time and seek help from a specialist.

Classification and main symptoms

Any of the venous pathologies is dangerous for the body, since without intervention it leads to a number of complications and can even cause death.

Diseases of the veins are classified according to the type of lesion, they include:

varicose veins of the lower extremities,
varicocele,
haemorrhoids,
venous insufficiency,
trophic ulcers,
thrombophlebitis,
thrombosis,
phlebopathy.

All these disorders have their own characteristics and characteristic symptoms of manifestation. Each of the ailments requires immediate treatment, as it progresses rapidly.

Varicose veins

This pathology is characterized by the expansion and thinning of blood vessels as a result of impaired blood flow. Most often, the disease affects the legs, bluish nodules appear on them and swelling of the veins becomes noticeable, which occurs with dysfunction of the valves in the cavities of the vessels.

The first symptoms of leg vein disease are:

puffiness, which increases in the second half of the day;
feeling of heaviness;
fatigue syndrome;
bursting.

Discomfort disappears after reducing the load and in the morning. Without treatment, the symptoms worsen, soreness, burning sensation and cramps appear.

This is a complication of varicose veins, in which blood clots form in inflamed blood vessels, clogging the vessels and preventing blood flow. As a result, aseptic inflammation develops. It is provoked by an increase in blood viscosity, trauma, gestation period, respiratory diseases, overweight, diabetes mellitus and heredity. The focus is localized in the upper part of the legs behind. The main symptoms of thrombophlebitis include:

pain in the limbs
general malaise,
increase in body temperature,
skin redness,
thickening in the area of thrombus formation.

Gradually, the disease only progresses, the swelling increases, without treatment, the acute phase passes and the disease takes on a chronic form.

Varicocele

This disease affects men and is characterized by the expansion of the vein of the spermatic cord. The spent blood stagnates on the way back and becomes an obstacle to the blood supply to the testicles. Without oxygen, functions are impaired, which leads to the development of infertility.

The ailment is manifested by a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. This is especially noticeable during physical exertion and arousal. With a slight expansion of the vein, only a specialist can detect pathology during an ultrasound examination. Over time, the disease progresses and the enlarged vein can be seen on its own. In the third stage, the testicle deforms, decreases in size and becomes soft.

Phlebopathy

This term was used in the last century and it characterized the fatigue in the legs. Now this concept covers a whole range of disorders that accompanies reduced vein tone.

Patients do not have external signs, there are no symptoms of varicose veins, but the elasticity of the vessels decreases, and the outflow of blood is difficult.

You can notice the problem when you feel unwell and against the background of increased fatigue. There are complaints of swelling, cramps at night, as well as redness and pain in the legs.

Venous insufficiency

This disorder has four stages of development, and each has its own distinctive features. At the beginning of the formation of violations of clinical manifestations, as a rule, there are no or they are mild. Only slight swelling may be observed. Further, as the insufficiency develops, the veins expand, but there are no trophic changes. The third stage is characterized by the protrusion of blood vessels on the surface of the skin, increased pigmentation of the affected areas, trophic ulcers appear. Without the use of drugs, these changes cannot be avoided.

Treatment of pathology

It is very important to have a complete examination. Only a specialist can assess the degree of damage and prescribe effective therapy.

It is dangerous to engage in self-treatment for diseases of the veins, as this will only aggravate the situation. Home recipes are allowed after consultation and doctor's prescriptions as a complex therapy.

Consider several methods for the treatment of diseases of the veins in the legs, which depend on the type of lesion, the condition of the vessels and the individual characteristics of the organism.

Overview of ointments, gels, preparations

Drug treatment involves taking medications that thin the blood, improve vascular conductivity and elasticity. Heparin, as well as venotonic agents such as Aescusan, Venarus and Phlebodia, are very popular for diseases of the veins.

To prevent the formation of blood clots, the anticoagulant "Warfarin" is used. It is only important to observe the consistency and dosage, as it is dangerous with serious side effects.

Topical treatment is of great importance in the treatment of venous diseases. To reduce the load on the limbs, special bandages, stockings and bandages are used.

Ointments have a directed effect on the affected areas. With varicose veins, the drug "Troxevasin" is well suited, and in order to strengthen the walls of the vessels, "Kurantil" is additionally prescribed. With inflammation, ointments like "Indomethacin" show a good effect. In diseases of the veins, remedies based on horse chestnut are recommended.

With thrombophlebitis, if drug treatment does not give a positive result, a cava filter is used. This method involves the installation of a special trap that prevents the movement of a blood clot to the heart or lungs.

In severe cases resort to surgical intervention. With deep varicose veins, the affected areas of the vein are excised, and with thrombophlebitis, the only way out is to remove the clot.

home methods

It involves the use of special exercises that strengthen the walls of blood vessels. Puffiness and heaviness are removed with herbal compresses, and baths are also made to relieve tension and increase the tone of the veins. Alternative methods are used in combination with other types of therapy.

Prevention

It is always easier to prevent a disease than to cure it. Experts strongly recommend following a number of simple but very effective rules. These include the following:

avoid prolonged standing;
avoid poses when one leg is thrown over the other;
do not walk in uncomfortable, tight clothes;
remove high-heeled shoes from your wardrobe;
do self-massage;
do physical education;
balance rest and work;
avoid visiting saunas and baths.

During pregnancy, in order to protect the veins from stress, expectant mothers are recommended to use special compression stockings.

When the first symptoms appear or a feeling of discomfort, it is advisable to immediately contact a phlebologist for advice.