Varicose veins are a pathological process characterized by the expansion of the vessels carrying blood to the heart, their deformation, as well as the development of valve insufficiency with subsequent dysfunction. Veins protruding to the surface of the skin, their tuberosity, the appearance of trophic ulcers are a clear sign of the disease.
But the main danger of varicose veins is stagnation of blood and the development of thrombophlebitis, that is, disturbances in the process of blood circulation. For the comprehensive treatment of the disease, a set of measures is used, of which drug therapy and surgery are the most in demand and effective. In addition, ointments and gels for varicose veins are very often used as an auxiliary treatment, and we will talk about this.
Purpose and types of ointments for varicose veins
First of all, I would like to note that ointments and gels are used at all stages of the development of the disease and, depending on the period of application, are intended to provide a different effect:
- In the initial stages of varicose veins, gels and ointments help to slow the progression of the pathological process, preventing deformation of blood vessels and thinning of vascular walls.
- In the later stages, the goal is also to prevent the disease from progressing. However, in addition, topicals help improve blood circulation, prevent severe congestion, and also aim to fight symptoms including pain, swelling, cramps, changes in skin pigmentation, and more. again.
- In addition, the use of ointments and gels is often prescribed by doctors after surgical treatment of varicose veins. In this case, it is possible to achieve an acceleration of the rehabilitation period, healing not only superficial tissues, but also internal structures. In addition, depending on the properties of the drug, some gels and ointments relieve possible swelling, reduce inflammation and stop other unpleasant effects caused by certain types of surgery.
Among ointments and gels there are drugs that are divided into several groups. The choice of drug should be based on clinical signs, which may be the following:
- Increased leg fatigue, painful sensations, feeling of tightness;
- Swollen veins (this symptom accompanies almost all stages of varicose veins, the severity of the symptom is significant);
- Puffiness, their intensity;
- Convulsions, usually at night;
- Change in skin pigmentation, the skin may acquire a bluish tint.
It is also important to understand that the use of ointments or gels can not cure varicose veins, but these funds can really reduce the intensity of individual symptoms, somewhat improve the condition of blood vesselsand prevent the development of pathology.
In addition, before using any of the drugs described below, you should consult a phlebologist.
Phlebotonic
Drugs of this group are the basis of medical treatment of varicose veins, they are prescribed both in the form of tablets and in the form of ointments. These drugs are designed to improve blood circulation, which prevents stagnant processes. They increase the outflow of lymph and vascular tone, to some extent reduce the intensity of edema, and also eliminate the feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs.
Anticoagulants
Their main property is an anticoagulant, which is very important in certain stages of varicose veins, as well as in cases when the pathology takes place against the background of an increase in the concentration of platelets in the blood. Taking into account the fact that the blood becomes less viscous, the process of its circulation through the vascular bed is facilitated, respectively, the process of blood circulation is normalized, and stagnant processes are eliminated. Also, anticoagulants prevent blood clots.
Taking into account the properties described, the drugs in this group help reduce edema in the legs, eliminate pain by relieving congestion and combat the feeling of constriction and fatigue. In addition, anticoagulants prevent the development of complications such as thrombophlebitis or the formation of trophic ulcers.
Anti-inflammatory
A phlebologist, based on the obtained diagnostic data, can prescribe local anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of ointments or gels to a patient with varicose veins.
A striking example is that of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which effectively eliminate painful sensations and have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
Ointments based on natural ingredients
These medicines are prescribed mainly for the initial stages of varicose veins, are used to treat pregnant women, or they replace the medicines described above in order to take a break from treatment.
The above is due to the fact that products based on natural, often vegetable, components act more sparingly. In addition, they can be used continuously, unlike groups of drugs that are used in a course, after which it is important to take a break.
The difference between ointments and gels
Essentially, drugstore-bought ointments and medicated gels are similar drugs. They are applied in the same way if they are drugs of the same group, have the same therapeutic effect, moreover, they even contain the same chemical components.
As for the differences, they are rare:
- Ointments are made from fats, both vegetable and animal. It is also important to understand that the active ingredients in ointments do not completely dissolve, retaining their original chemical structure. Due to these characteristics, the ointment should be more carefully rubbed into the skin and even after that it is necessary to wait 5-15 minutes until it is completely absorbed, otherwise the therapeutic effect will be incomplete. ;
- A distinctive feature of gels is the fact that they are water-based, and the medicinal components of their composition are completely dissolved. Thanks to these factors, the gel is absorbed much faster.
As mentioned earlier, any medication, including ointments and gels for varicose veins for external use, should be prescribed by the attending physician.