What causes varicose veins in the legs in women. Is varicose veins dangerous? What threatens varicose veins

Varicose veins are a pathological deformation of the venous vessels, as a result of which the tone of the vein walls is lost.

For a good blood supply to the tissues, it is required that the blood not only enter under a certain pressure, but also return back to the main vessels.

The strong and elastic walls of the veins provide good pressure for the flow that goes to the heart. Varicose veins almost always develop in the lower half of the body. For a uniform and uninterrupted movement of blood from the bottom up, from the legs to the heart, you need a good pressure.

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If the venous vessels do not cope with their task, decompensated venous insufficiency occurs. This is a violation in which the blood supply is significantly reduced compared to the norm, so much so that the body cannot compensate for this damage with its own resources and needs medical attention.

Blood delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells of bone, muscle, nerve, fat and other soft tissues. When varicose veins appear, the following processes occur sequentially:

normal gas exchange in cells is disturbed;
the tissue experiences oxygen starvation and a lack of nutrients;
blood stagnates in the vessels;
the walls of the vessels sag under the pressure of venous blood, varicose nodes appear;
the ability of tissues to regenerate decreases, skin pigmentation changes;
trophic ulcers appear, which heal extremely long, and at a later stage do not heal at all;
tissues deprived of proper nutrition begin to die, necrosis develops;
decay products enter the bloodstream, this causes an inflammatory process;
worst prognosis: gangrene sets in, and to save the patient's life, doctors amputate the feet.

Each cell of the body needs a full supply of oxygen and nutrients and the removal of toxins, without which it dies. All internal organs, including the pelvic organs, are penetrated by a system of blood vessels for the inflow and outflow of blood.

The most commonly affected by varicose veins are:

legs: feet, lower legs, to a lesser extent thighs;
testicles in men;
uterus and ovaries in women.

Varicose veins of the reproductive organs in men can be seen with the naked eye. Women learn about their disease by delaying the cycle, pain in the lower back and lower abdomen.

Treatment of varicose veins is a must. Decompensated venous insufficiency does not go away by itself and is not treated by traditional medicine methods. Qualified medical care can reduce the damage caused to the body.

The phlebologist is engaged in the treatment of varicose veins.

Dopplerography shows pathological changes caused by varicose veins:

blood stasis;
stenosis of the lumen of the vein;
blood clots, blockage of the vessel;
areas with necrotic changes;
insufficiency of venous valves;
movement of blood in a direction opposite to normal (reflux);
aneurysm, subsidence and protrusion of the vein wall;
thrombophlebitis, inflammation of the wall caused by the formation of a blood clot.

Dopplerography is performed to diagnose and determine the degree of varicose veins. How does varicose veins develop in stages, and what are the consequences at each stage?

stages

There is no single and officially accepted classification of varicose veins by stages in medicine. The severity of disorders, the presence of concomitant diseases (thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, trophic ulcers), as well as the patient's ability to work are assessed.

With severe varicose veins, a person cannot cope with work duties even when he is provided with medical support.

Independently, the patient's condition with varicose veins can only worsen, not improve. You can divide the development of varicose veins into 4 stages:

First stage	At first, the disease proceeds without symptoms. To identify varicose veins at an early stage is possible only with the help of dopplerography. Visually, the deformation of the vessels is not yet noticeable, but the tone of the deep veins is already reduced. Statistical surveys have revealed that 89% of women and 66% of men from the entire population have varicose veins of the lower extremities. Approximately 50% of those suffering from varicose veins have the first stage. At this stage, patients complain of heaviness and fatigue in the legs after exercise, fatigue of the legs.
Second stage	The next stage of varicose veins is accompanied by slight swelling in the area of the ankle joint, foot, especially the toes. Visually, the veins are still not dilated, but swelling of the tissues indicates venous insufficiency. Victims experience a violation of skin sensitivity, heaviness in the legs, slight cramps. Sensations such as tingling, numbness of the toes, numbness are associated with oxygen starvation of the nerve endings. It is the nervous tissue that reacts most quickly to adverse changes. In the future, suffering nerve cells will cause severe pain, signal a lack of oxygen and nutrients. The formation of blood clots is closely related to the chemical composition of the blood in each individual patient. Already at this stage of the disease, vein thrombosis, most often an embolism, is possible. Small thrombi are not firmly attached to the walls, they arise in the area of blood stagnation, separate and travel through the vessels until they dissolve on their own. Already from the 2nd stage of varicose veins, the likelihood of subcutaneous hemorrhage increases. The fragility of the vessels leads to their rupture from a slight impact or compression. Patients pay attention to hematomas and bruises (bruises) that occur on the feet, less often on the shins. In women, varicose veins in most cases occur during pregnancy and after childbirth and progress extremely quickly to stages 2-3. At stage 2, a person can cope with work, even in a standing position.
Third stage	The third stage is characterized by severe swelling of the legs, cramps and pain. Patients quickly get tired from walking, standing, physical activity. Edema extends not only to the foot, but already to the lower leg. Decompensated venous insufficiency at the 3rd stage of varicose veins is clearly detected visually. The superficial veins are protruding, the course of the vein can be traced under the skin, there is a typical tortuous structure. The weakened walls of the vessels sag under the pressure of blood, which leads to bends and deviations from the main course of movement. The patient suffers from vascular pain, sensory disturbances. The skin on the legs acquires a bluish tint, age spots appear in the lower part of the lower leg. Since tissues gradually die from oxygen starvation, foci of the inflammatory process, trophic ulcers, are formed. These are injuries that affect the deep layers of tissues, and on the skin appear as wounds. Trophic ulcers heal extremely slowly, the more severe the varicose veins, the longer the tissue regeneration takes. At the stage of ulceration, the patient experiences pain of varying intensity. Many people with grade 2 varicose veins can no longer endure a full 8-hour work day, they need rest or medication in order to cope with professional tasks.
Fourth stage	At the last stage of varicose veins, swelling, cramps and pain do not allow the patient to move independently and attend work. Trophic ulcers capture a large area of the foot and lower leg. The inflammatory process is difficult and with complications, weakened local immunity cannot cope with the infection. Suppuration, necrosis and the spread of infection through the bloodstream pose a danger to human life. If the victim asked for help too late, amputation becomes the only adequate measure. Patients with diabetes mellitus most often reach the terminal stage of venous insufficiency. An increased risk of varicose veins exists in all people with a hereditary predisposition, but the disease begins to develop only with additional factors: long stay in a standing position, work on your feet; sedentary lifestyle, sedentary work; increased load on the circulatory system, pregnancy, overweight; diseases of the endocrine system, diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, toxic goiter and others; hormonal changes, menopause, postpartum recovery.

Treatment of varicose veins is possible at any stage of the disease. But the sooner the patient undergoes an examination and finds out the causes of his malaise, the easier it will be to achieve improvement.

At stages 2-4 of varicose veins, a complete recovery is impossible, you can only achieve a stable satisfactory condition, reduce pain and heaviness in the legs.

Forecasts

Many patients worry that their legs have become less attractive due to varicose veins. There were "spider veins", symptoms of telangiectasia.

Dilated capillaries differ in color from healthy skin, most often they look like red or blue small streaks just under the surface of the skin.

Cosmetic defects are the smallest problem that should worry the patient.

Following telangiectasia come:

thrombophlebitis and thromboembolism - the formation of clots of clotted blood in the vessels;
pain from irritation of nerve endings;
puffiness;
violation of sensitivity;
eczema and dermatitis caused by venous insufficiency;
changes in skin pigmentation due to permanent wounds that take a long time to heal;
trophic ulcers, fistulas;
cyanosis, blue discoloration of the fingertips, then the entire foot;
necrosis, soft tissue death.

Varicose veins need to be treated, not eliminated "spider veins". As the disease progresses, it is not just beauty that is at stake, but the life of the patient.

An important point: varicose veins affect not only the legs, but also the pelvic organs. This results in:

to hemorrhoids;
to varicocele, expansion of the venous vessels of the testicles in men;
to cervical varicose veins in women.

Why do varicose veins progress? Veins are equipped with valves that regulate the direction of blood flow in only one direction - towards the heart. If the valve does not perform its functions properly, the blood moves downward under the influence of gravity, and blood is thrown back into the lower vessels.

The load on the peripheral veins stretches the walls of blood vessels, creates aneurysms, and this exacerbates varicose veins. Blood reflux is involved in the formation of pain in the victim, therefore, with acute pain, you need to throw your legs back above head level.

Stagnation of blood adversely affects the metabolism in cells, tissues experience a lack of oxygen and poisoning with toxic decay products.

Removal of toxins and renewal of blood occurs only if there is at least some part of the working veins. Therefore, in the treatment of certain types of varicose veins, for example, varicocele in men, pathologically deformed veins are simply truncated, and blood is directed through the least damaged vessels.

Why are varicose veins dangerous?

For every patient who has just encountered this disease, it is already obvious that swelling, pain and cramps worsen the quality of life. The general harm of varicose veins for the body:

high probability of tissue death due to venous insufficiency;
blockage of blood vessels;
necrotic and trophic processes;
gangrene;
infection in the circulatory system, sepsis;
death.

Varicose veins develop with greater or lesser intensity. The patient may suffer from this disease from 2 to 10 years, but still not have symptoms such as convulsions, trophic ulcers or thrombophlebitis.

The rate of development of varicose veins accelerates:

pregnancy, childbirth, menopause;
sedentary lifestyle;
diabetes.

In the presence of one or more of these factors, you need to seriously think about the prevention of dangerous consequences.

On foot

is the most common type of varicose veins. Each stage of the disease is characterized by various pathological processes:

First stage	Heaviness in the legs, fatigue. The vessels are slightly deformed, it is impossible to visually detect the pathology, there is no pain.
Second	Swelling of the feet, fatigue and heaviness in the legs, pain after exercise. Convulsions, especially at night and in the morning. Dilated veins are visually detected, blood clots are small and rarely occur. Most patients complain of a violation of sensitivity: flow, numbness, tingling.
Third	Severe swelling, intense pain, loss of sensation. Frequent convulsions, larger blood clots, with blockage of the vessel - subcutaneous hemorrhage. Eczema or dermatitis appears, skin pigmentation changes. Wounds heal for a long time, trophic ulcers appear.
Fourth stage	Chronic pain, persistent swelling, cyanosis. The color of the legs turns blue. Sensitivity is lost. Vascular occlusion occurs frequently, this causes necrosis. The death of tissues is accompanied by the release of pus, fistulas and ulcers are formed. High probability of gangrene and sepsis.

For older patients, especially those suffering from atherosclerosis, varicose veins create the possibility of a general lack of blood supply.

Lack of blood volume and slow circulation causes oxygen starvation of the brain tissue. Atherosclerosis and circulatory failure are provoking factors for the development of senile dementia and dementia.

What is the danger of varicose veins in the legs in women:

insufficiency of venous circulation adversely affects the work of the entire circulatory system, which creates a problem for carrying a pregnancy;
in women, the disease progresses faster than in men, so women experience convulsions, trophic ulcers and other consequences of varicose veins earlier.

Varicose veins on the legs in men in most cases are formed under the influence of intense physical activity. If the patient cannot change the specifics of his work, the disease will continue to worsen, successively passing through all the stages.

testicles in men

The veins of the spermatic cord are located in such a way that it is very convenient to treat testicular varicose veins. Therefore, those men who do not want to suffer the consequences of varicose veins can get help safely and affordably.

Varicose veins of the testicles can lead to the following consequences:

Violation of spermatogenesis	There is an optimal temperature for the production of high-quality seminal fluid. When the outflow of heated venous blood is obstructed, the temperature of the testicles rises. As a result, sperm contains many non-viable and defective spermatozoa. Varicocele is one of the main causes of male infertility.
Temperature increase	It leads to a decrease in the production of the male sex hormone, testosterone, and all related changes. For example, obesity and hair loss.
Reflux of venous blood from the renal and adrenal veins	Occurs when venous valves fail. The blood coming from the renal and adrenal veins contains hormones that adversely affect the condition of the testicles. Against the background of reflux, an inflammatory process occurs in the testicles and appendages, epididymitis.
testicular atrophy	It develops due to insufficient blood outflow, oxygen starvation of tissues and thrombosis. With necrotic changes, the only adequate treatment is the removal of the organ.

More often affects the left testicle. In the early stages, the patient will not be able to determine the condition of the vessels himself, so it is better to entrust the diagnosis to a professional. The urologist deals with the treatment of the disease.

Uterus

Dangerous consequences of varicose veins of the cervix and body of the uterus occur during pregnancy. Already at the end of the 2nd trimester, a woman begins to be disturbed by pulling pains in the lower back and lower abdomen. The increased load on the muscles and vessels of the uterus contributes to even greater deformation of the vessels.

During childbirth, dilated venous vessels have a high probability of rupture, so all women with need to give birth by caesarean section.

The gynecologist deals with the treatment of uterine varicose veins. As part of pregnancy planning, if you suspect varicose veins, you need to examine the vessels of the pelvic organs.

If you do not engage in prevention and treatment

In most cases, patients go to the doctor only when pain and swelling of the legs appear, that is, already at the 2nd stage of varicose veins. Varicose veins are well studied, and it is easy to predict how the disease will develop in the future.

Here is what happens if a person does not pay attention to the condition of the vessels:

the walls of the veins will sag more and more, the aneurysms will become more extensive;
in places of stagnation, the blood will begin to clot, blood clots will appear;
blockage of blood vessels will lead to oxygen starvation and cell death;
the patient will suffer from pain, cramps, swelling and numbness of the legs;
against the background of venous insufficiency, the skin will begin to collapse, eczema, trophic ulcers, dermatitis will appear;
tissue death and the formation of necrotic foci will cause a large-scale inflammatory process;
the victim will be hospitalized with gangrene, surgeons will amputate all dead tissue;
if hospitalization does not occur, intoxication will incapacitate the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys (in any order), resulting in death.

In the context of the availability of medical care, only unreasonable patients do not treat varicose veins immediately, as soon as signs of a violation appear.

Disability

According to the estimates of the Medical and Social Expertise, from 10 to 30% of all patients diagnosed with varicose veins have the right to disability.

In order to clarify your rights to disability, you need to get the conclusion of a phlebologist and provide your medical data to an expert commission to determine the ability to work.

Disability payments do little to compensate for all the physical suffering that a patient experiences in the later stages of varicose veins.

Timely diagnosis is the protection against pain, non-healing ulcers and necrosis.

The slightest changes, even barely noticeable to the naked eye, such as small venous networks, edema, vascular "asterisks", are evidence of pathological processes in the body.

ATTENTION! In the absence of treatment, complications of this disease are simply inevitable:

Telangiectasia. It is a characteristic cobwebs, asterisks, blue or red nets causing venous insufficiency.
Venous thrombosis. Deep veins become clogged with small blood clots and are characterized by severe pain and swelling of the legs and thighs.
Thrombophlebitis. In chronic stagnant processes, the blood begins to thicken, clogging the vessels and forming blood clots inside the saphenous veins.

With a favorable development of the disease, clots can grow through the connective tissue and subsequent resorption. This action occurs due to drug therapy or in more rare cases spontaneously.

IMPORTANT! With the unfavorable development of varicose veins, complete blockage, ascending varicothrombophlephitis and, as a rule, emergency hospitalization occur. The most severe consequence is arterial thromboembolism, and even death.

What is the danger of varicose veins in the legs?

Delayed or incorrect treatment can lead to thrombosis(complete or partial closure of a vein by a blood clot), as well as formation of a trophic ulcer.

The early stages of varicose veins of the lower extremities are characterized by the formation of small vein nodes that do not cause much discomfort. The next stage is characterized by an increase in dilated veins, soreness can be felt in progressive areas.

REFERENCE! At the next stage, venous insufficiency occurs, manifested in extensive swelling of the legs. The skin integuments darken in the ankle area, various kinds of skin inflammation develop: dermatitis, eczema.

According to statistics, 25% of the population suffering from this disease has thrombophlebitis. Thrombophlebitis progresses and occurs due to insufficient outflow of blood. Trophic ulcer(long time non-healing wounds) occur in the last stages and cause excruciating suffering to patients.

Why is pelvic varicose veins dangerous?

Statistics show that the main "audience" suffering from this disease are women of childbearing age. Men suffer from VRV much less frequently, but every fourth person over the age of 20 is at increased risk.

In women, 8 out of 10 average cases disease occurs due to backflow(reflux) through the veins of the ovaries.

In men, this course is provoked by venous obstruction of the spermatic cords. In the process, there is a weakening of the walls of the veins suffering from insufficiency of muscle elements.

REFERENCE! At the initial stage of the disease, there is an expansion of the ovarian veins up to 5-7 mm, gradually expanding to 13 mm at the last stage. The last stage in most cases leads to thrombophlebitis. At this stage of the development of the disease, there is a huge probability of a blood clot leaving and getting into the pulmonary artery or even the heart. This set of circumstances often ends in death.

Skin dermatitis, varicose eczema is also a very common form of complication in varicose veins of the small pelvis, leading to disability.

Varicose veins of the small pelvis are difficult to diagnose and in the initial stages do not make themselves felt. The main method of diagnosis is - ultrasound dopplerography and laparoscopy.

Any initial manifestations must be treated in a timely manner, because this is not only not an aesthetic appearance of the skin, but also a disease dangerous to health and life.

Useful video

The doctor talks about the danger of varicose veins:

Varicose veins (VRV) is a condition that develops predominantly in the adult population due to stress on the veins or congenital vascular weakness. Why are varicose veins dangerous? The disease often causes consequences of varying severity. With a long course of pathology and no treatment, the patient may develop thrombosis, inflammation of the vascular walls, and many other unpleasant complications.

Briefly about the disease

The term "varicose veins" in medical practice means a condition in which the patient has an increase in the lumen of the veins due to a malfunction of the valves responsible for blood circulation in the vessels of the lower extremities.

The disease develops under the influence of many adverse factors, more often with their combination.

Causes of VRV include:

period of pregnancy, childbirth;
excess body weight;
bad habits;
malnutrition;
features of working conditions - heavy physical exertion or, conversely, a sedentary lifestyle;
uncomfortable shoes;
sports.

Most often, varicose veins occur in the legs, because it is on this part of the body that the greatest load falls, but the pathology can manifest itself in other areas. Many people are diagnosed with vasodilation in the rectum (hemorrhoids). A dangerous disease is considered varicose veins of the esophagus. In women during pregnancy and childbirth, the vessels of the small pelvis suffer.

Common complications of varicose veins

Having figured out what the essence of the disease is, we will try to find out why varicose veins are dangerous. Due to the influence of adverse factors on the body, the veins expand and the valves diverge. This phenomenon entails the development of a stagnant process due to improper functioning of the vascular valves. In this case, the normal blood circulation is disturbed, its reverse flow occurs - reflux. A person develops areas with dilated veins - varicose veins. Further development of the disease is accompanied by various complications, sometimes extremely life-threatening.

The main danger of pathology is the formation of blood clots - blood clots. In VRV, such clots form from platelets, red blood cells, and fibrin. More often, blood clots form in the region of the veins located on the legs. Their danger lies in the development of such terrible consequences as pulmonary embolism, heart attacks, strokes.

Blood clots pose a serious threat to the whole body

If the treatment of the disease is not carried out, the person is faced with many unpleasant symptoms. These include soreness, swelling, changes in the structure and tone of the skin.

Venous ulcers

Venous or trophic ulcers are characterized by skin lesions, the cause of which is a violation of blood flow and lymphatic drainage against the background of VRV. Due to the lack of oxygen and other nutrients in the area of the lower extremities, areas are formed that are difficult to treat and heal over several months.

The course of the disease is complicated by the frequent addition of a bacterial infection. In this case, the patient experiences severe pain, heaviness in the legs. Wounds have a very unpleasant appearance, bleed, fester. Treatment is carried out with the help of antiplatelet agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibacterial drugs.

Dermal lesion

Violation of the venous valves leads to the development of stagnant processes, a decrease in skin nutrition with the necessary components. Blood cells are susceptible to destruction, which entails the accumulation of a specific hemosiderin pigment. In this case, the dermis in the area of the affected areas acquires an unhealthy purple or bluish-gray color. This is accompanied by dry, itchy sensations. Often, against the background of skin lesions, eczema and dermatitis of a different nature develop. Damage to the dermis in such areas leads to the formation of wounds that do not heal for a long time, up to ulcers.

Thrombophlebitis

With a thrombus, thrombophlebitis is diagnosed - blockage of the vessel. In most cases, thrombophlebitis of the superficial veins is observed, but there is also a blockage of deep vessels. In this case, the patient develops acute pain, redness and swelling of the dermis in the area of the affected vessel, local hyperemia and some other symptoms.

If a patient has varicose veins in the rectal area, there is a risk of bleeding. Damaged vessels have very thin and brittle walls. Bleeding can open due to irritation of the rectum with feces or during strong physical exertion. Due to the constant loss of blood, even of a minor nature, the patient may develop anemia, and general well-being may decrease.

Bleeding is a common complication of varicose veins.

Important! The above complications can occur individually or in combination with each other. All this leads to disability, and sometimes even disability of a person.

Danger of RVV for women

It has been proven that the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity are more prone to varicose veins. This is due to pregnancy, childbirth, frequent hormonal surges, wearing shoes with heels, tight tights. These conditions negatively affect the health of the vessels, which entails VRV.

The disease brings many undesirable adjustments to a woman's life. During the period of exacerbation of the pathology, medical treatment is required. This becomes a reason for the abolition of breastfeeding, therefore, the child also suffers.

In addition, women often suffer from varicose veins in the pelvic area. This type of pathology often entails the following complications:

intrauterine bleeding- a dangerous condition in which a woman can lose a large amount of blood. At the same time, general well-being is disturbed, there is a lack of hemoglobin and other vital substances;
inflammation of the appendages- Another dangerous complication of varicose veins in the pelvic area. The inflammatory process is often chronic, negatively affects the entire reproductive system of a woman;
impossibility of pregnancy and gestation- one of the most formidable consequences of the WWII. It develops due to inflammation, chronic circulatory disorders, the formation of blood clots and blockage of the arteries.

Pelvic varicose veins in women often develop during pregnancy.

In severe cases, a woman may need radical treatments, up to the complete removal of the uterus and appendages.

Complications of varicose veins in men

Varicose veins in the pelvic area in men are less common, but the consequences of the disease can also be the most negative. In men, against the background of pathology, the following conditions occur:

testicular atrophy - occurs due to a strong violation of blood flow;
varicocele - expansion of blood vessels in the field of the spermatic cord. This complication entails the risk of infertility;
decrease in male libido, worsening of erection;
the formation of hematomas in the pelvis;
male infertility.

Due to the specifics of work, many men suffer from varicose veins of the rectum. Lack of treatment often leads to the formation of external hemorrhoids, severe pain, bleeding.

Important! Treatment of the disease in men and women should be carried out in a timely manner, regardless of the severity of the course and the localization of the lesion of the veins.

What happens if you don't treat

Any disease should be taken under medical control. If treatment is carried out too late or not at all, serious complications can be avoided in rare cases. In the absence of proper therapy in patients with VRV, the following clinical picture is observed:

Constant deterioration of health and condition of the veins in the affected areas. Varicose veins do not go away on their own. The disease will progress rapidly, especially if the negative factors that caused it persist.
Over time, most patients develop thrombophlebitis, the walls of the veins and capillaries stretch, become inflamed due to malfunctioning valves, venous stasis and impaired lymph outflow. There is a serious threat of the formation of blood clots and their separation from the walls. Blood clots can block arteries that supply blood to vital organs, such as the lungs.
At the last stage of the development of the pathology, trophic ulcers are formed, in especially severe cases, gangrene occurs.

The danger of varicose veins lies in the formation of long-term healing trophic ulcers.

In the last stages of the disease, VRV is not amenable to conservative treatment. Such patients require surgery, which often entails many complications (pain, swelling, scars, infection of tissues, etc.).

The most severe complications

Many consider varicose veins to be a harmless disease, unable to lead to dangerous complications. This is far from true. There are consequences of the pathology, which are often incompatible with life. Let's consider a few of them.

Pulmonary embolism

As already mentioned, VRV can provoke the formation of blood clots. If a blood clot obstructs one of the branches of the lungs, the patient has a pulmonary embolism. In this case, the patient feels shortness of breath, chest pains. The condition is accompanied by rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing. In severe cases, there is hemoptysis, fever, vomiting, fainting.

The consequences of blockage of the vessels of the lung can be as follows:

pulmonary infarction;
pneumonia;
abscess;
accumulation of air;
kidney damage.

In the absence of medical care, thromboembolism is often fatal.

Bleeding in the esophagus

Varicose veins of the esophagus are considered a dangerous pathology. It develops under the influence of such provoking factors as circulatory disorders in this area, liver disease, heart failure, tumors, and more. Symptoms of VRV of the esophagus include difficulty swallowing, pain in the sternum, heartburn.

Approximately 30% of all patients with esophageal varicose veins have a complication such as bleeding. Due to the constant irritation of the walls with food, damage to the vessels occurs. Bleeding leads to the development of anemia, fatigue, reduced ability to work.

Important! With prolonged and intense bleeding, there is a serious threat of death of the patient.

Rectal cancer

Stagnant processes, accompanied by the formation of hemorrhoids, lead to a violation of the integrity and normal functioning of the rectal mucosa. This process significantly increases the risk of developing cancer. The clinical picture of the patient in this case is as follows:

pain in the anus;
secretion of blood, pus, mucus;
increase in body temperature;
deterioration in general well-being;
dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract.

Pathology is treated surgically. With late diagnosis, it can be quite difficult to cope with the disease.

A terrible complication of varicose veins in the rectal area is cancer of this area.

Prevention of complications in varicose veins

Answering the question of whether varicose veins are dangerous, we can say that the disease really poses a serious threat to health. Prevention of complications of VRV is much easier than treatment. To avoid serious consequences, you should consult a doctor in a timely manner, do not let the disease take its course. In addition, it is important to give up bad habits, properly organize working conditions, observe sufficient physical activity, and eat right. If necessary, you need to change the place of work, abandon heavy physical exertion. During pregnancy, it is important for women to monitor their weight, wear a special supporting bandage. All this will help maintain the health of blood vessels, prevent life-threatening complications.

Varicose veins is a pathological process, which is characterized by an increase in the vascular lumen, a decrease in blood outflow, thinning of the walls of blood vessels and their deformation. For anatomical reasons, the disease is usually diagnosed in the veins of the legs.

External symptoms of the disease are not only an aesthetic problem, protruding dark-colored spider veins pose a threat to the health and life of the patient. Varicose veins affect people who lead a sedentary lifestyle, are forced to remain in a sitting position for a long time, and suffer from increased blood viscosity.

The disease begins with the veins of the lower extremities, the first varicose nodes appear under the knees. At first, the pathology is asymmetric, with time it develops on both legs. Blood stagnation occurs in dilated veins, often its volume can reach two liters.

Pressure increases in the veins, nearby lymph nodes also expand, and lymph stagnates. Then, under its own pressure, the tissue fluid begins to filter into the tissues, the patient's legs swell greatly.

What is the danger of varicose veins

The danger of varicose veins lies in the increased risk of developing concomitant diseases. Some of them are fraught with serious health problems and death.

What threatens varicose veins in the legs? The patient may begin an inflammatory process of the venous walls, the disease is called phlebitis. Violation is diagnosed in the vessels located just under the skin.

The main symptom of inflammation is a strong pain syndrome, it is aching or dull in nature. On palpation of the affected area, a seal is felt, with strong pressure, severe pain appears.

The skin can also hurt, on it:

redness appears;
swelling increases;
the temperature rises.

If the patient touches the covers or simply moves the leg, he will feel a sharp pain. If the symptoms of phlebitis are ignored, thrombophlebitis develops. Malaise, chills, loss of appetite, deterioration of health are added to the general picture of the disease.

Thrombi are attached to the walls of blood vessels, during the flow of blood they are able to come off, move to the heart muscle. When a blood clot enters the pulmonary artery, the patient dies instantly in 30% of cases.

The most common cause of varicose veins is thrombosis, in which clots form in the lumen of deep veins. With such a diagnosis, the likelihood of a fatal outcome increases several times. Usually:

the problem develops in the veins of the calf muscles;
the patient's ankle swells sharply;
swelling of the muscles of the leg is felt.

The formation of blood clots is also possible in the blood vessels of the abdominal cavity, in some cases, swelling covers the entire lower limb. For treatment, the patient is prescribed an operation, this is important for preventing the movement of a blood clot through the blood.

Varicose veins can lead to pulmonary embolism. A blood clot stops the lumen of the artery, causing insufficient supply of oxygen molecules to the heart.

The larger the clot, the more serious the consequences can be.

Other complications

With varicose veins, swelling and ulcers often form. It may be milky or blue swelling. In the first case, they speak of blockage by a deep vein thrombus. The covers in the affected area become milky white, the limbs hurt, become heavier. In the second case, we are talking about swelling of the limb, the acquisition of a blue tint of the skin.

As the disorder worsens, edema also affects healthy tissues, trophic ulcers with purulent exudate appear on them. The lack of adequate therapy provokes the development of gangrene, loss of a limb.

Due to the thinning of the skin covering the veins, the patient experiences subcutaneous hemorrhages. Inflamed vessels rupture under strong pressure, and the blood comes out.

Another problem associated with varicose veins is telangiectasia. The phenomenon is characterized by a vascular pattern of blue or red. Easily distinguishable stars and mesh appear on the legs.

The danger lies not in external imperfections, but in venous insufficiency. When violated, a man or woman suffers from:

heaviness in the legs;
numbness;
convulsions.

When a patient leads a sedentary lifestyle, his body weight increases. At the same time, hemorrhoids actively begin to form in the rectum. Periodically, neoplasms become inflamed, bleed, and can degenerate into oncology.

Varicose veins in men can threaten venous insufficiency, which is accompanied by numbness of the lower extremities, severe pain, and restriction of movement. In the stronger sex, there is an increased formation of blood clots, after which a heart attack should be expected.

In some patients, the formation of ulcers, circulatory disorders, edema and inflammation in the veins are detected.

The symptoms are most pronounced in heavy smokers and lovers of strong drinks.

Problems for women

Statistics show that the negative effects of varicose veins occur more often in women. The reasons should be sought in the numerous hormonal changes that occur during puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, abortion and menopause. An imbalance of hormones adversely affects the condition of the veins and blood vessels of the legs.

The problem is relevant for women who prefer to wear high-heeled shoes, too tight-fitting clothes. Weak veins cause difficulties in carrying a child, during childbirth.

During pregnancy, the legs are subject to increased stress, especially in the last weeks of the term. If preventive measures are not followed, a woman will face adverse consequences:

venous insufficiency;
bleeding under the skin;
trophic ulcers.

The patient must be observed by a phlebologist. In the absence of progression of the disease, complications of labor activity do not occur. It is important to use compression underwear, such a measure will prevent the rupture of the affected veins.

Basic Treatments

The method of therapy always depends on the severity of the disease, the symptoms and the age of the patient. To determine these features, the patient must pass a series of special tests, undergo Dopplerography.

Modern medicine offers a number of treatments that will be an excellent alternative to surgery. After the procedure, no scars or other signs of the disease remain on the human skin.

Sclerotherapy has proven itself well, the manipulation involves the introduction of a sclerosant drug into the affected vein. As soon as the drug begins to act, the inflamed vein becomes, as it were, glued together, invisible.

Laser coagulation is also practiced, the radiation penetrates into the vein, under the influence of heat the affected area:

sticks together;
stops functioning;
resolves.

Studies have shown that in almost 98% of cases with laser treatment of varicose veins during the first 5 years there is no recurrence at all.

Radiofrequency ablation works against the disease. The duration of the procedure is from 30 to 60 minutes, a puncture is made in the damaged area, and a radiofrequency catheter is placed in the hole. Under the influence of the device, the vein sticks together, the patient's well-being gradually improves.

As with, the radio frequency method does not provoke burns, scars, or other damage to the skin. Due to the presence of special sensors present in the catheter, the doctor fully controls the manipulation process.

In addition, patients can also use alternative methods of treatment. Apple cider vinegar worked great. The product contains a lot of vitamins, minerals, it can be used both internally and externally.

Vinegar is used three times a day, it is necessary to moisten a cotton pad, lubricate the sore spots with liquid. For ingestion, a couple of large spoons of vinegar are added to a glass of water, drunk in the morning and evening before meals.

A suitable option is birch buds and leaves. Necessary:

sew small bags from cotton fabric;
fill them with raw materials;
sew up neatly.

The bags are placed on the legs in such a way that the leaves fit the legs from all sides. The thickness should be about the size of a finger. As soon as the feet begin to sweat, the leaves get wet, the bags should be replaced with fresh ones.

After a couple of sessions, the patient will notice the positive dynamics of the disease. For some people, 2-4 treatments are enough.

With severe swelling, the duration of treatment is determined on an individual basis.

Prevention measures

Varicose veins are a dangerous disease, without adequate medical care, it provokes an early death. In order to prevent the disease, simple recommendations should be followed. If there is a predisposition to varicose veins, the patient should wear special underwear, give up high heels, and not stay in one position for a long time.

The condition for preventing varicose veins will be the rejection of hormonal drugs, oral contraceptives. It will not be superfluous to regularly do foot baths, take medications to stimulate the immune system.

When the problem with the legs has already appeared, it is necessary to take measures as soon as possible to eliminate it. With timely initiation of therapy.

Speaking of varicose veins, each visually represents a bluish network of swollen blood vessels, but few people guess what is the danger of varicose veins in the legs of women.

Varicose veins are far from a cosmetic defect, but a serious pathology that can lead to dangerous consequences. Varicose veins appear in the legs, but in the absence of medical care, they can “get” to the heart.

The nature of the occurrence of varicose veins is associated with the gravity of our planet. The heart pumps blood and provides continuous blood flow throughout the body. On those vessels that are above the heart, gravity does not adversely affect.

Things are worse in the vessels that are below, namely on the legs. With a decrease in the tone of the veins or a tendency to the appearance of blood clots, blood circulation in the vessels of the legs worsens. The blood stagnates, the vessels are damaged. This leads to varicose veins.

The disease at an early stage is almost asymptomatic. Often, the fair sex writes off heaviness in the legs, swelling, for general malaise after a hard day's work. In fact, with such symptoms, the body can signal the beginning of varicose veins.

The first stage of varicose veins is characterized by external manifestations of the disease:

nodules;
bluish skin;
leg swelling.

Symptoms of this stage are manifested in rapid fatigue, leg cramps are possible.

Varicose veins of this form make themselves felt in the evenings, after a long stay on the legs.

According to statistics, most patients seek medical help at the second stage. Pain in the legs intensifies, swelling and cramps in the evening and at night become permanent.

The third stage is the most dangerous. The outflow of blood from the legs worsens. The skin becomes dry and pigmentation changes. The veins become inflamed, clearly bulge, and there is a risk with any injury. This stage is the most severe and, in the absence of therapy, varicose veins develop into other more serious diseases.

Varicose veins - a female disease

World statistics show that women are five times more likely to suffer from varicose veins. And there are reasons for this:

Reference. According to statistics, about 90% of cases of varicose veins are associated with the course of pregnancy.

What is the danger of varicose veins in the legs

The lack of treatment of varicose veins not only aggravates the condition of the veins, but also leads to severe and dangerous consequences. Launched varicose veins progresses and, if not properly treated, can lead to death. Varieties of the consequences of varicose veins:

thrombophlebitis;
thrombosis;
thromboembolism;
the formation of trophic ulcers and edema;
bleeding.

Let's look at them in more detail below.

Phlebitis

This is inflammation of the walls of the veins from the inside. Visually, this is manifested in the reddening of the skin over the veins. There is swelling and soreness when touched. The skin itself over the vein also becomes painful.

The site of the inflamed vein becomes warm. Exacerbation of phlebitis leads to severe pain when touching the affected area. The skin acquires a bright color, the movement of the limb leads to pain.

This condition of the veins leads to thinning of their walls. Even a minor injury can cause bleeding under the skin. A brown spot is observed at this place, over time it disappears. However, there are situations when the brown pigment remains forever.

Thrombophlebitis

It is characterized by the appearance of blood clots on the walls of the veins. The patient is concerned about the following symptoms:

loss of appetite;
chills;
general malaise.

The danger of this condition lies in the fact that blood clots potentially threaten human life. A blood clot can break off at any time and travel through the bloodstream to the pulmonary artery. Such a situation can lead to even the most deplorable consequences. The chance of death is small, but it exists.

Thrombosis

Ignoring thrombophlebitis is fraught with the occurrence of thrombosis, when blood clots form in deep veins. The danger of the condition lies in the fact that the formation of blood clots in deep veins is more likely to be fatal. Deep veins lead to the heart muscle, from where a blood clot can enter the pulmonary artery.

Thromboembolism

When a thrombus separates from the venous wall and moves into the pulmonary artery, thromboembolism develops. A thrombus blocks blood flow to the left atrium. The severity of the consequences directly depends on the size of the thrombus. In such a situation, the following symptoms are observed:

chest pain;
dyspnea;
frequent breathing;
bouts of coughing.

Edema and trophic ulcers

Advanced cases of varicose veins can lead to swelling of the extremities. Varicose veins are divided into two types:

dairy;
blue.

The nature of the first edema is often associated with the birth of a child and occurs in the first time after childbirth. The legs swell, become whitish in color. Occur due to obstruction of blood flow in deep veins.

Blue edema is what is dangerous for varicose veins. It leads to blue extremities. Due to the deterioration of blood circulation in the limbs, the legs freeze.

Failure to take measures of therapy in this case leads to the formation of trophic ulcers. Such wounds are filled with purulent contents and after the appearance can remain for life. In the worst case, the swelling leads to gangrene of the extremities.

Bleeding

With the advanced course of the disease, the condition of the walls of the vessels worsens. With a jump in venous pressure (may even occur due to coughing), or external trauma to the affected area, the vein is easily damaged and bleeding occurs.

Pregnancy and varicose veins

As pregnancy progresses, a woman's hormonal levels change significantly. Hormonal surges can be a prerequisite for the occurrence of varicose veins. Complications during pregnancy are more likely to occur as many treatments are contraindicated during this period.

The consequences of varicose veins during pregnancy include:

bleeding;
thrombophlebitis;
thrombosis;
trophic ulcers;
venous insufficiency, which can become chronic.

If the appearance of varicose veins could not be avoided, it is recommended that a woman wear it before giving birth to avoid injury to the affected areas and bleeding.

However, if there are complications or advanced varicose veins, this may be a contraindication to natural delivery.

Treatment Methods

The sooner you start treating varicose veins, the faster the result will be achieved.

Conclusion

A frivolous attitude to varicose veins in the legs leads to serious and even life-threatening consequences. Venous insufficiency, blockage of blood vessels, tissue necrosis, ulceration and even gangrene - this is what leads to varicose veins in the legs.

Such consequences do not necessarily occur during the course of the disease for years, complications can occur in a few days. By neglecting treatment, you not only worsen the quality of your life, but also put it at risk.

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