Varicose veins are a pathological process characterized by the expansion of the vessels that carry blood to the heart, their deformation, as well as the development of valvular insufficiency resulting in dysfunction. A clear sign of the disease is the veins protruding to the surface of the skin, their tuberosity, the appearance of trophic ulcers.
But the main danger of varicose veins is blood stagnation and the development of thrombophlebitis, that is, circulatory disorders. For the comprehensive treatment of the disease, a number of measures are used, among 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 them.
Purpose and types of ointments for varicose veins
First of all, I would like to point out that ointments and gels are used at all stages of the development of the disease and, depending on the period of application, are aimed at providing a different effect:
- In the initial stages of varicose veins, gels and ointments help to slow the progression of the disease process, preventing the deformation of blood vessels and thinning of the vascular walls.
- In the later stages, the goal is also to prevent the disease from progressing. However, topical products also help improve blood circulation, prevent severe congestion, and also aim to combat symptoms, including pain, swelling, cramps, skin pigmentation changes, and more.
- 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 the superficial tissues, but also the internal structures. Also, depending on the properties of the drug, some gels and ointments relieve possible swelling, reduce inflammation, and block 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 medicinal product 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 important);
- Swelling, their intensity;
- Convulsions, usually at night;
- Changes in skin pigmentation, the skin may acquire a bluish tint.
It is also important to understand that the use of ointments or gels cannot cure varicose veins, but these funds can really reduce the intensity of individual symptoms, somehow improve the state of blood vessels and preventdevelopment of pathologies.
Also, before using any of the drugs described below, you should consult a phlebologist.
Phlebotonics
Drugs of this group form 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, reduce the intensity of edema to some extent, and also eliminate the feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs.
Anticoagulants
Their main property is blood thinning, which is very important in some stages of varicose veins, as well as in cases where the pathology proceeds against the background of an increase in the concentration of platelets in the blood. In view of the fact that the blood becomes less viscous, the process of circulation through the vascular bed is facilitated, respectively, the process of blood circulation is normalized and stagnant processes are eliminated. Additionally, anticoagulants prevent blood clots from forming.
Taking into account the properties described, the drugs of this group help reduce edema in the legs, eliminate pain by relieving congestion and combat the sensation 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 diagnostic data obtained, can prescribe local anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of ointments or gels to a patient with varicose veins.
A striking example is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which effectively eliminate painful sensations, as well as having a marked anti-inflammatory effect.
Ointments based on natural ingredients
Such drugs are prescribed mainly in the initial stages of varicose veins, are used to treat pregnant women or replace the previously described drugs to take a break from the course of treatment.
The above is due to the fact that products based on natural components, often vegetable, act more sparingly. In addition, they can be used on an ongoing basis, unlike drug groups used in a course, after which it is important to take a break.
The difference between ointments and gels
In fact, medicated ointments and gels bought at the pharmacy are similar drugs. They apply in the same way if it is a question of drugs of the same group, have an identical therapeutic effect, in addition, they also contain the same chemical components.
As for the differences, they are few and far between:
- The ointments are made from fats, both vegetable and animal. It is also important to understand that the active ingredients in ointments do not dissolve completely, retaining their original chemical structure. Due to these features, the ointment should be rubbed into the skin more carefully, and even after that it is necessary to wait from 5 to 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 in their composition are completely dissolved. Thanks to these factors, the gel is absorbed much faster.
As mentioned above, any medication, including ointments and gels for varicose veins for external use, must be prescribed by the attending physician.