Varicose veins are a pathological process characterized by the expansion of the vessels that carry blood to the heart, its deformation, as well as the development of valve insufficiency with consequent dysfunction. A clear sign of the disease are the veins that protrude to the surface of the skin, its 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 complete treatment of the disease, a set of measures is used, among which drug therapy and surgery are the most required and effective. In addition, ointments and gels for varicose veins are widely 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 note that ointments and gels are used at all stages of the development of the disease and, depending on the period of application, they aim to provide a different effect:
- In the early stages of varicose veins, gels and ointments make it possible to contain the progression of the pathological process, preventing vascular deformation and thinning of the vascular walls.
- In the later stages, the goal is also to prevent the disease from progressing. However, in addition, topical products help to improve blood circulation, prevent serious congestion and also aim to combat symptoms, including pain, swelling, cramps, changes in skin pigmentation 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. In addition, depending on the properties of the drug, certain gels and ointments relieve possible swelling, reduce inflammation and interrupt other unpleasant effects caused by certain types of surgery.
Among the ointments and gels, there are medications that are divided into several groups. The choice of medication should be based on clinical signs, which may be as follows:
- Increased fatigue in the legs, painful sensations, tight feeling;
- Swollen veins (this symptom accompanies almost all stages of varicose veins, the severity of the symptom is important);
- Swelling, its intensity;
- Seizures, 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 cannot cure varicose veins, but these features can actually reduce the intensity of individual symptoms, slightly improve the condition of blood vessels and prevent the development of pathologies.
Also, before using any of the medications described below, you should consult a phlebologist.
Phlebotonic
The drugs in this group form the basis of the medical treatment of varicose veins, being prescribed both in tablets and in ointments. These drugs are designed to improve blood circulation, which prevents stagnation processes. They increase the flow of lymph and the vascular tone, reduce to some extent the intensity of the edema, and also eliminate the sensation of weight and fatigue in the legs.
Anticoagulants
Its main property is blood affinity, which is very important in certain stages of varicose veins, as well as in cases where the pathology continues in the context of an increase in the concentration of platelets in the blood. Since the blood becomes less viscous, the process of its circulation through the vascular bed is facilitated, respectively, the blood circulation process is normalized and the stagnant processes are eliminated. In addition, anticoagulants prevent the formation of blood clots.
Taking into account the properties described, the drugs in this group help to 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 diagnostic data obtained, can prescribe local anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of ointments or gels to a patient with varicose veins.
A notable example are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which effectively eliminate painful sensations, in addition to having a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
Ointments based on natural ingredients
These drugs are mainly prescribed in the early stages of varicose veins, are used to treat pregnant women, or replace the drugs described above to stop treatment.
The above is due to the fact that products based on natural components, usually vegetables, act more moderately. In addition, they can be used continuously, unlike the drug groups that are used in a course, after which it is important to take a break.
The difference between ointments and gels
Basically, medicated ointments and gels bought at the pharmacy are similar drugs. They are applied in the same way if they are medicines of the same group, they have identical therapeutic effect, in addition, they even contain the same chemical components.
As for the differences, they are few and far between:
- 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, maintaining their original chemical structure. Due to these characteristics, the ointment must be rubbed into the skin more strongly and even after that it is necessary to wait 5 to 15 minutes until it is completely absorbed, otherwise the therapeutic effect will be incomplete;
- A distinguishing feature of gels is 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 previously mentioned, any medications, including ointments and gels for varicose veins for external use, must be prescribed by the attending physician.