Varicose veins are a pathological process characterized by the dilation and deformation of blood vessels that carry blood to the heart, as well as the development of valve failure and subsequent dysfunction. A clear sign of the disease is the appearance of veins protruding on the surface of the skin, their tuberosity, trophic ulcers.
But the main danger of varicose veins is blood stagnation and the development of thrombophlebitis, i. e. circulatory disorders. A number of measures are used to completely treat the disease, among which drug therapy and surgery are the most demanding and effective. In addition, ointments and gels for varicose veins are very often used as adjunctive treatments, these are what we are talking about.
Purpose and types of varicose ointments
First of all, I would like to note that ointments and gels are used at all stages of the development of the disease and are intended to have a different effect depending on the duration of application:
- In the initial stage of varicose veins, gels and ointments make it possible to prevent the progression of the pathological process by preventing the deformation of the blood vessels and the thinning of the vessel walls.
- In later stages, the goal is also to keep the disease from progressing. In addition, topical products help improve blood circulation, prevent severe congestion, and combat symptoms including pain, swelling, cramps, changes in skin pigmentation, and more.
- In addition, after surgical treatment of varicose veins, doctors often prescribe ointments and gels. In this case, it is possible to accelerate the rehabilitation period, not only to heal the surface tissues, but also the internal structures. In addition, depending on the properties of the drug, certain gels and ointments relieve any possible swelling, reduce inflammation, and stop other unpleasant effects caused by certain types of surgeries.
Ointments and gels include drugs that are divided into several groups. The choice of drug should be based on clinical symptoms, which may include:
- Increased leg fatigue, painful feelings, tightness;
- Swollen veins (this symptom accompanies almost every stage of varicose veins, the severity of the symptom is important);
- Puffiness, their intensity;
- Cramps, usually at night;
- Changes in skin pigmentation, skin may acquire a bluish tinge.
It is also important to understand that ointments or gels may not cure varicose veins, but these bases can actually reduce the intensity of certain symptoms, slightly improve the condition of blood vessels, and prevent the development of pathology.
In addition, you should consult a phlebologist before taking any of the medications described below.
Phlebotonics
Medicines in this group are the basis for the treatment of varicose veins and are prescribed in the form of both tablets and ointments. These drugs are designed to improve blood circulation, which prevents stagnant processes. They increase the outflow of lymphatic and vascular tone, reduce the intensity of edema to some extent, and eliminate the feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs.
Anticoagulants
Their main property is blood dilution, which is very important in certain stages of the varicose veins, as well as in cases where the pathology is due to an increase in platelet concentration. Due to the fact that the blood will be less viscous, it facilitates its circulation on the vascular bed and normalizes the circulatory process and eliminates stagnant processes. Anticoagulants prevent blood clots from forming.
Considering the properties described, medications in this group help reduce foot edema, eliminate pain by relieving congestion, and overcome feelings of narrowing and fatigue. Anticoagulants also prevent the development of complications such as thrombophlebitis or trophic ulcers.
Anti-inflammatory
Based on the diagnostic data received, the phlebologist may prescribe topical anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of ointments or gels to varicose veins.
A striking example is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are effective in eliminating painful sensations and have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
Ointments based on natural ingredients
Such drugs are mainly prescribed in the early stages of varicose veins, are used to treat pregnant women, or are substitutes for drugs previously described in order to take a break during treatment.
The above is due to the economical nature of products based on natural, often plant-based ingredients. Moreover, they can be used continuously, unlike groups of drugs used in a course, after which it is important to take a break.
Difference Between Ointments And Gels
Essentially, medicated ointments and gels purchased at the pharmacy are similar drugs. They are used in the same way if they belong to the same group of medicines, have the same therapeutic effect and even contain the same chemical ingredients.
As for the differences, there are few:
- Ointments are based on vegetable and animal fats. It is also important to understand that the active ingredients in ointments do not dissolve completely, retaining their original chemical structure. Because of these properties, the ointment should be rubbed more carefully into the skin and even after that it should wait 5-15 minutes until it is completely absorbed, otherwise the therapeutic effect will not be complete;
- The distinguishing feature of gels is that they are water-based and the pharmaceutical components in their composition are completely dissolved. Due to these factors, the gel is absorbed much faster.
As mentioned earlier, your doctor should prescribe all medications, including ointments and gels, to treat varicose veins.