Varicose veins are a pathological process characterized by the expansion of the ducts that transport blood to the heart, its deformation, as well as the development of valve insufficiency with subsequent dysfunction. A clear sign of the disease is a vein that protrudes to the surface of the skin, its tuberosity, the appearance of trophic ulcers.
But the main danger of varicose veins is the stagnation of blood and the development of thrombophlebitis, which is a disorder of the circulatory process. For the complete treatment of the disease, a set of measures is used, 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 an adjunct treatment, and we will discuss them.
Purpose and type of ointment for varicose veins
First of all, I would like to note that ointments and gels are used at all stages of disease development and, depending on the duration of use, are intended to give different effects:
- In the early stages of varicose veins, gels and ointments make it possible to inhibit the development of pathological processes, prevent vascular deformation and thinning of the vascular wall.
- At a later stage, the goal is also to prevent the disease from continuing to develop. However, in addition to these, external agents help improve blood circulation, prevent serious stagnation, and are also aimed at combating 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 varicose vein surgery. In this case, it is possible to speed up the recovery time, healing not only from superficial tissue, but also internal structures. In addition, relying on the properties of certain drugs, gels and ointments relieves swelling, reduces inflammation and stops the unpleasant effects caused by certain types of surgery.
Between ointments and gels, there are drugs that are divided into several groups. The choice of medication should be based on clinical indications, as follows:
- Increased leg fatigue, painful sensations, tightness;
- Swelling of the veins (these symptoms accompany almost all stages of varicose veins, the severity of the symptoms is important);
- Pride, intensity;
- Seizures, usually at night;
- Skin pigmentation changes, skin can acquire a bluish color.
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, slightly improve the condition of blood vessels and prevent the development of pathology.
Also, before using the medication described below, you should consult a phlebologist.
Phlebotonics
Drugs of this group form the basis of medical treatment of varicose veins, they are prescribed in tablet form and in the form of ointment. These drugs are designed to improve blood circulation, which prevents the process of stagnation. They increase lymph outflow and vascular tone, to some extent reduce the intensity of edema, and also eliminate the feeling of heaviness and fatigue in the legs.
Anticoagulant
Their main nature is the thinning of the blood, which is very important at certain levels of varicose veins, as well as in cases where the pathology runs with the background of increased platelet concentration in the blood. Given the fact that the blood becomes less viscous, its circulatory process through the vascular bed is facilitated, respectively, the circulatory process is normalized and the stagnant process is eliminated. Also, anticoagulants prevent blood clots from forming.
Taking into account the properties described, the drugs of this group help reduce edema in the legs, relieve pain by relieving congestion, and fight feelings of narrowing and fatigue. Also, 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 patients with varicose veins.
A striking example is the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which effectively relieves painful sensations, and also has a significant anti-inflammatory effect.
Ointment based on natural ingredients
These medications are prescribed primarily in the early stages of varicose veins, used to treat pregnant women, or they replace previously prescribed medications to rest from the course of treatment.
The above is due to the fact that products based on natural components, often plants, act more carefully. Moreover, they can be used continuously, unlike the group of drugs used in the course, after which it is important to rest.
The difference between ointment and gel
Basically, ointments and gels purchased at the pharmacy are similar medicines. They are used in the same way if these are drugs from the same group, have the same therapeutic effect, moreover, they also contain the same chemical components.
As for the differences, there are few and far between:
- Ointments are made based on fats, both vegetables and animals. It is also important to understand that the active ingredients in the ointment are not completely soluble, retaining their original chemical structure. Because of these characteristics, the ointment must be applied to the skin more carefully and even after that have to wait from 5 to 15 minutes until it is completely absorbed, otherwise the therapeutic effect is incomplete;
- A special feature of the gel is the fact that it is water-based, and the medical components in its composition are completely soluble. Thanks to these factors, the gel is absorbed faster.
As mentioned earlier, any medication, including ointments and gels for varicose veins for external use, should be prescribed by the treating physician.