Self-medication for varicose veins is the most popular method of therapy in Russia. The Internet is full of miracle recipes about apple cider vinegar, leeches and other magical technologies, and our fellow citizens willingly believe it. Varicose veins can now be cured inexpensively or even free of charge from certified specialists, but miracle shamans are still very popular. These are probably remnants of the primitive communal system of our ancestors. Only pain can make a person run to the doctor; we will diligently smear various nasty things on uncomplicated varicose veins in the hope that they will someday resolve.
Cure for varicose veins
The vast majority of people, choosing between surgical treatment of any disease (in our case, varicose veins) and possible non-invasive treatment, be it capsules, tablets for varicose veins, gels, ointments, herbs and infusions, will choose the second, especially if from all screens will tell them about their effectiveness and the unnecessaryness of any operations. The amount of information used to intoxicate patients can be judged by the amount of advertising of tablets and creams for varicose veins on all federal channels, where happy girls easily run after lubricating their healthy legs with a miracle cream or taking miracle pills.
What can replace venotonic tablets and capsules?
The only truly effective and efficient treatment for varicose veins at present is vein removal. Innovative interventions have transformed from serious operations to easy and safe outpatient procedures. One or two hours in the clinic and a serious problem with a long history is solved. It’s paradoxical, but modern innovative treatment for varicose veins is not only safe and comfortable, but also much more effective than a classic operation that has been proven for decades.
Modern treatment of varicose veins using sclerotherapy
Do not think that modern drugs are useless. They perfectly perform their functions in the complex treatment of venous pathology. However, treating varicose veins only with tablets and capsules is, at a minimum, not professional.
Do gels, decoctions, tablets and ointments help against varicose veins?
It is much easier and cheaper to take a pill, take infusions or smear inflamed veins, but such effective miracle remedies have not yet been invented, and long-term results testify against this, but self-hypnosis can work a miracle. Whether to throw money away is up to you. Selling medications for varicose veins on the legs has become a profitable business for pharmaceutical companies, since varicose veins are a very common disease.
Remedies for varicose veins are always of interest to suggestible patients, and since the veins do not bother them in the initial stages of the disease, patients are wary of any surgical help. Pharmaceutical companies spend enormous amounts of money to convince the population and even doctors that their pills are the best for varicose veins. The Servier company has been especially successful in this, organizing conferences and “research”, buying famous phlebologists in order to gain their authority to increase sales of its pills.
There are also folk remedies for “getting rid” of varicose veins:
Soda, mumiyo, iodine, peroxide, soap, clay, onion, cabbage, propolis and other remedies for varicose veins in the most miraculous way allow you to get rid of varicose nodes, mesh, as well as kidney and gallstones, tumors and gangrene. Ordinary people believe in this nonsense, not understanding either the causes or consequences of the disease. Thousands of messages on the Internet about magic pills and remedies for varicose veins on the legs are causing confusion in the minds of patients.
Are modern tablets and capsules for the treatment of varicose veins really so ineffective?
The modern pharmaceutical industry offers a large selection of good and high-quality drugs for oral use in the treatment of varicose veins. These agents have significant and proven effects in the treatment of swelling, heaviness, venous pain, cramps and discomfort associated with chronic venous insufficiency.
Modern venotonic - Detralex
But do these drugs treat varicose veins themselves?
A pathologically altered vein is a hollow tube with thinned walls and non-functioning valves. The best treatment, in theory, would be organic restoration of the venous vessel with normalization of the valve apparatus. It’s just that irreversible degenerative changes have already occurred in the venous wall. Today, at this stage of development of modern medicine and pharmacy, there are no effective ways to restore varicose veins, either with the help of interventions or tablets and capsules. Work in this direction is underway, but its effectiveness still leaves much to be desired. Perhaps the dream of restoring a vein destroyed by varicose veins will come true in the coming decades, but we live not in the future, but in the present.
Massage and bath for varicose veins
Massage, unlike many cheap phlebotonics from advertising, is a method of active treatment of varicose veins, helping to prevent edema, relieve swelling itself, fatigue of the lower extremities and reduce overall fatigue of the body.
The Innovative Vascular Center uses all types of modern massage, especially for pathologies of the lymphatic and venous systems. Among the exclusive methods is the technology of lymphatic drainage massage with banding, which very effectively relieves chronic venous insufficiency.
In case of chronic venous insufficiency, massage is used to eliminate venous hypertension in varicose veins and post-thrombotic syndrome. The combination of this technology with banding makes it possible to effectively eliminate all clinical manifestations of the disease.
Therapeutic massage is a very effective means of symptomatic treatment of varicose veins on the legs, but it provides only temporary relief. We use manual lymphatic drainage in patients with severe edema in patients with lymphovenous insufficiency. There is no need to be afraid of “separation of blood clots” with such treatment, but in case of exacerbation it should not be used.
But the bath is a completely different matter: with varicose veins, thrombophlebitis of the lower extremities or post-thrombotic disease, it is very dangerous. Any thermal stress can provoke the formation of blood clots in the deep veins, carried by the bloodstream, with all the ensuing consequences. Dehydration in the bath leads to “thickening” of the blood. Don't expose yourself to unnecessary risks. Varicose veins will not disappear from the bath, but thrombophlebitis may well occur.
Varicose veins treatment. Operative techniques, modern procedures
Second group
Methods for eliminating varicose veins of the lower extremities are surgical treatment. It should be noted that despite the rapid development of medicine, vascular surgery and phlebology in particular, the vast majority of public hospitals in our country still use highly traumatic operations (combined phlebectomy under anesthesia or spinal anesthesia) to treat varicose veins of the lower extremities in the sub- and decompensation stage ).
Classic (traditional) treatment of varicose veins
These technologies belong to classical venous surgery. Today they can hardly be called modern. In most cases, this is explained by the low cost of such operations compared to high-tech innovative interventions that require advanced equipment. However, in leading research centers and large private clinics, whose doctors have undergone internships with training in advanced European methods of treatment, they can offer patients innovative, low-traumatic methods, which would be more correctly called a procedure rather than an operation. Venefit™ RFO procedures and the Biolitec EVLT procedure are precisely such minimally invasive treatment of varicose veins
which do not require hospitalization, general or spinal anesthesia, skin incisions and long-term wearing of compression stockings in the postoperative period.
Radiofrequency generator for performing RFO procedure Venefit™
Laser generator for performing EVLO procedure Biolitec
Modern surgery for varicose veins means minimal surgical trauma, good and fast medical effect, quick rehabilitation and no relapse of the disease.
Creams and gels for varicose veins
Despite the high effectiveness promoted by sellers and manufacturers, creams and gels do not bring relief from varicose veins and dilated veins do not disappear from them. At the initial stage of venous insufficiency, the doctors conducting the consultation do not strongly object to the use of these supposedly “phlebotropic” drugs, since rubbing them acts like a light massage and promotes venous outflow, and has a calming effect on the skin and walls of blood vessels. In advanced forms of venous insufficiency, these creams and ointments can cause dermatitis and allergization, and are therefore very harmful. Gel "Lioton" and other heparin agents are used in the development of acute thrombophlebitis and help to subside the inflammatory process, but varicose veins do not disappear from them. Shamanic products like “Sophia with leeches” have become very popular thanks to proper advertising with beautiful women’s legs, but they have no relation to medicines, to women, or even to leeches and one can’t expect any sense from them. And also, regardless of the price, rating or well-known name, no drops will bring results, even if absolutely all the reviews talk about the drops as the best and inexpensive medications in the world, phlebotonics, which cure 100% of patients. The best solution would be to contact a good doctor who will prescribe comprehensive minimally invasive or drug treatment and correct your lifestyle.
Varicose veins treatment. Sclerotherapy (scleroobliteration)
Third group
treatment is sclerotherapy (scleroobliteration) of the veins of the lower extremities. This treatment technology is used in very different clinical situations - from the elimination of cosmetic vascular defects (reticular veins and spider veins) to sclerosis of large veins of the lower extremities, including the trunks of main varicose veins. Drugs used for sclerotherapy of the veins of the lower extremities are injected into the lumen of the vein using ultra-thin needles with a diameter of 30 G (if we are talking about spider veins), or a slightly larger diameter when sclerosing the veins of the lower extremities of large “caliber”. In any situation, no significant pain syndrome is observed during sclerotherapy. Drugs injected into the lumen of the vein for the purpose of obliterating its lumen can be either liquid consistency or in the form of fine foam (Foam-Form). The Foam-Form method of scleroobliteration of the veins of the lower extremities is carried out by a phlebologist to remove large varicose veins, which allows the procedure to be carried out most effectively.
Sclerotherapy procedure for veins and spider veins
This technique appeared in our country relatively recently (about 10 years ago), but has established itself as objectively the best type of sclerotherapy for varicose veins of the lower extremities.
Today in Moscow, microsclerotherapy of spider veins and a foam form of scleroobliteration of varicose veins are used by a wide range of phlebologists in various medical phlebological centers. However, a seemingly simple procedure requires significant experience and specific skills to achieve a truly good result. Therefore, it is better to contact leading specialists at a good phlebological center in Moscow.
Master class on the treatment of varicose veins with sclerotherapy performed by Dr. Semenov A.Yu.
At the Moscow City Phlebological Center we use only the best technologies, and our specialists are experts in the modern treatment of varicose veins. The improvement of doctors' skills is measured in years and hundreds of successfully treated patients. Artyom Yurievich Semenov, leading specialist and head of the Moscow City Phlebological Center, is an international class phlebologist and a recognized European expert in the field of innovative technologies for the treatment of varicose veins.
The results of treatment of varicose veins using modern techniques at the Innovative Phlebological Center speak for themselves and some of them can be found on the page of my website:
Questions from patients about the use of venotonic drugs
Ninel from Moscow is interested: do you recommend tablets for the treatment of varicose veins?
Dear Ninel! Specialists at the Moscow City Phlebology Center use tablet forms of oral phlebotonic drugs in the complex treatment of varicose veins.
Ekaterina from Moscow asks: is it possible to cure varicose veins with pills?
Dear Ekaterina! It is impossible to cure varicose veins with pills alone. Modern treatment of venous pathology involves the use of venotonic drugs in the complex treatment of varicose veins, but not monotherapy with tablets.
Lyudmila from Moscow is interested in: what medications for varicose veins are best to use today?
Dear Lyudmila! In modern phlebological practice, the most proven effect in the treatment of venous pathology is possessed by drugs of the diosmin group and micronized purified flavonoid fraction.
Varvara from Moscow asks: is it possible to take pills for varicose veins after vein removal surgery?
Dear Varvara! The use of modern oral drugs of the venotonic group has a positive effect on the course of the postoperative period, in the absence of contraindications. Therefore, such therapy is recommended.
Consequences and complications of varicose veins
- thrombophlebitis;
- pulmonary embolism
(occurs unexpectedly, without any previous symptoms);
- trophic ulcers;
- bleeding from damaged veins;
- swelling of the legs, impaired blood supply to tissues, thickening and darkening of the skin, itching.
If signs of varicose veins appear, you should not delay visiting a phlebologist. The sooner the patient is examined, the higher the chance that the doctor will be able to treat varicose veins without pain and complications. Tablets, ointments and drugs can only give a temporary effect. Compression hosiery is an effective means of prevention. A phlebologist will help you choose the right type of knitwear and degree of compression.
The only way to get rid of varicose veins once and for all is through surgery. A carefully performed operation eliminates the possibility of relapse. The affected veins are removed or “glued together.” This is safe for the patient’s body, since no more than 5-10% of the blood flows through the saphenous veins, and the deep veins easily take on this load. There are traditional methods of surgical treatment of varicose veins and modern minimally invasive methods, which include:
- Radiofrequency obliteration (RFA/RFO)
- Sclerotherapy
- Miniphlebectomy
These methods are used by doctors at the Pirogov Clinic in St. Petersburg.
Which tablets for varicose veins are best to buy?
All 9 nominees in the rating demonstrate high quality, positive results, and a large percentage of positive reviews from customers. This raises the question, what pills to take for varicose veins and what is better to buy from the list presented? Experts insist on consulting a doctor, and also summarize the following review results:
- Detralex - good value for money, quality and effectiveness;
- Troxevasin is the most purchased drug, increasing local immunity;
- Aescusan is an effective drug for the prevention of thrombosis;
- Phlebodia – high safety, the best choice for pregnant women;
- Actovegin is an antihypoxant with metabolic properties;
- Glivenol is the most effective tablet for any stage of varicose veins.
It is possible to select effective medications against varicose veins only after examining the patient in a clinical setting. The individual characteristics of the body, concomitant disorders, existing symptoms, and age are taken into account. Self-medication with such a diagnosis is unacceptable, as it leads to serious complications.
Radiofrequency ablation (obliteration, RFA, RFO)
Treatment of varicose veins using radiofrequency equipment (RFA) is considered one of the most progressive techniques.
Laser treatment of veins in its medical and cosmetic effect approaches the characteristics of RFA, but loses for a number of reasons. Advantages of RFA over endovasal laser coagulation (EVLC)
- Radiofrequency equipment is modern and accurate, therefore it practically eliminates the possibility of medical error;
- After RFA, you need to wear compression stockings for 1-2 weeks. After EVLT – 4-6 weeks and additionally take anticoagulants;
- After EVLT, instruments are sterilized, so there is a risk of infection. RFA involves the use of disposable consumables;
- During EVLT, the structure of the optical fiber may be damaged (the distal fragment breaks off) in the lumen of the venous vessel, which requires its removal through open surgery through an incision.
The radiofrequency ablation method (obliteration, RFA, RFO) allows you to avoid:
— hospitalization in a medical institution;
— general anesthesia (anesthesia);
— surgical incisions and sutures;
- damage to nerve structures and lymphatic vessels.
How is the radiofrequency ablation procedure performed?
RFA of varicose veins is performed under ultrasound guidance. A thin, controlled catheter is inserted into the dilated vein (the trunk of the great or small saphenous vein) (usually through a puncture of the skin in the thigh or lower leg). After administering local anesthesia, a radiofrequency heating procedure is performed along the affected vein, causing the vein to shrink and “seal.” Thus, the channel where blood from the deep veins was “dumped” and where blood stagnation occurred is eliminated. Varicose convoluted venous tributaries are removed with special hooks through micropunctures, or a special drug is injected into the lumen of these tributaries - sclerosant, which subsequently causes them to “stick together”.
Watch the video “Radiofrequency obliteration of varicose veins in the Pirogov clinic.”
Advantages of RFA over other methods of treating varicose veins
- Minimally invasive surgery;
- Reliable and safe procedure;
- The operation is performed quickly (on average 60 minutes);
- Short rehabilitation period (on average – 1 week);
- The patient immediately returns to his normal lifestyle (no restrictions on movement);
- Aesthetic appearance (beautiful skin without varicose veins, scars and cicatrices);
- Effective treatment of varicose veins.
Which brand of tablets for varicose veins is better to choose?
The main indicator of the quality and effectiveness of any product is the manufacturer. Its reputation and operating principles can tell a lot about the product in absentia. Therefore, before starting a detailed review of drugs, get acquainted with pharmacological companies. The best pills for varicose veins were presented by:
- Servier (Detralex) is an international independent pharmaceutical company that was founded in France in 1954. Provides innovative medicines to treat over 100 million people worldwide. This is one of the foreign companies that have localized the production of medicines at their own enterprise in Russia.
- JSC Pharmaceutical Enterprise Obolenskoye (Venarus) - the company was founded in 1994 in Russia on the basis of the State Center for Applied Microbiology. Today, production capacity is increasing - over 600 million tablets and capsules annually. The product portfolio includes 91 names for the treatment of cardiovascular pathologies, gastrointestinal diseases, allergies and other areas.
- Laboratory Innotek International (Phlebodia) - the laboratory is part of the French group. We are talking about a family company founded back in 1913. It specializes in medical and parapharmaceutical products. Since 1995, representative offices have been operating in Russia.
- Novartis (Glivenol) is a group of companies that was founded in Switzerland in 1996 amid the merger of Ciba-Geigy and Sandoz. The group includes 6 brands - Pharma prescription and OTC over-the-counter drugs, Alcon for vision protection, Sandoz biostimulants and generics, Vaccines and Diagnostics test systems and vaccines, Animal Health veterinary products. It ranks second in the world in terms of activity and market share in Europe.
- Boehringer Ingelheim (Antistax) is a family-owned pharmaceutical company that was founded in 1885 in Germany. Today it is one of the top 20 leading global drug production companies. Representative offices operate in 142 countries, including Russia.
- CJSC "Canonpharma Production" (Diosmin) is a company of a new generation of Russian manufacturers, operating since 1998. Complies with modern quality standards and advanced trends in the development of the pharmaceutical market. Effective and safe medications are used to combat a wide range of diseases.
- Balkanpharma-Troyan (Troxevasin) is a Bulgarian company that is part of the international pharmaceutical holding Actavis. Founded in 1998. All manufactured drugs undergo clinical and laboratory tests before going on sale. There are over 40 items on the Russian market.
- Pharma Wernigerode GmbH (Eskuzan) is a German pharmaceutical company that was founded in 1903. Today it is considered one of the most important companies in East Germany. The product portfolio includes all forms of medicines certified according to European standards.
- Nycomed GmbH (Actovegin) is a German company that began its activities in 1874. In Russia, the first representative office was opened in 1993. Offers effective medicines for all areas of medicine. In terms of sales volume, it is among the 30 largest companies in the world.
The best tablets for lamblia
Surgical treatment options
They are divided into classical combined phlebectomy and modern minimally invasive methods of vein removal - EVLT - endovenous laser coagulation (obliteration) of veins, micro and miniphlebectomy.
Very often, combined phlebectomy (a combination of several types of interventions - crossectomy, stripping, removal of veins according to Narrat, Clapp, ligation of perforating veins through a mini-access) is performed under general anesthesia and hospitalization for several days. Long recovery after surgery. Low aesthetic result.
