Česky
Patients with arterial impairment include those who have difficulties caused by narrowing of the arteries, i.e. patients with ischemic disease - anemia of the lower limbs, with impairment of the carotid arteries, but also patients with difficulties caused by excessive dilatation of the arteries, so-called bulges. Patients with venous disorders are mostly those with varicose veins, i.e. varicose veins. And it is at this health problem that we stop. We asked MUDr. Jana Valešová, who practices in this specialized outpatient clinic at the Beroun hospital, a few questions.
Doctor, can you briefly tell us what varicose veins are and how they are caused?
Blood is drained from the lower limbs by two venous systems. Most of it through the main system, the deep venous system, and a smaller part through the superficial system. Between the two systems there are connections (perforators) which, when working properly, direct the flow of blood from the superficial to the deep.
Varicose veins (varicose veins) are one of the most common diseases of the vascular system and represent dilated, tortuous superficial veins, in which the wall thins, the veins dilate and the venous valves fail to close properly. As a result, the flow is reversed and blood flows from the deep to the superficial system, causing unpleasant discomforts such as swelling, tingling, burning, a feeling of tension in the lower limbs and cramps, often with worsening in the evening and at night, and can also lead to the deposition of dye in the skin, the formation of spots on the skin of the tibiae, prolonged irritation of the skin can also lead to eczema with itching and dry, cracking skin, and in extreme cases untreated varicose veins can lead to tibial ulceration. In addition, inflammation of the veins and their surroundings can occur, and when the skin thins, varicose veins can bother patients with repeated bleeding.
Is this disease widespread?
Yes, unfortunately around 20% of the population suffers from varicose veins and the incidence increases with age. Women are more likely to suffer from them than men. According to some statistics, this disease occurs to varying degrees in as many as 50-60% of adult women and 30-40% of adult men.
What influences their occurrence?
Unfortunately, the factors influencing the development of varicose veins are largely uncontrollable and include, but are not limited to, heredity, female gender or hormonal changes (pregnancy, hormonal treatment). Of the factors that we are able to influence, obesity, lifestyle (long periods of sitting or standing, little physical activity), smoking, exposure to high temperatures, etc.
What would you advise at least those who "suspect" that they will not avoid these health problems, or even already have some problems? Surely there is some prevention. Or is it simply not possible to prevent this health and aesthetic problem?
As part of prevention, we should include a varied diet with plenty of fibre. Vegetables and fruits are recommended, especially citrus fruits, legumes, buckwheat, whole grain breads, etc. Especially in summer and when there is more physical activity, we should think about drinking. Another important preventive measure is exercise. Suitable sports activities include cycling, swimming, running or walking, whereas some strength sports can lead to deterioration. It is ideal to include regular stretching of the legs. When resting, do not hesitate to give your feet the comfort of an elevated position. We can also add baths with alternating hot and cold water.
Unfortunately, quite a few people end up having to see a doctor after all. Can you briefly summarize the basic treatment methods?
If, despite all preventive measures, varicose veins do occur, then depending on their extent and difficulty, we select the most appropriate treatment method to successfully eliminate the varicose veins, improve the cosmetic appearance, eliminate subjective discomfort and prevent possible complications.
Treatment of varicose veins can be divided into conservative and surgical. Conservative methods include bandaging of the limbs or compression stockings and drugs that help to strengthen the venous wall, increase elasticity and improve the function of the venous valves. In more advanced stages, it is then necessary to resort to surgical treatment. This may consist of minor outpatient procedures such as sclerotherapy. In this procedure, a special substance is injected into the affected vein, which damages the vein from the inside, leading to its closure and sticking together. This treatment is often performed repeatedly over several sessions. In the case of more extensive involvement, the method of choice is surgery, in which the altered vein is removed according to the extent of its involvement.
How can patients make an appointment with you?
Like other outpatient clinics, at the outpatient services reception, or by phone at 311 745 272 or online from the website of the Rehabilitation Hospital Beroun.
