Inaction in winter launches the heir!

SAFAKNA TURKEY – Due to cold weather, rain and snowfall, the intensity of our activities is decreasing day by day. Most of us limit our social activities during the winter months and prefer to stay at home. However, a sedentary lifestyle and the extra weight that it brings can provoke many diseases; such as “varicose veins” developing in the legs! Because when we are inactive, the valves cannot perform their functions due to the deterioration of the vascular structure. The resulting pressure causes the veins to dilate and, over time, the formation of varicose veins. Although varicose veins are seen as an aesthetic problem, they can cause complaints such as cramps, pain, numbness, tingling, and swelling, and more importantly, non-healing wounds, ulcers, and blood clots if left untreated. Therefore, early treatment of varicose veins is of great importance.

More common in women

Today, varicose veins are one of the most common vascular diseases. Although there is no exact figure, it is believed that 15 million people in our country suffer from this disease to some extent. Again, if in our country varicose veins are diagnosed in 10-15 percent of men, then in women this figure rises to 20-25 percent. The reason why varicose veins are more common in women is hormonal changes, especially as a result of pregnancy or birth control pills.

Successful Treatment Results

Treatment of varicose veins is divided into two groups: intervention in the “superficial capillaries” and “deep veins”. Today, very successful results are obtained from the treatment of varicose veins. Cardiovascular Specialist Dr. Ayça Ozgen explains the methods used in the treatment of varicose veins as follows: “Sclerotherapy, known as superficial capillary foam treatment, is the injection of drugs into a vein using a needle. After this procedure, radiofrequency exposure is applied to the remaining and thinner capillaries with a needle. After treatment, patients can get rid of the spidery appearance that appears on their legs. For deep vein insufficiency, closed varicose vein surgery or open varicose vein surgery with radiofrequency is used according to the classification of varicose veins and the degree of venous insufficiency of the patient. After the operation, the appearance of the legs improves and the problems caused by varicose veins, such as pain, cramps and swelling, are eliminated.

7 effective measures against varicose veins!

Cardiovascular Specialist Dr. Ayça Ozgen explains the precautions against varicose veins as follows: Train your leg muscles: The work of the leg muscles speeds up the blood flow in the veins, preventing them from dilating. Therefore, move more, walk regularly and exercise if possible.

Maintain your ideal weight by eating healthy. Since weight gain accelerates the development of varicose veins, it is important to maintain an ideal weight. Also, eat plant-based, high-fiber foods regularly to avoid constipation, which can lead to varicose veins. Make it a habit to drink 2-2.5 liters of water a day.

Do not consume too much salt: salt increases swelling in the body and aggravates complaints caused by varicose veins. Make sure your salt intake does not exceed 5 grams per day.

Avoid Tight Clothing: Choose as many loose clothing as possible, avoid over tightening the belt as tight clothing impairs blood circulation.

Take a break every 35-40 minutes: inactivity can lead to varicose veins as a result of slowing blood flow in the veins. If you work at a desk, make it a habit to move for at least 30-45 minutes, get up and walk around. If you are standing, move your legs and feet frequently to help return blood from your legs to your heart.

Support your legs with a pillow: Elevate your legs above heart level with a pillow while you rest to slow circulation and prevent varicose veins.

Avoid hot environments: Hot air and water can cause veins to dilate. Therefore, avoid hot places such as saunas, Turkish baths and spas. It is also recommended to take a bath with warm water as much as possible.