The disease, characterized by the formation of blood clots in the lumens of the veins of the legs and resulting in a violation of blood flow, is a thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities. The danger of the disease lies in the fact that a severed thrombus can clog the vein and close the bloodstream.
The causes of thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities
The immediate causes of thrombosis are:
- increased coagulability of blood;
- structural changes in the walls of blood vessels;
- slowing of blood flow in the veins.
Among the factors that negatively affect the state of human vessels:
- diseases associated with metabolic disorders;
- Cardiovascular, infectious and oncological diseases;
- pathology of the liver;
- severe injuries;
- cavitary surgery and joint surgery;
- overweight;
- pregnancy, childbirth;
- age (after 40 years, the risk of blood clots increases every year);
- smoking;
- taking certain medicines, incl. of contraceptive pills.
Also, experts warn: a low-activity lifestyle, a constant stay in a monotonous position (for example, sitting at the computer or standing behind the counter) and prolonged bed rest promote the violation of blood flow, and, therefore, create conditions for the development of thrombosis.
Symptoms of thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities
Manifestations of the disease depend on which veins are damaged. Possible signs of thrombosis are:
- edematous phenomena in the lower limbs;
- heaviness and cramps in the legs ;
- sensation of heat and redness of the skin in the affected area;
- pain in the legs;
- a slight increase in temperature.
Thrombosis of superficial veins of the lower extremities (thrombophlebitis) is easy to determine from the pain sensations localized in the vein region. The thrombosis of the internal veins of the lower limbs often develops asymptomatically, causing serious complications, up to a lethal outcome.
Prevention and treatment of venous thrombosis of the lower extremities
The main principle of preventing thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities is the prevention of stagnation of blood in the veins of the legs. Prevention includes:
- balanced mode of rest-activity;
- adequate physical activity;
- contrasting foot baths;
- wearing comfortable shoes;
- adherence to dietary rules (refusal from acute and salty foods, consumption of foods rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, especially seafood).
Therapy of acute thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities is aimed at:
- prevention of pulmonary embolism;
- decreased blood clotting;
- restoration of normal blood flow;
- preventing the movement of a blood clot.
Diagnosed thrombosis of the subcutaneous and deep veins of the lower extremities is to be treated solely on the advice of a doctor and under strict medical supervision. Self-medication can lead to complication of the situation and irreparable health loss.
Therapy includes the use of:
- anesthetics ( Diclofenac , Aertal, etc.);
- phlebotonics (Ginkor forte, Troxevasin, etc.);
- antibacterial drugs;
- angioprotectors.
In deep vein thrombosis, anticoagulant therapy is prescribed - intravenous administration of heparin and other thrombolytic drugs. After 2-3 days, indirect anticoagulants are added (Hirudin and his counterparts).
Of great importance are:
- performed elastic compression;
- compliance with the regime of physical activity.
Severe form of thrombosis requires hospital stay, and if a floating thrombus is detected, it is recommended to perform one of the types of surgery:
- removal of thrombus;
- ligation of veins;
- the imposition of a shunt;
- stitching of the vein;
- installation of a cava filter.