If you suffer from varicose veins, don't be embarrassed, you may not be alone. Statistics indicate that about 35% of the world's population faces the same problem. In the following lines, we will discuss the most important treatment methods, whether at home or using herbs, through the Dalili Medical website. About 20% of adults suffer from this condition, which necessitates searching for natural treatments at home.

**: What are varicose veins?**

 

**A:** Varicose veins are a condition in which some veins swell and dilate, especially in the legs. Veins are the blood vessels responsible for returning blood to the heart, and they appear in different forms, starting from superficial spider veins that do not cause pain, to large, swollen and prominent veins that become more visible with prolonged standing, and may cause leg pain, which is known as varicose veins.

: Is there a treatment for varicose veins without the need for surgery?

 

: Yes, there are options to treat varicose veins without resorting to surgery. Few patients currently require surgery to treat this condition, as most spider veins can be removed with injections or skin lasers. In the case of a dilated main vein (saphenous vein) and the presence of blood reflux or leakage in the valves within the vein, treatment is done through cauterization using a laser catheter or radiofrequency, a technique that completely closes the vein instead of surgical excision, which was previously used.

For patients with varicose veins with mild symptoms who prefer to avoid surgical interventions, conservative treatment can be followed, which includes wearing a medical compression stocking to reduce the dilation of the veins and capillaries, in addition to taking some medications that strengthen the walls of the veins.

: How can I know the appropriate type of treatment for my varicose veins?

 

A: To answer this question, you should consult a doctor who specializes in treating varicose veins or a vascular doctor. During the examination, the doctor will determine the type of varicose veins you have, whether they are superficial spider veins, dilated main veins, varicose veins that cause pain, or varicose veins accompanied by complications such as skin ulcers. After that, an ultrasound (duplex/Doppler) will be performed to assess whether there is venous reflux and to ensure that there are no clots or inflammations in the superficial veins. Based on the results of the clinical examination and duplex examination, the most appropriate treatment for your condition can be determined.

: Why is laser or radiofrequency treatment preferred over surgery?

 

: Laser or radiofrequency treatment of varicose veins is preferred for several reasons, including:

- Treatment can be performed under local anesthesia, which reduces the risks of general anesthesia.

- The treatment does not leave any wounds, scars or bruises on the skin.

- The pain resulting from laser catheter treatment is much less compared to the pain of surgery.

- The recovery period is easier and more comfortable compared to surgery.

- Returning to work and practicing daily activities is much faster after laser catheter treatment than after surgery.

The possibility of varicose veins returning after treatment with laser catheter is less than after surgery. Therefore, it is preferable to resort to laser or radiofrequency treatment of varicose veins. All these factors make treating varicose veins with laser catheter a comfortable option, as it does not cause any inconvenience or discomfort to the patient, making him feel as if he did not undergo a surgical procedure in the traditional sense.

: What should I do on the day of treating varicose veins with catheter, laser or radiofrequency?

 

A: You must come at the appointment specified by the doctor, bringing all the required tests and x-rays. It is necessary to fast from food for 6 hours, and from water for 2 hours. You will be called for the procedure, which will take between 30 to 60 minutes. After that, your leg will be tied with bandages, and you will be asked to walk a little, and you can leave after about half an hour. If the procedure is performed under general or partial anesthesia, you will remain in your room for 2 to 4 hours until you regain consciousness, and then you will also be asked to walk a little before leaving the hospital after reassuring your condition.

: What are the potential complications or problems of treating varicose veins with laser?

 

A: Treating varicose veins with laser catheter or radiofrequency is considered one of the safest treatment methods. However, some complications may occur in some cases, such as phlebitis, which leads to redness and pain in the vein path. Some blue bruises may also appear temporarily, which do not last more than two weeks. Rare cases of vein thrombosis have been recorded, but it should be noted that these rare complications may also occur after surgery, but at a higher rate.

: Can varicose veins be treated with injections?

 

A: Treatment of varicose veins with injections depends on using a very thin needle to inject a drug that causes the walls of the vein to stick together, which prevents blood flow in it, and thus the vein disappears from under the skin. This type of treatment is only suitable for small veins under the skin, and is not suitable for large varicose veins that resemble hoses, nor is it suitable for fine red capillaries that require laser treatment.

It is important to ensure that there are no varicose veins in the main veins using duplex rays, as they must be treated first before resorting to varicose vein injections or laser treatment, otherwise the chances of their return will be very high.

It is worth noting that treating varicose veins with injections is a cosmetic treatment and does not treat pain, swelling or any other symptoms in the leg, as these symptoms require different treatment methods.

: What is the treatment of varicose veins using foam injections?

 

: Treating varicose veins with foam injections is a technique that relies on injection with the addition of a percentage of air, which makes the material used resemble foam. This method helps to hide someRelatively large veins that are difficult to hide with traditional injections.

: Are there any complications after treating varicose veins with foam injections?

 

A: Although this procedure is completely safe, like any other medical treatment, some complications or side effects may occur. Among these symptoms, inflammation of the veins can occur, which appears in the form of redness of the skin and pain, and pigmentation (change in skin color) may also occur. In rare cases, clots may form in the superficial veins.

It is important for the patient to know that treating varicose veins with injections can hide small veins and capillaries by 70-95%, and it is difficult to achieve 100%. Also, the success of the injection in a certain area does not prevent the appearance of veins in other areas, as the body that tends to form these capillaries may later appear in new capillaries.

: Do I need anesthesia to perform laser treatment for varicose veins?

 

: The answer varies depending on the type of laser treatment. Treating capillaries using a skin laser does not require any type of anesthesia. As for treating major veins using laser catheter (or radiofrequency), it requires anesthesia, either local injected into the thigh, or partial or general anesthesia. The type of anesthesia is determined based on several factors, including:

- The patient's desire.

- The need to perform any other intervention in addition to laser catheter treatment.

- Treatment of one or both legs.

- The presence of any medical conditions that prevent the use of any of the aforementioned types of anesthesia.

Most patients can receive treatment for varicose veins under local anesthesia, which is characterized by the patient not being exposed to any narcotic drugs or their complications, and he can move immediately and go home. While in cases of partial or general anesthesia, it requires a recovery period in the room for about two hours before the patient can move and leave. On the other hand, the cost of local anesthesia is lower, due to the lack of its supplies and devices, and the lack of the need to open an equipped operating room, as the intervention can be performed in a room dedicated to laser catheterization at a lower cost than traditional operating rooms.

Treating varicose veins with laser under local anesthesia is a unique experience, as the patient does not feel that he has undergone surgery, but rather as if he is undergoing an examination or x-ray, which reduces the anxiety associated with operating rooms. After the procedure, he can move immediately and meet his family and leave with them without delay.

As for treating varicose veins with laser under general anesthesia, it is suitable for patients who feel afraid and want to sleep during the procedure, or for those who need another surgical procedure in addition to laser treatment.

: What should I do after treating varicose veins with laser? When can I move? When can I return to work?

 

: After treating varicose veins with laser, you will find that your leg is tied with compression bandages to ensure that the treated vein is completely closed. You must keep these bandages on for 4 to 7 days, after which they are replaced with a medical compression stocking that lasts for another 3 weeks. You are allowed to move immediately, and it is preferable to do so to stimulate blood circulation, so there is no justification for staying in bed.

You can return to work after a period of one to two weeks, during which the patient may feel a tightness in the thigh, which is similar to a tight rope. There are medications that can be taken to relieve this feeling, but it is preferable to postpone returning to work during this period to avoid any pain or tightness.

: Will varicose veins return after treatment?

 

A: The non-recurrence of varicose veins after treatment depends on the choice of the appropriate treatment for the patient, in addition to the availability of the necessary experience and skill. In the past, the return of varicose veins was more common after traditional vein removal surgeries, due to technical reasons during the operation or due to the surgical wound that may lead to the regrowth of some veins. However, the use of techniques such as laser catheterization or radiofrequency, with the ability to monitor the vein using duplex television rays during treatment, reduces the possibility of varicose veins returning, as there are no wounds. International studies indicate that the rate of varicose veins returning after laser or radiofrequency treatment does not exceed 2-3%. However, the patient's commitment to a healthy lifestyle, maintaining an appropriate weight, and exercising a reasonable amount of movement remains important.

Risks of Neglecting Varicose Veins Treatment

Neglecting varicose veins treatment can lead to a number of serious complications, including:

- Blood clots in the leg.

- Increased risk of bleeding in the leg, especially when exposed to an injury or wound.

- Feeling heaviness in the foot and difficulty moving.

- Swelling of the feet with a feeling of itching.

- Leg pain.

- The appearance of painful ulcers in the legs.

Can walking treat varicose veins?

 

In addition to questions about treating varicose veins, many people wonder whether walking contributes to improving the condition of the legs.

The answer is yes, walking is considered beneficial in the case of varicose veins.

Although there are many exercises that can be practiced to treat varicose veins, walking is one of the easiest options available.

The benefits of walking include:

- Improving blood circulation.

- Improving balance, which reduces the risk of falling.

- Improving blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes.

- Strengthening muscles and joints, which reduces the risk of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other forms of joint diseases.

- Walkig is also considered a light activity, as it does not put extra pressure on the legs, which helps strengthen the feet without negatively affecting the veins.

**Do varicose veins disappear on their own?**

 

If you suffer from varicose veins, you probably have many questions, such as how to treat them, what causes them, or ways to get rid of them.

You may also wonder if varicose veins go away on their own or if they need treatment.

 

Vein valve damage is one of theThe main reasons for the appearance of varicose veins. When these valves are damaged, they may not be able to repair themselves, which means that the varicose veins will not disappear on their own. However, they may become less noticeable, and you may notice that the symptoms disappear temporarily at times, especially if you lose weight or increase your level of physical activity.

However, symptoms are likely to return over time.

**Do varicose veins affect heart health?**

 

Many people wonder if varicose veins affect heart health.

For those who do not know, varicose veins are enlarged and twisted veins that usually appear in the lower part of the body. Although varicose veins indicate a problem with blood circulation, they do not usually pose a risk to heart health.

The reason for this is that the heart works independently of these veins.

**Treatment of varicose veins at home**

Compression stockings, available at most pharmacies, can be used, as they work to compress the legs, which helps the muscles and veins push blood towards the heart.

Plant extracts can help relieve leg pain, heaviness, and itching in people with chronic venous insufficiency, a major cause of varicose veins. These extracts and essential oils should be diluted in carrier oils before being used topically or in an aromatherapy diffuser.

As for dietary changes, eating foods rich in potassium, such as almonds and pistachios, can help reduce water retention in the body, which can help relieve varicose veins. On the other hand, salty or sodium-rich foods lead to water retention, so eating foods rich in potassium can have a positive effect in this regard.

Foods rich in potassium include:

- Almonds and pistachios

- Lentils and white beans

- Potatoes

- Leafy greens

- Some types of fish, such as salmon and tuna

Foods rich in fiber help promote bowel movements and prevent constipation, which is important because stress can worsen valve damage. Foods rich in fiber include:

- Nuts, seeds, and legumes

- Oats, wheat, and flax seeds

- Whole grain foods

Eating more foods that contain flavonoids can also help reduce varicose veins. These foods include:

- Vegetables such as onions, peppers, spinach, and broccoli

- Citrus fruits, grapes, cherries, apples, and berries

- Cocoa

- Garlic

Choosing loose clothing can help improve blood flow, as wearing tight clothing can impede blood circulation. By wearing non-restrictive clothing, a person can notice an improvement in blood flow to the lower body. Choosing flat shoes instead of high heels can also help treat the problem of varicose veins in the legs.

It is best to keep your legs elevated, preferably at the same level as the heart or above, which helps improve blood circulation. This action reduces pressure on the leg veins and gravity helps the blood flow smoothly towards the heart.

A person should try to keep their legs elevated if they are going to be sitting for long periods, such as while working or relaxing.

Massage is also an effective method, as gently massaging the affected areas can help promote blood flow through the veins. Anyone can use gentle massage oils or moisturizers to achieve the best results. It is important to avoid direct pressure on the veins, as this can damage sensitive tissue.

Keep moving and avoid sitting for long periods. If a person has to sit for long periods while working, they should try to get up and move around or change their position frequently to maintain good blood flow. It is also preferable to avoid sitting with their legs crossed, as this can impede blood flow to the legs and feet, which can worsen circulation problems.

**Get rid of varicose veins in the legs naturally**

 

**Treatment of varicose veins with ginger and oats:**

Put a quarter cup of oats in a cup of boiling water and leave for 15 minutes. Then, remove the oats from the water and add a quarter cup of ground ginger, 3 tablespoons of ginger oil, and a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar. Mix the ingredients well until they are homogeneous, then apply the mixture to the affected area with varicose veins. Leave the mixture on the area for at least 20 minutes, then wash it off. This process can be repeated weekly until the desired results are achieved.

**Treatment of varicose veins with olive oil**

You can mix equal amounts of olive oil and vitamin E oil, then heat the mixture slightly. After that, massage the veins with warm oil for several minutes. It is preferable to repeat this process twice daily for a period ranging from one to two months.

Please note that this recipe may help reduce the symptoms of varicose veins, but it is not a substitute for consulting a specialist doctor.

**Treatment of varicose veins with apple cider vinegar**

Apple cider vinegar is an effective treatment for varicose veins, as it helps improve blood flow and reduce swelling in the body. Apple cider vinegar contains acidic substances that help enhance the process of pumping blood from the heart to the veins. It is recommended to apply vinegar to the varicose veins area and massage it gently twice daily to relieve symptoms.

**Treatment of varicose veins with grape leaves**

Grape leaves are used to treat varicose veins, as they contain flavonoids and multiple antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in blood vessels and strengthen their walls.

Boil about four cups of grape leaves, then leave them to cool for a quarter of an hour. After that, put the leaves in a pot and immerse the feet in them for five minutes. The legs can also be massaged with pure grape seed oil for a few minutes, then washed.

In addition, grape seed extract supplements can be used to help relieve varicose veins. However, caution should be exercised if you are taking medications toIf you have blood thinning or any conditions that increase blood fluidity, you should consult your doctor before using it.

Herbs can be used to treat varicose veins in cases where the varicose veins are small, but if the varicose veins are large and clearly visible and you have not achieved results from herbal treatment, you may need other options.

**Apple Cider Vinegar**: Apply undiluted apple cider vinegar to the skin over the varicose veins and gently massage the area. It is preferable to do this daily before bed and again in the morning. Continue this treatment for a few months to reduce the size of the varicose veins.

**Apple Cider Vinegar Drink**: Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a cup of water and stir well. It is recommended to drink this mixture twice a day for at least a month to see positive results.

**Cayenne Pepper**: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder to a cup of hot water and mix well.

Take this mixture three times a day for a month or two.

To prepare the mixture, chop six cloves of garlic and place them in a clean glass jar. Then extract the juice of three oranges and add it to the jar, in addition to two tablespoons of olive oil.

Leave the mixture for 12 hours, then shake the jar. After that, put a few drops of the solution on your fingers and massage the inflamed veins in a circular motion for 15 minutes.

Wrap the area with a cotton cloth and leave it overnight, and repeat this process daily for several months. It is also preferable to include fresh garlic in your diet.

Butcher's broom is very effective in relieving the pain and discomfort caused by varicose veins, as this herb contains compounds known as ruscogenins that help reduce inflammation and narrow the veins thanks to their anti-inflammatory and anti-elastostatic properties.

You can take 100 mg of butcher's broom supplements three times a day. These supplements are made from the roots and seeds of the plant, and contain vitamins B and C, in addition to calcium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, selenium, silicon and zinc.

**Witch hazel**: Soak a cloth in witch hazel and place it on the affected area, and repeat this two or three times a day for a month or two.

**Alternative**: Fill a tub with lukewarm water and add 10 to 20 drops of distilled witch hazel. Soak your legs in the solution for at least 15 minutes, then rinse your legs with clean water and pat dry. Follow this treatment once daily for a month or two.

**Horse Chestnut Seeds**: Apply the gel externally to the affected area twice daily. With regular use, it can help significantly reduce leg pain and swelling.

Horse chestnut supplements can be taken, with the most common dosage being 300 mg twice daily.

Do not consume horse chestnut raw, as it contains high amounts of a toxic compound known as esculin.

To make a parsley solution, boil a handful of freshly chopped parsley in a cup of water for five minutes. Then, remove from the heat, cover, and let it cool until lukewarm. Once cool, strain the solution and add one drop each of rose oil and essential oils.

Place the solution in the refrigerator for a few minutes, then use a cotton ball to apply it to the affected area. Repeat this process daily for several months to get positive results, and try to eat raw parsley as much as possible.

**Grape Leaves Treatment:**

Boil one cup of grape leaves in four cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes. After that, leave it to soak for a few minutes until it becomes warm. Pour the solution into a bucket and soak your feet in it for five minutes, then move to another bucket containing cold water for 10 seconds. Repeat this process three or four times, ending with soaking your feet in cold water. After that, massage your legs with castor oil in an upward direction, then raise your legs for a few minutes.

**Marigold Treatment:**

Boil one cup of marigold flowers in four cups of water for five minutes. After that, soak a cotton cloth in the solution and place it on the affected area. Leave it until it cools completely and repeat the process several times a day for a few months until you notice improvement. You can also eat fresh marigold petals.

**Fighting varicose veins with vitamins:**

A daily dose of vitamins can provide an easy solution to the problem of varicose veins. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, while other vitamins such as B and E can help. It is preferable to visit a doctor or specialist to evaluate the condition of varicose veins, as a healthcare provider or pharmacist can recommend the best high-quality vitamins suitable for you.

Olive oil has effective properties in reducing inflammation and stimulating blood circulation, making it a natural option for treating varicose veins. It can be used with vitamin E by massaging the affected area.

Varicose veins can also be treated with lemon by preparing a natural ointment at home to expand the veins naturally.

**Lemon ointment ingredients for treating varicose veins:**

- 10 cloves of garlic

- Juice of one lemon

- A cup of olive oil (200 ml)

- Half a cup of aloe vera gel (100 ml)

- 20 drops of rosemary essential oil

**How ​​to prepare lemon ointment for treating varicose veins**

 

To prepare the ointment, peel the garlic and chop the cloves, then squeeze the lemon. Put all the ingredients in a glass jar with the olive oil, then shake them well to mix. Close the jar tightly and leave it in a dark place for 21 days. After this period is over, filter the liquid to remove the garlic, and you can dispose of it. Add aloe vera gel to the oil and mix them well until you get a suitable consistency for the ointment, then add rosemary essential oil to improve the smell.

**How ​​to use:** Before going to bed, apply the ointment to the varicose veins in the affected areas, and cover them with a bandage or cloth. If the smell is not bothersome, you can repeat this in the morning as well. This treatment is effective if you use it regularly.

Regularity, as it helps prevent the appearance of varicose veins and improves the condition of spider veins.

**Ginger and Vitamin E mixture:** You can empty a vitamin E capsule into half a spoon of ginger powder, then massage the varicose veins with the mixture at night.

**Ginger oil:** Using ginger oil helps improve blood circulation and reduces clumps.

**Onions:** Eating onions daily enhances blood flow.

Garlic has an effect similar to antibiotics, and can be mashed and mixed with lemon juice and consumed in the evening.

As for rosemary, soaking it is considered beneficial for varicose vein patients, as it is used in the manufacture of special medications for it.

To prepare the clove, olive oil and garlic mixture, mix a spoonful of clove powder with three cloves of garlic and a quarter cup of olive oil. Place the mixture in a tightly sealed container inside a pot containing hot water to heat it, then stir well and filter. This mixture is used as a night ointment, and kept in the refrigerator.

Horse chestnut contains seeds and leaves that contain compounds that may help relieve some symptoms of varicose veins, such as:

- Foot pain.

- Swelling.

- Feeling of heaviness.

- Itchy skin.

**How ​​to use:** This herb and its derivatives are available in several forms, such as oral nutritional supplements and topical gel extracted from horse chestnut seed oil. It is necessary to consult a doctor before taking any type of nutritional supplements.

**Castor oil application:** The oil is heated in a warm water bath, then the legs and feet are applied twice daily.

**Centella (Gutukola) herb:** It contributes to supporting the processes of producing and transporting red blood cells in the circulatory system. It also helps reduce the accumulation of fat on the walls of blood vessels and reduce their thickness, which may enhance the strength of blood circulation.

It also works to reduce inflammation and fluid leakage in the affected area, in addition to reducing the anxiety that the patient may feel, which is positively reflected in the functions of blood vessels.

**How ​​to use:** You can drink juice made from gotu kola leaves or drink tea made from gotu kola.

**Taking gotu kola supplements**

As with any other herbal recipe, it is best to consult a doctor before using gotu kola in any form.

**Using grape seed extract**

Grape seeds contain a group of substances and nutrients that may have a positive effect on varicose veins, such as vitamin E, flavonoids, and proanthocyanin. These substances can contribute to:

- Reducing the severity of varicose vein symptoms.

- Improving the overall health of the blood vessels in the body.

**How ​​to use**

 

Grape seed supplements can be taken orally after consulting a doctor.

### Exercises to treat varicose veins

Swimming is one of the best exercises that help treat varicose veins, as the water creates additional pressure on the leg muscles during exercise, which enhances blood flow more effectively.

**Pedal exercises** are a common exercise to treat varicose veins, as they simulate the movement of a bicycle pedal in the air. You can do this exercise while lying on the bed, it is preferable to do it about 30 times and repeat it as many times as desired, with the need to take breaks between sessions. If you are a beginner, you can start with a smaller number of repetitions and gradually increase it.

**Cycling** is an exercise similar to the previous one, and it is very beneficial for the body in general, especially for the legs.

Make going out to the park or shopping daily while riding a bike a habit for you, as you will exercise without feeling it. You can do this with a friend or family member. If you prefer to stay at home, you can use a stationary bike similar to a regular bike.

To stretch the legs, lie on a mat or bed and raise your right leg, then stretch it and make clockwise movements. Repeat this exercise 20 times, then move to the other leg and repeat the same movements but in the opposite direction.

As for the heel exercises, they are similar to the previous exercises and are considered useful for treating varicose veins and cramps. If you suffer from cramps in your foot muscles, you can do this exercise every night before bed or in the morning after waking up, and you can do it while sitting.

First, support your heels on the floor and raise the tips of your feet, then relax the tips of your feet and raise your heels. Repeat this exercise 20 to 30 times.

When walking or running, pressure is applied to the soles of your feet, which helps increase your heart rate and improve blood circulation.

The toe flexion exercise is similar to the previous exercise and is considered effective in treating varicose veins. It helps improve venous blood flow and tones the leg muscles. To perform this exercise, lie on your bed or on a mat on the floor and stretch your legs, then bend your toes forward and backward. Repeat this movement 20 times for each leg.

Walking on your toes or on your heels helps to tighten the muscles and prevent cramps. You can stay in the same place or move on the tips of your toes or heels. Repeat this exercise several times, taking breaks between each set.

The lunge exercise is effective in strengthening the different muscle groups in the feet and legs. When these muscles are strong and healthy, they help maintain proper blood flow.

You can shake your feet while sitting or standing, by moving them back and forth from heel to toe. You can do this at any time and in any position, and it is also useful if your health conditions prevent you from practicing other types of exercise.

As for yoga, there are many positions that raise your feet above the level of the heart. Yoga also helps to tighten the deep muscles in the legs and hamstrings, which enhances the effectiveness of the vein valves. Among the useful positions are: stretching positions, and the dog facing the back

In the workplace, if your work requires you to sit for long periods behind a desk, doing some simple stretching exercises can help prevent varicose veins. Working in closed spaces often requires sitting or standing for long periods without moving, which increases the likelihood of obesity and weight gain, in addition to unwanted changes in the spine and vascular imbalances.

1. Extend the feet forward and tighten them.

2. Bend the ankle and move it so that the angle between the bottom of the foot and the leg becomes less than 90 degrees, and stay in this position for 10 seconds.

3. When lying on your back, it is recommended to pull the toes and pull them towards the floor.

4. After that, try to extend and move the foot in reverse so that the angle between the bottom of the foot and the leg becomes more than 90 degrees.

5. Repeat the previous movements 10 times in steps 2 and 3.

As for transportation, it is recommended to stop every two hours while traveling, and walk for a few seconds. It is also preferable when traveling by car or plane, to do simple exercises while sitting.