Ayurvedic Treatment for Varicose Veins: Heal Veins Naturally

VARICOSE VEINS

 Varicose Veins are large, swollen, bulging veins that appear on the legs and feet. This happens when the valves in the veins do not work properly, hence the blood does not flow effectively. 

GENERAL RISK FACTORS:

·       Menopause

·       Pregnancy

·       Above 50 years, individuals may experience symptoms of varicose veins more frequently.

·       Standing for long periods

·       Family history of varicose veins

·       Obesity

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

·       No pain in the majority of cases

·       Veins look twisted, swollen, and lumpy, which are common symptoms of varicose veins.

·       Veins will be blue or purple in color

·       Leg ache

·       Heaviness of legs at night time

·       Swollen ankles

·       Leg cramps can be one of the symptoms of varicose veins. 

VARICOSE VEIN IN PREGNANCY:

During pregnancy, women are much more likely to develop varicose veins. Pregnant women have more blood in their bodies to support the growth of the baby, which gives extra pressure to the circulatory system and may lead to symptoms of varicose veins. As the uterus grows, there is even more pressure in the pelvic area, which can affect blood flow and contribute to varicose veins. Hormonal changes during this time are also a reason for the swelling of the veins.

HOW CAN VARICOSE VEINS BE PREVENTED?

·       Avoid standing still for too long

·       Maintaining a healthy body weight

·       Regular exercise and walking

·       Sleeping with a raised foot with the help of a pillow

INVESTIGATIONS

·       Duplex/Color Doppler scan

·       Venography

·       Plethysmography

MANAGEMENT

 Treatments might not be necessary if there are no symptoms of varicose veins. Treatment is required in cases where there are symptoms like pain, discomfort, skin discoloration, or swelling.

1.     CONSERVATIVE MANAGEMENT:

·       COMPRESSION STOCKINGS

Helps to squeeze the patient’s leg and improves circulation. These stockings help in reducing pain, discomfort, and swelling.

·       Avoidance of prolonged standing

·       Limb kept above the level of the head

·       Bicycling in the air helps to strengthen the calf muscles.

2.     SURGICAL INTERVENTION

·       LIGATION

·       LIGATION WITH STRIPPING

·       SCLEROTHERAPY is a common treatment for varicose veins.

Chemical is injected through the veins, which further helps in scarring and closes them.

3.     OTHER PROCEDURES

Includes Radiofrequency Ablation, Endovenous laser treatment, Trans illuminated powered phlebectomy

SIRAJA GRANTHI – AYURVEDIC INTERVENTION

In Ayurveda, Varicose Veins can be correlated to SIRAJA GRANTHI. 

WHAT ARE THE ETIOLOGY/NIDANA OF SIRAJA GRANTHI?

·       Abalasya Vyayamajate – Excessive exercise by a person who is weak. This increases the Vata dosha and hence causes compression(sampeedya) and drying up(visoshya).

·       Ruksha Ahara- Regular consumption of stale and dry food

·       Athapa Sevana – Excessive walking in sunlight

·       Amboh Avagahath – Sudden washing of legs in water after exposure to sunlight

SYMPTOMS/LAKSHANA:

·       Sampeedya – Dull aching pain

·       Samkochya- Elongated

·       Unnatha – Dilated

·       Sopham - Swelling

TREATMENT

·       Jaloukavachara – Leech Therapy

·       Siravydha – Venesection/Blood Letting

·       Veshtana -  Bndanging/Wrapping of cloth

·       Abhyanga – Oil Massage

·       Udwartana – Powder Massage