Search Results for: varicose veins

The veins that are enlarged, twisted or engorged are known as varicose veins. Varicose veins can develop in any part of the body but most commonly appear in the legs and feet. Varicose veins in the legs develop as a result of pooling of blood due to improper functioning of valves in the veins of the legs. Varicose veins can be well-treated with natural medicines. The top homeopathic medicine for varicose veins includes natural medicines like Hamamelis Virginiana, Pulsatilla Nigricans, and Calcarea Flour.               

Homeopathy for Varicose Veins

The conventional treatment for varicose veins usually involves techniques like sclerotherapy, laser surgery, micro sclerotherapy, endoscopic vein surgery and endovenous ablation therapy.

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a liquid or foam through a chemical injection to redirect the blood to a healthier vein. Microsclerotherapy is a similar procedure.

Laser Surgery employs the use of light energy to block off a vein.

Endoscopic Vein Surgery uses a small scope with a light that is inserted into the vein through a small incision to block it off.

Endovenous Ablation Therapy uses radiofrequency waves and heat to block off a vein.

These treatments tend to have some very common side effects that include nerve damage, deep vein thrombosis, wound complications like skin infections, blood clots, vascular injuries, scarring and staining of the skin.
Also, despite an invasive surgery, the chances of recurrence of the problem are common. Homeopathy has an excellent scope for treating varicose veins.
The symptoms like pain, cramping, tiredness, a sensation of heaviness in the legs are well-managed with homeopathy medicines. Homeopathy for varicose veins works at strengthening the valves of veins in legs, reducing the blood engorgement and aid in the symptomatic management of the varicose veins. The benefits of using these remedies for varicose veins are as follows:

1. No Side-Effects

Homeopathy for varicose veins cause no side effects, unlike conventional treatments. These medicines for varicose veins are made of natural substances and are highly diluted, yet potent, and they work to prevent the backflow of blood in the vein.

2. Simple and Effective

Homeopathy works to restore the internal healing mechanism of the body. This helps address the condition naturally and effectively, and invasive procedures like surgery can be held off.

3. Natural Medicines are Safe

Made from natural substances, homeopathy helps treat the condition on a long-term basis. Once a treatment for varicose veins has been successfully administered, the chances of the condition recurring are slim to none. Unlike conventional treatment, homeopathy offers long-term relief from the symptoms of varicose veins.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Varicose Veins

1. Hamamelis Virginiana – For Tiredness/Aching in Legs

Hamamelis is prepared from a plant commonly named witch – hazel. This plant belongs to family Hamamelidaceae.
Hamamelis Virginiana is a highly effective remedy for varicose veins. Its most prominent symptom indication is tiredness or aching in the legs. Along with this, a tense feeling in the legs may be present. The varicosities may look like hard and knotty swellings in the legs. A dragging sensation in the legs may be present. Pain in varicose veins from the slightest motion is another feature. Soreness of varicose veins may also arise. Hamamelis Virginiana can help to reduce the engorgement of blood in veins and its related symptoms. Deep-rooted, circular ulcers with stinging, pricking pain and high sensitivity are another prominent features for using the homeopathic medicine Hamamelis Virginiana.

Key Indications for using Hamamelis Virginiana for Varicose Veins:

– Tiredness or aching in the legs.

– A tense feeling in the legs.

– Varicose ulcers with stinging and pricking pain.

2. Pulsatilla Nigricans – For Varicose Veins that are Painful

Pulsatilla Nigricans is a natural medicine prepared from plant “windflower”. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae.
Pulsatilla Nigricans is an excellent remedy for varicose veins that are painful. Heaviness or weariness in the legs along with pain, a tensed and drawing sensation in the legs, cramping in the legs (mostly in the evening) are the symptoms highly indicative of Pulsatilla Nigricans.
Hanging down the lower limbs worsens the complaints. Along with these symptoms, restlessness in the lower limbs may also appear. Pulsatilla Nigricans is indicated for varicose veins in women when the symptoms worsen during menses and for varicose veins on lower limbs, forearms, and hands.

Key Indications for using Pulsatilla for Varicose Veins:

– Presence of painful varicose veins.

– A tensed and drawing sensation in the legs.

– A cramping sensation in the legs.

3. Calcarea Fluor – For Hard, Knotty Varicose Veins

Calcarea Fluor is a highly recommended remedy for varicose veins. It is a biochemic medicine for varicose veins that work wonderfully in reducing the engorgement of blood in veins and improving blood circulation. Few indications for using Calcarea Fluor are enlarged veins, hardened veins, knotty veins on lower limbs. The attending features are dry, cracked skin on the legs.

Key Indications for using Calcarea Fluor for Varicose Veins:

– Presence of hard varicose veins.

– Presence of knotty varicose veins.

– Dry, cracked skin on the legs.

Other Important Medicines for Varicose Veins

1. Calcarea Carb – For Painless Varicose Veins

Calcarea Carb is an excellent remedy for varicose veins. It is useful for varicose veins that are painless and appear only as prominent veins on the legs. Burning sensation in veins may be present in a few cases. A marked coldness in feet, excessive sweat on feet (sour smelling) and varicose veins on the legs and thighs are well-treated with Calcarea Carb.

2. Fluoric Acid – For Varicose Veins worsened by Warmth

Fluoric Acid is a valuable remedy for varicose veins treatment. The most characteristic feature to use Fluoric Acid is painful varicose veins in the legs that are made worse by warmth. Fluoric Acid is used to treat long-standing, obstinate cases of varicose veins. Apart from the above symptoms, Fluoric Acid is useful for varicose ulcers with red margins. Pain in ulcers is intense, and warmth worsens the pain while cold application relieves the pain.

3. Apis Mellifica – For Stinging Pains

Apis Mellifica is a remedy for varicose veins where there is a stinging pain present in the affected area. Burning sensation and sensitiveness on the leg may be present. In a few cases, lower limbs feel tired, bruised and heavy as lead. Swelling in the legs may also be present with inflamed veins.

4. Graphites Naturalis – For Varicose Veins with Itching

Graphites Naturalis is a highly recommended remedy for varicose veins attended with itching. Itching in most cases gets worse at night time. Little pimples may be present on the surrounding skin surface (affected by varicose veins). Skin dryness may also be there to a high degree. Other attending features are restlessness, heaviness, and tensed feeling in legs. The tensed feeling gets worse upon extending the legs. A congested feeling in legs and feet on standing may also be present. Graphites Naturalis is also a helpful remedy for swelling in the legs with peculiar shooting pain as well as for varicose eczema.

5. Vipera Berus – For Bursting Sensation in Legs

Vipera Berus is a well-indicated remedy for varicose veins with a marked ‘bursting’ feeling in the legs. A pain of unbearable nature that gets worse on hanging down the legs is present. Elevating the legs brings relief. Severe cramping pain in the legs is also present. Swollen, tender veins and blueness of overlying skin are highly indicative of using medicine Vipera Berus.

6. Millefolium Achillea – For Varicose Veins during Pregnancy

Millefolium Achillea is prepared from a plant named yarrow of the family Composite. Millefolium Achillea is an effective remedy for varicose veins arising during pregnancy. It works well in cases of both painful and painless varicose veins. A drawing pain is most prominently present in the legs. Millefolium Achillea is also suitable for varicose veins that break and bleed easily.

7. Lachesis Muta – For Varicose Ulcers

Lachesis Muta is an important medicine for treating varicose ulcers. People needing Lachesis Muta have ulcers with bluish-purplish surroundings. There is a thin, offensive discharge from the ulcers. Pus discharges may also be there in a few cases. Bleeding may arise from the ulcers, and an intense burning sensation may be present. There is extreme pain and high sensitivity to touch on the ulcer. Applying warmth to the ulcers helps relieve the pain. Itching that gets noticeably gets worse after sleeping is another characteristic feature.

8. Zincum Met – For Varicose Veins that are Very Large

Zincum Met is an effective medicine for large varicose veins on the legs. A tight, full, congested feeling in the legs is prominent. Tearing pain in the legs and formication (sensation like insects crawling over the skin) are also present in a few cases. The person requiring  Zincum Met also complains of uneasiness and heaviness in the legs with constant motion of the legs. Burning sensation and sweat on lower limbs are also common. Apart from varicose of legs, Zincum Met is also indicated for varicose veins in the genital organs.

9. Arsenic Album – For Varicose Veins that are Inflamed

Arsenic Album is a remedy for varicose veins that are inflamed. The symptoms indicating the use of Arsenic Album are swollen legs, burning sensation, and uneasiness in the legs. The uneasy feeling in the legs makes the person change the position of the legs frequently. A burning sensation in most cases is worse during the night. Warm applications over the legs may offer relief. Fever, extreme weakness, and stabbing pains on the legs are other symptoms. Arsenic Album is useful for varicose ulcers with a gray crust and inflamed borders.

10. Carbo Veg – For Spider Veins

Carbo Veg is a prominently indicated remedy for spider veins. The veins appear reddish bluish. The skin feels cold and sweaty, and the person may experience itching that gets worse during the evening. Varicose ulcers that bleed easily also indicate the need for Carbo Veg.

11. Arnica Montana – For Varicose Veins with Soreness

Arnica Montana is prepared from the plant ‘Leopard’s Bane’ which belongs to the natural order Composite. Arnica Montana is a valuable remedy for varicose veins accompanied by extreme soreness. Fear of touching the legs is present as a result of the soreness. Exertion worsens the complaint. An aching, bruised sensation in the legs is also there in few cases. Bruised feeling in the legs as if beaten may also accompany in some instances .may also be present. The skin of the legs may also be swollen, red and hot.

What are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins may not cause any symptoms in most of the cases and only appear as dark/purple-colored prominent veins in the leg. General symptoms include aching, tired or heavy feeling in the legs, throbbing and cramping in legs, and worsening of pain from sitting or standing for extended periods.
Color changes, swelling/inflammation, and ulcers on the legs may be indicative of severe changes like phlebitis (inflammation in a vein) and venous ulcers and should be addressed promptly.

Varicose Veins – How Do They Develop?

The veins in our legs contain one-way valves. These valves of the veins in the legs allow only one-way blood flow (from the legs to the heart) when the muscles squeeze the veins in the leg.
When the muscles contract, the valves open and blood from the legs pushes upwards to reach the heart. When these muscles relax, the valves close to prevent reverse flowing of blood back in legs. In case these valves don’t function properly, it results in a reverse flow of blood and stagnation of blood in the leg.
This causes the veins to become enlarged, twisted, engorged, and they are known as varicose veins.

Diagnosing Varicose Veins

A physician can usually diagnose the varicose veins by looking at them and asking questions. An ultrasound of the lower limbs is recommended to check and locate any damaged valves. It also helps rule out the presence of any blood clot. Other investigations include Color Duplex Ultrasound scan and Venograms (X-rays of the area taken after injecting a special dye).

Factors that Contribute to Varicose Veins

Obesity: Obese people often develop varicose veins without any knowledge, as the veins are not visible beneath the layers of the skin (due to accumulated fat). With time, the pressure from the leaking veins causes damage on the surface of the skin, and the problem becomes visible. This also puts many overweight people at a higher risk of developing leg ulceration.

Standing/Sitting for a Long Time: Sitting or standing for long durations causes leads to poor blood circulation in the legs. When we sit, it becomes harder for the veins to move the blood to the heart. Over time, this can cause swelling in the ankles, blood clots, and varicose veins. Sitting with the legs crossed or bent for long durations can make the problem worse.

Old Age: With age, the veins lose elasticity and cause them to stretch. This causes the valves in the veins to become weak. As a result, the blood that should be moving towards the heart starts flowing backward.

Pregnancy: During pregnancy, it is very common for a woman to develop varicose veins since the volume of blood in the body increases, but overall, the flow of blood from the legs to the pelvis decreases. Varicose veins often develop or become worse during the later stages of pregnancy since the uterus starts to exert increased pressure on the veins in the legs. This condition often improves post pregnancy within three to twelve months.

Age: The chances of developing varicose veins increase with age. Aging causes the wear and tear of the valves in the veins, allowing blood to flow back into the veins where it gets collected.

Gender: Females are more likely to develop varicose veins due to hormonal changes they experience throughout their lifetime. Pregnancy, pre-menstruation, menopause, hormone replacement therapy and the use of birth control pills all cause hormonal changes in a woman’s body. Female hormones are known to relax the walls of the veins.

Family History: A family history of varicose veins makes a person susceptible to developing the condition.

Complications Related to Varicose Veins

The complications of varicose veins include bleeding, venous ulcers, varicose eczema, superficial thrombophlebitis and DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

Bleeding: Veins that are close to the skin may rupture and bleed. The bleeding may occur spontaneously or be the result of a minor injury. Spontaneous rupture occurs with the weakening of walls of the veins. This happens when the veins stretch due to enlargement over time. In addition to this, the pressure inside the veins is already high due to the pooling of blood. The weak vein walls and high pressure inside the veins can lead to a spontaneous rupture of veins.

Venous Ulcers: A venous ulcer is a painful sore that develops on the leg near the ankles in case of varicose veins. Venous ulcers heal slowly. The pooling of blood in the veins builds up pressure. If not treated in time, the increase in pressure can cause the skin around the ankle to break and form an ulcer. The varicose ulcer usually develops on the skin of the inner side of the leg, immediately above the ankle. The base of such an ulcer is generally red and has uneven borders. The skin around the ulcer is discolored, dark, and hard.
Swelling of the leg, ankle, and heaviness in the leg, foul-smelling discharge from the ulcers, itching, burning, and pain of varying intensity may be present. A high fever may also be present in cases of infection.

Varicose Eczema: Varicose eczema (also known as stasis / gravitational eczema) is another complication of varicose veins. It affects the lower legs, where the skin gets dry, red, itchy, scaly, and flaky. The affected skin looks shiny and may be painful and tender. In some people, a brown discoloration of the skin may be present.

Superficial Thrombophlebitis: Superficial thrombophlebitis refers to an inflammation of the vein near the surface of the skin caused by a blood clot. The symptoms include intense swelling, redness, warmth, pain, and tenderness on the legs. Hardening of vein and darkening of the skin on the vein is a common characteristic. It is usually a short-term condition that resolves itself in about 2 – 3 weeks without any complications in a majority of cases. Rare complications if arise in minority of cases includes cellulitis and DVT.

DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis): Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) refers to the development of a blood clot within vein deep inside the body (usually in the leg). It causes swelling and warmth in the affected leg. Other features are a pain in the leg, redness/discoloration of skin on the leg. DVT may lead to severe complications like pulmonary embolism (when blood clots in vein break and travel via the bloodstream to lodge in the lungs). Common symptoms of pulmonary embolism include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, rapid pulse, and spitting of blood.

Spider Veins are Not Varicose Veins

Spider veins are dilated clusters of tiny (<1mm diameter) superficial blood vessels developing close to the surface of the skin. They are also called telangiectasias. Spider veins appear as thin, red, blue, purple lines or as weblike networks of blood vessels on the surface of the skin. These look like a spider’s web. They mostly appear on the face, legs, and feet. They don’t usually cause any problems and are mainly considered to be a cosmetic issue. These are generally common in older adults.

Managing Varicose Veins

There are certain diet and lifestyle measures one can follow to prevent and manage varicose veins:

Get the Blood Flowing with Exercise

Regular exercise offers a host of benefits. Exercise can help increase the blood flow throughout the body and also reduce inflammation. Staying in one position for too long makes it harder for the veins to pump blood back to the heart. Also, poor posture, like sitting with the legs crossed, increases the pressure on the veins.
Exercise also helps lose or maintain an ideal weight, balance the hormones and lower the blood pressure. All these factors are known to contribute to the development of varicose veins but can be effectively managed with exercise.

Certain exercises, like calf-raises, side lunges, and leg lifts help stretch and strengthen the veins around the legs. Other low-impact activities like bicycling, walking and swimming also help alleviate pressure from the veins in the legs.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

People who are overweight are more likely to develop varicose veins, especially overweight women and older adults. Carrying excess body weight puts higher amounts of pressure on your veins and can contribute to inflammation or reflux, especially in the largest superficial veins, such as the saphenous vein in the legs.

Habits to Change

It is common for people to remain seated for long hours in today’s time. Sitting and standing for long hours should be avoided, and gentle stretches and exercises should be incorporated in everyday life to keep the circulation up.
Additionally, sitting or lying down with the legs elevated is an important preventive measure.
One should avoid wearing high heels for long durations.
There are various compression stockings available that are recommended for use. These stockings squeeze the leg muscles and help them move the blood efficiently.

Foods to Eat to Manage Varicose Veins

An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Foods that help improve blood flow and reverse inflammation can be consumed to speed up the process of healing varicose veins. These foods also help prevent future episodes of varicose veins. Some anti-inflammatory foods that help reduce varicose veins include:

Foods with Antioxidants

Flavonoids, vitamin E, and vitamin C are important oxidants found in berries, green vegetables, and citrus fruits. These foods help fight inflammation, improve the health of the arteries and strengthen the veins. Vitamin E acts as a natural blood thinner and prevents blood clots, while vitamin C works on the health of the skin and serves as a potent anti-inflammatory.

Foods Rich in Magnesium

Some of the most common signs of electrolyte deficiencies like magnesium and potassium are issues with blood pressure, leg cramps and pooling of blood. Foods like sweet potatoes, avocados, cruciferous vegetables, bananas and leafy vegetables contain these essential electrolytes and should be added to the diet.

Foods High in Fiber

Fiber found in food helps improve the heart function as well as the functioning of the digestive system. Lack of fiber can cause constipation, which leads to increased pressure on the veins near the abdomen and legs.
High fiber foods like flaxseeds, fresh fruits, chia seeds, sprouted legumes, vegetables and ancient grains.

Foods that are Spicy

Spicy foods like curries and cayenne peppers heat up the body and increase blood circulation. They also help control the appetite and weight.

Diuretics to Reduce Water Retention 

Foods with diuretic properties help increase urination to reduce water retention in the body. Cucumber, fresh herbs like parsley and basil, asparagus, fennel, and celery are natural diuretics.

Foods to Avoid incase of Varicose Veins 

A poor diet leads to weight gain, low circulation, hormonal imbalances, blood pressure issues, and in some cases, arterial damage.
Some foods to avoid include sugar, alcohol, trans fats, caffeine and processed foods. Such foods also tend to contain large amounts of sodium, which (when taken in excess) dehydrates the body. These foods may also contain toxins that can make the swelling in the varicose veins much worse.

A varicose ulcer is a sore which develops on the leg due to poor circulation of blood in the lower limb. The ulcer is usually located on the inner side of the leg, just above the ankle. There are valves in the veins of the legs that allow one-way blood flow from legs to the heart. Venous ulcers (open sores) occur when the veins in the legs do not push blood back up to the heart as they should due to which the blood backs up in the veins, building up the pressure, weakening the overlying skin on the top. If not treated, increased pressure and excess fluid in the affected area can cause an open sore to form. This type of wound can be slow to heal. The top homeopathic remedies for varicose ulcer are Acidum Fluoricum, Calendula Officinalis, Carbo Veg, Lachesis Muta, Pulsatilla, Arnica, and Calc. Carb. 

Homeopathic Remedies for Varicose Ulcer

Conventional treatments for treating leg ulcers usually involve getting rid of the diseased tissue and any callused skin. This form of treatment relies on keeping the wound clean with regular dressings but does not accelerate healing time and is also troublesome. Antibiotics may also be used if the ulcer becomes infected, but they don’t help ulcers to heal. However, unless the underlying cause of the ulcer is addressed, there’s a high risk of a venous leg ulcer recurring after treatment so Homeopathy can be a great supportive therapy in such conditions by focusing on the symptoms of itching, burning, and pain in the ulcer along with strengthening the body’s immunity and self-healing capacity for gradual healing of the ulcer to prevent its reoccurrence.

1. Acidum Fluoricum

Acidum Fluoricum is a remedy used to treat a number of health conditions like those that have an impact on the fibrous tissues like the bones and veins. Such conditions may include pain in the varicose veins and other more severe ailments like bone tumors. In addition, this medicine is an effective remedy to prevent the decay of teeth.
Fluoric acid is made from the chemical condensation of calcium fluoride. In this case, the veins have a tendency to become distended. The ulcers may cause immense pain and the condition, as well as pain, is likely to worsen when the individual keeps standing for prolonged periods. The ulcers have red edges and there may be the formation of vesicles. Itching with a burning sensation, a swollen leg, and relief upon using cold compress are some of the symptoms indicating towards the remedy.

2. Calendula Officinalis

Calendula Officinalis is a medicine used to treat varicose ulcers with copious pus discharge. It is made from a cultivated perennial herb Marigold of the family Compositae. Inflammation, stinging sensation and pain in the ulcer which is deep, red with ragged edges, lead to this medicine. This medicine is also used as a preventive measure against gangrene formation. The remedy has anti-inflammatory properties corresponding to its main action in injuries and inflammations.

3. Carbo Vegetabilis

Carbo Veg is used to treat varicose ulcers that bleed easily, even on the slightest touch. This remedy is made from vegetable charcoal of the family Fagaceae. The ulcer has a mottled purple color appearance and the skin surrounding it feels tense. There is burning pain in the ulcer along with foul-smelling pus discharge. Carbo Veg, corresponding to its source, is well known for its ability to absorb the toxins in the body with a tendency towards burning sensations and pains in the body.

Other Important Remedies

4. Lachesis Muta

Lachesis Muta is a medicine used to treat varicose ulcers which are sensitive to touch. There may be a thin, offensive discharge from the ulcers. The surface of the ulcer is uneven and looks dirty, purplish. Bluish-blackish skin may surround the ulcer. There may be a burning sensation in the ulcers mostly at night. This medicine is indicated for varicose ulcers that arise as a result of an injury.

5. Pulsatilla Nigricans

Pulsatilla is used to treat varicose ulcers with itching. The ulcer looks red and is hard to touch. Symptoms like smarting, shooting pain, burning, stinging and excoriating sensation in the ulcer that gets better on exposure to open air, are the key symptoms indicating towards the remedy. In some cases, a greenish-yellowish discharge may also be seen.

6. Arnica Montana

Arnica relieves pain, bruising and swelling of the varicose ulcers associated with trauma or overexertion.

7. Calcarea Carb

Varicose ulcers that hurt while the person is standing or walking respond to the remedy Calc. Carb. People who need this remedy often have a poor blood circulation with an associated sensation of chilliness.

Causes of Ulcer Formation

The veins in our legs have one-way valves that keep blood flowing up toward your heart. When these valves become weak, blood can flow backward and gets accumulated in the legs. This is called Venous Insufficiency. The excess fluid causes the blood pressure to build up. The increase in pressure and buildup of fluid prevents nutrients and oxygen from getting to the tissues. The lack of nutrients causes the cells to die, damaging the tissue, and thus forming a wound (sore).

Risk Factors

Different risk factors predispose a person towards the formation of varicose ulcers. The factors include conditions like the presence of Varicose veins, history of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis), blockage of the lymph vessels, Older age, more common in females, or being tall, in conditions of Obesity, Pregnancy. Smoking is also a factor that can put a person to risk and so can sitting or standing for long hours. A family history of venous insufficiency is another risk factor seen. Fractures of long bones in the leg or other serious injuries, such as burns or muscle damage also increase the risk.
These risk factors are important and taken into consideration before the prescription of suitable remedies.

Signs and Symptoms

When blood pools in the veins of the lower limb, fluid and blood cells leak out into the skin and other tissues. This can cause itchy, thin skin and lead to skin changes called stasis dermatitis. This is an early sign of venous insufficiency. The sign of a varicose ulcer is an ulcer on the leg, near the ankle with shallow sore and a red base, sometimes covered by a yellow tissue with unevenly shaped borders. The surrounding skin may be shiny, tight, warm or hot, and discolored. Symptoms of leg pain, itching and burning can be troublesome. If the sore becomes infected, it may be offensive and pus may drain from the wound.

Other early signs include:
Leg swelling with heaviness and cramping.
Dark red, purple or brownish skin with hardening (this is a sign of blood pooling in the area)
Tingling sensation in the area.

Other Types of Leg Ulcers

Other common types of leg ulcers include:

Arterial leg ulcers- caused by the poor blood circulation in the arteries.
Diabetic leg ulcers -caused by high blood sugar associated with diabetes.
Vasculitic leg ulcers -associated with chronic inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis & lupus.
Traumatic leg ulcers -caused by any trauma to the leg.
Malignant leg ulcers -caused by a tumor of the skin of the leg.

Wound Care

The basic instructions to wound care for people at risk of developing an ulcer are as follows:

1. Always keep the wound clean to prevent any infection.
2. Keep the dressing and the skin around it dry. Try not to get the healthy tissue around the wound too wet as it can soften the healthy tissue, causing the wound to get bigger in size.
3. Before applying a dressing, cleanse the wound thoroughly.
4. Protect the skin around the wound by keeping it clean and moisturized.

To help treat a venous ulcer, blood flow to the legs needs to be improved for which we need to: –

1. Wear compression stockings or bandages every day. They help prevent the blood from collecting, thus reducing swelling, pain and helping with healing.
2. Lying down with the feet elevated up on pillows which improve the circulation.

Some warning signs of infection which need immediate assistance are:-

1. Redness increased warmth or swelling around the wound.
2. More drainage than before or drainage that is yellowish.
3. Bleeding from the ulcer.
4. Bad Odor from the wound.
5. Fever or chills.
6. Increased intensity of pain.

Lifestyle Management and Prevention

Lifestyle changes can help prevent venous ulcers. The following measures may help improve blood flow and aid healing:

1. Quit smoking, as it is bad for the blood vessels.
2. In diabetes, keeping the blood sugar level under control will help heal faster.
3. Exercising much helps with the blood flow.
4. Eating healthy foods and with a proper sleep routine.
5. Lose weight in cases of obesity.
6. Managing the blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Edema also known as dropsy and fluid retention refers to fluid build-up in the tissues of the body. It usually affects legs, feet and ankles though other body parts can also be affected by it like hands, face, eyelids, etc.

Edema can be pitting (when a swollen part of the body has a dimple after one presses it) or non-pitting type. In case of pitting edema when pressure is applied to the affected swollen area, the indentation persists for some time after the pressure is released. In case of non-pitting edema, the indentation goes away immediately after the release of pressure. Edema causes swelling, puffiness in the affected part. The skin above it looks shiny and stretched. Heaviness and pain in the affected area may also occur as also reduced urination.

Edema is given different names depending on the affected body part. When edema affects feet, legs and hands it is known as peripheral edema. When it affects the area around the eyes it is termed periorbital edema. Edema affecting the brain is cerebral edema. Edema that occurs in the lungs is known as pulmonary edema. Fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity is pleural effusion. Another form of it is lymphedema that occurs due to improper functioning of the lymphatic system that hinders normal drainage of the interstitial fluid. Swelling affecting the macula (a part of the eye) refers to macular edema. It occurs as a complication of diabetic retinopathy.

Edema can simply arise from excessive salt intake, sitting or standing for long durations at one place, before appearance of menses as a part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome which refers to a set of symptoms felt few days before onset of the menses), lack of protein in the diet for long time period and obesity. It may also occur during pregnancy. Use of some medicines can as well lead to edema, such as medicines for high blood pressure, steroid medicines, estrogen, NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines). Insect bites can be yet another cause. In other cases, edema tends to result from some underlying medical health conditions some of which could be serious. First condition is a sort of hindrance in the normal functioning of the lymphatic system that normally helps in draining extra fluid from the tissues. Damage to the lymph nodes can lead to it. Next condition is varicose veins that occur from damage to valves of veins in the legs that cause pooling of blood in the legs and lead to swelling. Another cause can be dermatitis (skin inflammation with redness, dryness, itching and in some cases fluid filled eruptions i.e, blisters). Besides these, some serious causes include DVT (deep vein thrombosis that refers to blood clot in deep vein/veins of the body mostly in the legs that can cause swelling and pain in the leg), severe allergic reaction, kidney damage, congestive heart failure, liver damage and some types of cancer.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is very helpful in managing the cases of edema. It helps manage this complaint naturally with the use of natural medicines so there is no worry about its side effects. The most suitable homeopathic medicine is prescribed symptomatically for every individual case separately after detailed case evaluation. It is advised to get every case evaluated by a homeopath and take medicines under the supervision of a doctor. Self-medication should not be practiced at all. In some cases, edema may result from some serious health problems like heart complaints, liver/kidney damage, DVT, so one should always consult a doctor to rule out the cause and follow appropriate treatment. Homeopathy is recommended only in mild cases without any serious cause linked to it. In case edema is linked to serious causes, immediate help from conventional mode of treatment should be taken as homeopathy has its limits in helping serious cases recover.

Homeopathic medicines for Edema

1. Apis Mellifica – Topmost Medicine

Apis Mellifica is one of the best homeopathic medicines to manage edema. The most characteristic feature to use this medicine is puffiness in different body parts accompanied by redness and stinging pain. The affected parts are also sore to touch. Intolerable heat is felt on the affected part.  It offers a big help in managing edema of the legs, feet and ankles. The legs and feet look waxy and pale.

It is very effective to manage puffiness around the eyes. The skin on the eyelids also feels tight with this. Stiffness is also felt in the eyelids. An accompanying feature is a burning sensation. Apis Mellifica is also beneficial to manage puffiness on the face which may look pale and waxy. Another sign for its use is swelling of the hands. There is also heat and redness on the hands. When pressure is applied on hands white spots appear that go away gradually. It is also topmost medicine to manage swelling that is seen after insect bites and stings.

2.  Rhus Tox – For Edema Of Eyelids

This medicine is suitable for managing edema of the eyelids. Those who need it, show symptoms of red eyelids and hot tears flow from the eyes. At times, there may be the presence of yellow mucus discharge from the eyes. Next, there may be burning pain in the eye and also difficulty in opening the eyelids in some cases. Redness of the face can be a presenting factor. Besides the above, this medicine is administered when there is redness on the skin with vesicles (tiny fluid-filled eruptions) with edema.

3. Arsenic Album – For Swollen Face, Eyelids, Feet And Legs

Arsenic Album is a very useful medicine for managing edema of the face and the eyelids. Those who need it have swollen eyelids. Initially, swelling occurs on the upper eyelid followed by the lower lid. Next, it is helpful in case of edema of the feet and the legs. Along with swelling, a burning sensation is felt on the feet. The feet look shiny with reddish spots. Excessive weakness is also visible.

4. Acetic Acid – For Edema Accompanied By Excessive Thirstiness

Acetic Acid is a well-indicated medicine for managing edema with excessive thirst for water. This medicine is most prominently indicated for managing swelling of the legs. The skin looks pale and waxy with swelling. This medicine is also indicated for edema of legs, feet, or arms linked with anemia. Excessive weakness is present where this medicine is required. This medicine is also very effective for managing swelling that appears along with varicose veins.

5. Lycopodium – For Edema Of Legs With Oozing Of Watery Fluid

This medicine is administered for edema of the legs accompanied by oozing of watery fluid from the same spots. There are ulcers on the legs. These are accompanied by itching and burning sensations. This gets worse at night. Tearing pain in the legs is also an accompanying factor. Edema of the feet may also be present. Along with this, there is a burning sensation felt on the soles. Excessive sweat with a foul smell on the feet is present. The feet can be sore.

6. Pulsatilla – To Manage Swelling On Legs In Varicose Veins / Inflamed Veins

This medicine is very valuable to manage swelling of the legs due to varicose veins and inflamed veins. Those who require it present with swelling in the legs and thighs. There is difficulty in moving the legs. Along with this, there is also dull pain felt in the legs. The feet are also swollen. There is also redness of feet. The feet feel heavy. A burning type of pain and a drawing sensation is felt on the feet. There is an urge to stretch your feet while sitting. A tingling sensation while standing may also be felt. This can get better as one starts walking.

 

Leg pain at night is quite a common problem that leads to a lot of discomfort, and tends to disturb sleep followed by tiredness in the day. There may be many reasons behind leg pain. The symptoms that attend it are numbness, tingling, throbbing sensation, cramping, heaviness and restlessness in the leg. The leg can be swollen, the skin of legs can be red, warm, and itchy. Veins of the legs may become prominent and appear bluish.

Leg pain at nighincludet could simply be arising from excessive exercise or prolonged standing or walking during the day, advancing age, poor sleep posture, dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, cramps (sudden tightening of muscles with pain) in the calf muscles, and use of certain medicines (like steroids, antidepressants).

But recurrent pain in legs could indicate some underlying health condition that needs to be ruled out followed by its proper treatment. These issues, firstly, include problem with blood circulation in the legs. Some of its examples reaching varicose veins, blood clot in vein – DVT, peripheral arterial disease. Varicose veins refer to twisted, dilated, enlarged veins that though can affect any vein in the body, but are most common in the veins of legs.

DVT refers to Deep Vein Thrombosis in which a blood clot forms in the deep veins mostly in the leg. It is a serious medical condition because the clot carries the risk of being detached and reach the lungs via blood stream and block blood supply there.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which the arteries get narrow and there is decreased blood flow to the legs and arms. It usually results from the building up of fatty deposits in the arteries medically known as atherosclerosis.

Other causes can be nerve pain (for example sciatica – it refers to pain in the lobloodstreamwer back radiating down to legs and even feet from compression of the sciatic nerve), arthritis (joint inflammation), diabetic neuropathy (it is a kind of nerve damage that tend to affect persons suffering from diabetes), bone fracture (broken bone) and restless leg syndrome (RLS –  a condition in which the sufferer has an irresistible urge to keep the legs moving due to some sort of unusual sensations felt in legs).

Another reason can be muscle (myositis) or tendon inflammation (tendonitis). In kids growing pains (an aching or throbbing pain in legs in the calf muscles, front of the thighs and behind knees in the children) can be the cause.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy offers a natural and very effective treatment for cases of leg pain. Homeopathic medicines are prepared from natural substances to treat thepain naturally without side effects. They help in reducing pain wonderfully by treating the root cause behind it. Besides, they tend to relive any attending symptoms like heaviness, numbness, formication, tingling, restlessness and swelling in the leg if present. Homeopathic medicines for treating leg pain are selected based on the cause and characteristic individual symptoms in each and every case. It is recommended to consult a homeopathic physician prior to taking any of the homeopathic medicines for treating leg pain and avoid self-medication. As the cause behind leg pain can be serious in some cases, like blood clot in the vein of leg, it is advised to always consult a physician to rule out the reason behind leg pain and for its proper treatment. In serious cases of leg pain, like DVT, homeopathy has limitations, in such cases help from conventional mode of treatment should be taken.

 Homeopathic Medicines for Leg Pain

1. Rhus Tox – Top Recommended Medicine

Rhus Tox is the most important medicine to manage leg pain at night. This medicine is indicated for pain related to muscles, tendons, joints and nerves. Pain occurring from over-activity of legs as from some exercise, excessive walking can be effectively dealt with this medicine. Pain from inflamed muscles or tendons can be relieved with this medicine. In case of muscle cramps also, Rhus Tox is very effective. Cramps in calf muscles when lying in bed or after midnight can be treated with this medicine. Next, Rhus Tox is indicated for leg pain due to nerve involvement, like sciatica. In cases needing it, the sciatica pain can be left or right side. It gets better by rubbing or warm applications. It can be attended with numbness and formication (feeling of ants crawling on skin) in legs. Marked restlessness in legs attends the pain at night.

2. Magnesium Phos – To Relieve Leg Cramps

This medicine is highly recommended to manage leg cramps at night. This medicine is highly suitable when cramps result from overexertion. Besides cramps, this medicine is also indicated for nerve pain in legs along with cramps. If nerves are involved, pain keeps shifting between left and right side in cases needing it.

3. Colocynth – To Relieve Nerve Pain (Sciatica)

This is a top medicine to manage nerve pain in the leg in case of sciatica. The leg is sore to touch along with pain. The pain gets worse at night. Warm applications on the leg provide relief. Rubbing the leg offers relief.  Though it can be used for leg pain on either side, it is most prominently indicated for left-sided pains.

4. Arnica – For Pain With Soreness

This medicine is effective for pain in legs along with soreness (pain on touch). Pain in legs from overexertion and tiredness are wonderfully managed with Arnica. In cases needing it, tingling in legs can also be felt. Leg pain from an injury is also best treated with this medicine.

5. Gelsemium – For Pain In Calf Muscle In Back Of Leg

Gelsemium is very beneficial for managing pain in calf muscles (present in back of legs) at night. The pain in muscles is quite deep-seated. It gets better by movement. The legs feel heavy with pain. Besides the above, this medicine is helpful for burning type of pain in legs due to sciatica.

6. Agaricus – For Pain In Bones Of Lower Leg At Night

This medicine is highly valuable to manage pain in bones of lower legs at night. Pain in legs gets better by walking. The legs feel heavy along with weakness. Numbness can also be felt in legs. Increased sweating occurs on lower legs.

7. Medorrhinum –Pain All Night With Restless Legs

This medicine is indicated when the legs pain the entire night. This prevents sleep. Restlessness is marked in legs. There is inability to keep the legs still. There is a desire to stretch the legs. Legs feel heavy and cold. Cramps are felt in calf muscles at night. There is relief in pain by stretching the legs. This medicine is very useful in cases of restless legs syndrome (RLS).

8. Ferrum Met – For Cramps In Legs And Nerve Pain

Ferrum Met is well indicated for cramps in legs as well as for nerve pain in the leg. Cramps in legs, feet, and toes can be well managed with this medicine. This medicine is suitable when there is nerve pain in legs at night. Standing worsens pain. Continuous walking however seems to bring relief. Throbbing is felt in legs. A drawing sensation is also felt in legs with pain. Legs feel heavy as well as stiff along with the above complaints.