Ayurvedic Treatment for Varicose Veins in Kerala
Varicose veins show up as painful, swollen and twisted veins, mainly on the legs. For those on the lookout for holistic treatments without any side effects, there are a variety of ayurvedic treatments for varicose veins in Kerala. These could include Panchakarma therapy, abhyanga, kizhi massages, shirodhara and certain yoga asanas designed to improve circulation and varicose veins. One of the best varicose veins treatments in Cochin, Kerala is available at the Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins present as purple or blue colored, swollen, enlarged and twisted veins that appear just under the skin’s surface. They are often accompanied by surrounding spider veins on their sides. Varicose veins can develop anywhere in the body, but are most often seen on the legs, ankles and feet. They develop as a result of damaged or weakened valves, leading to poor circulation, blood pooling and increased pressure in these deformed veins. Upon prolonged hours of sitting or standing, varicose veins can cause aching pains or cramping in the legs or wherever these deformed vessels are located. In some cases, they can also cause itchiness or feelings of heaviness.
This medical condition is more commonly seen in females and can be associated with hormonal influences of pregnancy, menopause, puberty and use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy. They are also associated with aging, obesity, family history of varicose veins or clots, or in those in occupations requiring prolonged standing or sitting.
Though varicose veins are of cosmetic concern too, their treatment is essential as they can lead to serious health conditions. Treatment options include compression stockings, laser therapy, surgery and lifestyle changes that will impact the cause of varicose veins.
Signs & Symptoms of Varicose Veins
While varicose veins may be considered as just a cosmetic concern by some, they can produce symptoms which can sometimes get quite distressful. Some of these symptoms could include enlarged, twisted or swollen veins accompanied by aching and throbbing pain which can worsen after standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.
Other symptoms include swelling, heavy feeling and change in skin color and texture on the affected areas. Ulcers, rashes and painful open sores on the legs are some more serious symptoms that could arise. Some people with varicose veins might develop muscle cramps too – especially at nights.
Causes of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged veins that are swollen and gnarled and appear under the skin surface. They present with weak blood vessels with valve damages that can lead to poor blood circulation, blood pooling as well as increased blood pressure in the veins.
While the exact causes aren’t fully understood, some factors that could lead to their development include family history, age, gender (women are more affected), obesity and hormonal changes like puberty, menopause and pregnancy. Other factors could include trauma, medical conditions like DVT and sitting or standing for long periods of time. See a doctor at the earliest.
Risks of Varicose Veins
In majority of cases, varicose veins do not present with serious health concerns. However, there are some associated risks in some people which could lead to complications that require medical attention. Varicose veins can lead to development of DVT in some cases along with formation of clots – which can become fatal if they reach the lungs. Since varicose veins are close to the skin surface, there is greater risk of bleeding and formation of ulcers or infected sores upon leg injury in such people. It can also lead to ankle swelling, especially in those who are obese, pregnant or older aged.
When to See a Doctor for Varicose Veins
Consider seeing a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms:
- 01 If you experience leg pain or discomfort from bulging varicose veins or tender lumps or swellings, it’s better to seek medical attention.
- 02 Since varicose veins are close to the skin surface, they can get injured easily and tend to bleed a lot. Show a doctor immediately.
- 03 If you notice any changes around the varicose veins such as discolored hard and dry/itchy skin or any new spots or rashes, then do show your doctor.
- 04 People with varicose veins have a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the risk of blood clots in deeper veins; these can prove to be dangerous if they get to the lungs and require immediate attention.
- 05 If you develop open sores or leg ulcers close to varicose veins, there is a risk of deeper infections and it’s important to get them treated at the earliest.
- 06 Varicose veins can also arise during pregnancy, resulting in leg pain and ankle swellings. Do seek medical attention if you feel weak legs or see twisted blue/purple color veins developing while you are pregnant.
- 07 If you have varicose veins and your legs are feeling heavy, better to consult a doctor early-on.
How Ayurveda can treat Varicose Veins
According to ayurvedic treatment for varicose veins in Kerala, it is caused by an imbalance in the Pitta and Kapha doshas in the person. Here is a look at some of the best ayurvedic treatments for varicose veins in Kerala:
- 01 Some of the ayurvedic medicines for varicose veins in Kerala include Triphala which is a mixture of 3 fruits that promote blood circulation and healthy veins. Guggulu and Gotu kola are two other ayurvedic herbs for varicose veins that work by reducing inflammation and swelling and improving blood circulation. These ayurvedic medicines can be taken orally or applied topically over the affected areas.
- 02 Panchakarma treatment is an ayurvedic purification therapy that eliminates toxins from the body. It includes various massages, herbal steam baths and some other therapies that improve overall blood circulation too.
- 03 Abhyanga is another form of full-body oil massage with special herbal oils that improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, strengthen the varicose veins and repair damaged nerves.
- 04 Kizhi is a type of warm herbal poultice massage where herbs tied up in muslin cloth and dipped in warm oil are used to massage the affected areas. It helps in reducing pain, inflammation and swelling.
- 05 Certain yoga poses and low-impact exercises can strengthen the veins and improve blood circulation. The Viparita Karani (legs up the wall) and Supta Padangusthasana (reclining hand-to-big-toe) yoga poses are known to be effective in enhancing blood flow to the legs and improving varicose veins.
Talk to a qualified ayurvedic practitioner first, for proper treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ayurveda cure varicose veins?
The 5000-year-old science of ayurveda has a variety of remedies for treating various levels of varicose vein problems. Your ayurveda practitioner can create a multi-pronged treatment module for you that could include oral medications, herbal pastes for topical application, a variety of unique massages aimed at rejuvenating blood circulation of the affected area, aside from specific yoga poses too.
Can varicose veins be prevented?
Yes, varicose veins can be prevented from developing by engaging in an active lifestyle and following a diet rich in fibers, anti-oxidants as well as anti-inflammatory elements. Availing of regular Panchakarma therapy also ensures that there are no toxin accumulations in your blood and your blood circulation flows smoothly. This is especially useful in those with a family history of varicose veins.
Can varicose veins go away on their own?
In a number of cases, varicose veins do not pose any problems or cause any pain. While they do not go away completely, they can become less visible. The smaller spider veins could take up to 3-6 weeks while varicose veins could take up to 3 to 4 months before disappearing. Pregnancy-associated varicose veins usually disappear 2-3 weeks after delivery.
How long does it take to see results after ayurvedic varicose vein treatment?
Ayurvedic varicose vein treatment with oral and topical medications and special massages can be highly effective. Keeping in mind that varicose veins take time to develop, it usually takes just 2 to 3 weeks for the pain, inflammation and swelling to disappear too with ayurvedic therapy. Within this time period, you will begin to feel at least 75% better.
Can exercise help prevent varicose veins?
While exercise can’t cure varicose veins, it can definitely improve your symptoms by improving circulation and toning up your muscles. This would in turn prevent the development of new varicose veins. Low-impact exercises like walking, biking and swimming are all great for your circulation and joints and improve circulation in existing varicose veins. And hopefully prevent new varicose veins!
Best Varicose Veins Treatment in Kerala
God’s own country, Kerala, also offers some of the best ayurvedic treatments for varicose veins in Kerala. The beauty of ayurvedic medicines for varicose veins in Kerala is that they provide holistic treatments that are free from side effects. One of the best ayurvedic treatment center for varicose veins in Cochin, Kerala is the Sanjeevanam Ayurvedic Hospital. A resort-like ambience and highly-trained and qualified staff in clean and hygienic, well-equipped facilities ensure that you get the best treatment possible. Here’s a look at some of the best ayurvedic varicose vein treatments in Kerala:
Elakizhi
Poultices made from rice, herbs and other medicines are wrapped in muslin, warmed and used for massaging the affected area for improved circulation and reduction in inflammation.
Njavarakizhi
Small muslin packets filled with rice, milk and herbs are dipped in warm herbal oil and massaged into the skin for improved circulation and inflammation.
Pizhichil
This is one of the best ayurvedic treatment for varicose veins in Kerala and involves pouring warm herbal oil all over the body and massaging. It improves blood circulation and inflammation in the legs and is very effective.
Ksheeradhara
Warm medicated milk is poured over the legs and massaged for relief from varicose veins.
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