What is it?
Capillary fragility is an extremely widespread problem in women and men. This occurs most frequently in the leg veins. Capillary fragility is manifested by the appearance of extensive point hemorrhagic spots (petechiae, bruises and hematomas).
In the most serious cases, capillary fragility can lead to purpura, when bleeding can also appear.
Causes
- Most cases of capillary fragility have constitutional and genetic causes;
- Very often it is caused by hormonal dysfunctions. This is the reason why it is more frequent in women taking birth control pills or during pregnancy, menopause, premenstrual phase;
- It can also depend on climatic condition. In fact, extreme heat, extreme wind, sunburn, change in weather conditions, exercise and having a few tipples are notorious culprits for broken capillariess;
- Stress can also be a cause;
- Vitamin A or C deficiency;
- Level I and II obesity;
- Alcohol and cigarette smoking;
- Sedentary lifestyle;
- Hyperadrenalism;
- Marfan syndrome;
- Cushing’s disease.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms include:
- Bruising;
- Hematomas;
- Petechiae;
- Purpura;
- Blue or purple veins;
- Pain, burning sensation or leg swelling;
- Heavy legs.;
- Diagnosis can be made through by a cardiologist, phlebologist or dermatologist. Very often the visit can be associated with specific examinations such as ultrasound Doppler or an angiogram.
Treatments
The most used treatment for capillary fragility is pressotherapy, a useful medical device for promoting venous and lymphatic return of the lower and upper limbs..
The technique is based on the application on the areas affected of heated pads, that strengthen the capillaries and prevent them from breaking.
It is a treatment that does not have very serious side effects, but to be avoided in case of pregnancy or diabetes.
Pharmacological therapy
The most used drugs for the treatment of capillary fragility are:
- Vasoprotectors such as Venoruton;
- Anti-inflammatory creams such as Antistax;
- Ointments rich in vitamins K, C and E.
Natural remedies and nutrition
A healthy lifestyle and a correct diet can help circulation and reduce capillary fragility. The main foods to include in the diet are:
- Foods rich in vitamin C, especially dark green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, chard, rocket or cabbage and the whole citrus family;
- Horse chestnut infusions is rich in escin, a saponin with an anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective action;
- Buckwheat is rich in rutoside, an anti-inflammatory flavonoid;
- Blueberries and red fruits are rich in anti-inflammatory bioflavonoids;
- Propolis is rich in vitamin P with anti-inflammatory action;
- Fish is rich in omega 3 with anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective action;
- Avoid foods high in sodium or processed foods;
- Avoid condiments like butter or margarine;
- Do not use too much spices such as red pepper, paprika, black pepper and mustard. They can stimulate venous inflammation;
- Cook food on the grill, in a pan or in the oven;
- Purple fruits are rich in antioxidants that stimulate blood circulation. Among these fruits we find plums, blackberries, blueberries, currants, dark grapes, cherries and raspberries;
- Dog rose regenerates blood vessels by preventing collagen degeneration;
- Rosehip favours microcirculation;
- Avoid sedentary lifestyle, walk at least 30 minutes a day. Mild exercise is essential to reduce capillary fragility.
Use elastic stockings and loose fitting clothes.