Every year the diagnosis of osteochondrosis becomes younger. It is increasingly being diagnosed in schoolchildren and students, and young people suffer from manifestations of radicular syndrome, which seriously complicates their lives. Headache, discomfort in the upper back and neck, decreased vision and hearing, migraines and deterioration of cognitive abilities are the main consequences of cerebral circulation disorders in cervical osteochondrosis. It is important not only to increase blood flow, but also to restore the intervertebral joints. How to improve cerebral circulation with cervical osteochondrosis? The article presents 8 groups of drugs for this purpose, and also provides recommendations for special gymnastics, the regular implementation of which will help improve well-being.
What to choose - traditional methods of treatment or therapy with pharmaceutical drugs?
Cervical osteochondrosis can result in serious suffering for the patient. A sedentary lifestyle, significant excess weight, spinal injuries, and staying in one position for a long time sooner or later lead to abrasion of the intervertebral discs, as a result of which the spinal nerves are pinched. This process can be accompanied by radicular syndrome and also lead to many other pathologies. They may not be externally related to osteochondrosis, but any experienced neurologist will instantly understand “where the legs grow from” in this or that pathology. Every patient with this diagnosis should know how to improve cerebral circulation with cervical osteochondrosis. If symptoms worsen, then it’s time to start a course of treatment.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, which can increase as cerebral circulation is impaired and the spinal nerve is pinched:
- At the first stage - frequent dizziness, darkening of the eyes, which intensifies when turning the head in different directions. Vision or hearing may deteriorate for no apparent reason, headaches may often occur, constant ringing in the ears, numbness of the tongue, loss of coordination, and decreased performance may begin.
- At the second stage, the patient begins to experience more pain in the neck and shoulders, sometimes radiating to the arms. The headache is more frequent and severe, and the pain partially goes away after a light massage of the cervical-collar area. All symptoms characteristic of the first stage gradually intensify.
- At the third stage, the danger is no longer just in poor circulation and pinched nerves, but also in the possibility of herniated intervertebral discs. As a result, the patient may partially lose mobility of the spine in the cervical region. Due to impaired blood circulation, intracranial pressure may increase, partial headaches, migraines with and without aura may begin.
- At the fourth stage, complete or partial destruction of the intervertebral discs occurs and their replacement with connective tissue. In this case, the patient partially loses his ability to work, suffers from severe pain, vision and hearing can sharply deteriorate to critical levels, and coordination also suffers.
It is possible to improve blood circulation in the brain with cervical osteochondrosis both with the help of medications and with the help of folk remedies. It is impossible to say with certainty that one method is better than another - all patients are individual, and the remedy that suits one may not suit another. The only exceptions are gymnastics and massage - these two methods guarantee improvement of cerebral circulation in cervical osteochondrosis for all patients, regardless of age, gender and stage of the disease. Usually, neurologists, in parallel with the massage course, give directions for physiotherapeutic procedures and exercise therapy. Taken together, such events always produce excellent results.
Some patients are wary of taking medications and purposefully choose exclusively traditional methods of treatment. This approach is quite dangerous, since most traditional methods of treatment are only partially effective. Gymnastics cannot be considered a folk method of treatment; its effectiveness has long been proven, and this method of therapy is classified as physiotherapeutic.
Treatment of cerebral circulation in cervical osteochondrosis should be comprehensive - only with this approach can the progression of the disease be slowed down and long-term remission achieved. After the alarming symptoms subside, you cannot give up - you need to take medications a couple of times a year and visit a physiotherapist’s office, otherwise the disease will make itself known again.
Description of the pathology
Circulatory disorders in the brain manifest themselves in the form of some unpleasant symptoms:
- frequent and intense dizziness;
- paroxysmal headaches similar to migraine;
- pain in the neck, which can radiate to any part of the chest;
- jumps in blood pressure;
- feeling of nausea, even to the point of vomiting;
- short-term loss of consciousness;
- increased reaction of irritation to external factors;
- fatigue;
- sudden lack of air;
- numbness and tingling of the hands and feet;
- sleep disturbance;
- cognitive disorders.
Circulatory disorders can lead to serious consequences.
Throughout the spine there are vessels through which oxygen is delivered to the brain. If there is insufficient blood circulation through them, important systems of the body suffer.
First of all, the main danger is cerebral infarction or hemorrhage. Such acute conditions are characterized by high mortality.
Cervical osteochondrosis is especially dangerous in this regard, since it is the cervical vertebrae that can compress large vascular trunks. Ischemia with such compression develops rapidly.
Also, the development of osteochondrosis in one part of the spine violates the integrity and strength of the entire spinal column. This is a risk factor for damage to other parts of the spine with a subsequent increase in the load on the lower extremities. In such cases, the legs take on a considerable load, which they cannot bear for a long time. Hence the development of arthritis of the knee, hip, ankle joints, varicose veins, and thrombophlebitis.
Antioxidants to improve overall circulation
Patients and doctors often underestimate the effect of antioxidants. Meanwhile, Mexidol, known to everyone and often prescribed for failure of cerebral circulation, belongs specifically to the group of antioxidants. “Tocopherol” should not be underestimated, and it should be purchased separately (and not as part of a vitamin-mineral complex):
- The release forms of the drug "Mexidol" are tablets and solution for intravenous administration. It is actively used in neurology as a means of improving cerebral circulation in cervical osteochondrosis. The drug is also prescribed for atherosclerosis, vegetative-vascular dystonia, as well as for cognitive impairment of various etiologies. Mexidol is also used in psychiatry to relieve alcohol withdrawal and post-withdrawal syndrome.
- “Tocopherol” can be taken both as part of vitamin-mineral complexes and separately in capsules. In the second case, it will be more effective, since nothing will interfere with its absorption. Vitamin E can slow down the aging process, it has a positive effect on metabolic processes, reduces the total number of platelets in the blood, and restores tissue respiration. When used in combination with nootropics and vasodilators, it can significantly alleviate the condition of a patient with cervical osteochondrosis.
CEREBRAL CIRCULATION INSUFFICIENCY OF VASCULAR GENESIS
Preferanskaya Nina Germanovna Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Educational Department, Institute of Pharmacy and Translational Medicine, Multidisciplinary Center for Clinical and Medical Research, International School “Medicine of the Future”, First Moscow State Medical University. THEM. Sechenov (Sechenov University), Ph.D.
Divaza (tablet for resorption No. 100) is an innovative combination drug containing affinity-purified antibodies to the brain-specific protein S-100 and affinity-purified antibodies to endothelial NO synthase. Antibodies to the brain-specific protein S-100 have antioxidant, antihypoxic, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic effects. The combined use of the components of the drug is accompanied by an increase in the neuroprotective activity of antibodies to the S-100 protein, an increase in the vegetative-stabilizing effect, normalization of the vegetative status, a synergistic effect of both components on neuronal plasticity and, as a result, an increase in the brain’s resistance to toxic influences.
The use of the drug improves integrative activity and restores interhemispheric connections of the brain, helps eliminate cognitive impairment, stimulates reparative processes and accelerates the restoration of central nervous system functions, increases mental performance, restores learning and memory processes, normalizes somatovegetative manifestations, and increases cerebral blood flow. The drug does not have a sedative or muscle relaxant effect, and does not cause addiction or addiction.
Divaza is used to restore integrative brain activity in a wide range of organic disorders of the central nervous system caused by neurodegenerative, cerebrovascular diseases, neuroinfections, and traumatic brain injury. Used as part of complex therapy. Individual hypersensitivity reactions to the components of the drug are possible.
1 tablet of the drug contains affinity-purified antibodies to the brain-specific protein S-100 - 0.006 g and affinity-purified antibodies to endothelial NO synthase - 0.006 g.
Instenon is a combination drug containing etamivan, hexobendine and etophylline . The neuroprotective effect of the drug is based on mutual potentiation of effects. The drug selectively stimulates brain metabolism, stabilizes cerebral and systemic circulation, slows down the death of brain neuron cells, moderately dilates coronary and cerebral vessels, increases the utilization of glucose and oxygen by brain cells. When using the drug, performance increases, fatigue, headaches decrease, mood and general tone improve.
The drug is prescribed to patients with acute and chronic forms of vascular pathology of the brain, consequences of a stroke, 2 ml IM or IV, after dissolving it in 200 ml of 5% glucose, 1-2 times a day.
Use 1-2 tablets orally. 3 times a day, without chewing, if necessary, increase the dose to 5 tablets.
Available: table, cover. obol. (50 mg etamivan + 20 mg hexobendine dihydrochloride + 60 mg etophylline); table forte (100 mg etamivan + 60 mg hexobendine + 60 mg etophylline); solution for injection, amp. 2 ml (50, 10 and 100 mg respectively).
Important! The most common side effects are decreased blood pressure, headache, and short-term tachycardia.
Piracetam + Cinnarizine (“ Omaron ”, tab., “ Combitropil ”, caps., “ Pyracesin ”, caps.) is a combination drug ( piracetam 400 mg + cinnarizine 25 mg ). Both components mutually potentiate their actions: antihypoxic, reduce cerebral vascular resistance and improve cerebral metabolism, and contribute to a significant increase in cerebral blood flow. The combined drug is quickly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The therapeutic effect appears after 1–6 hours.
Indications for use are various cerebrovascular accidents; for the prevention of migraines, to improve learning and memory of children with intellectual retardation. The usual dose for adults is 1-2 caps. 3 times a day for 1–3 months, depending on the severity of the disease. Repeat the course 2-3 times a year. Children from 5 years of age are prescribed 1-2 capsules 1-2 times a day.
Vinpocetine + Nootropil ( Vinpotropil , capsule, tablet, coating, concentrate d/injection solution) is a combination drug ( vinpocetine 5 mg + piracetam 400 mg ). The action is due to the components included in the composition, the effect develops gradually. Vinpocetine is a vasodilator that improves cerebral circulation; as a cerebrovasodilator, it improves cerebral circulation, causes a slight decrease in systemic blood pressure, dilation of cerebral vessels, increased blood flow and improved supply of oxygen and glucose to the brain; increases the resistance of brain cells to hypoxia, facilitating oxygen transport.
Piracetam as a nootropic agent has a positive effect on the metabolic processes of the brain, increases the concentration of ACE in brain tissue, enhances the synthesis of RNA and phospholipids, stimulates glycolytic processes, enhances glucose utilization; improves the integrative function of the brain.
Adults and adolescents over 14 years of age are prescribed orally, before meals, 1-2 caps. 3 times a day. Maintenance dose - 1 capsule 3 times a day. The course of treatment is from 2–3 weeks to 2–6 months. Before discontinuing the drug, the dose is reduced gradually.
PREPARATIONS OF ANIMAL ORIGIN
Cerebrolysin (injection solution, 1, 5 and 10 ml, amp.) is a product of hydrolysis of pig brain substance (1 ml of aqueous solution of the drug contains 0.2152 g of Cerebrolysin ). It is a clear, amber-colored liquid that contains low molecular weight neuropeptides (15%) and about 18 biologically active amino acids (85%). Active amino acids and peptides easily penetrate from the blood into neurons, exerting an organ-specific complex effect on the brain. The drug provides neuroprotection, functional neuromodulation, as well as regulation of metabolism, increases the efficiency of aerobic energy metabolism in brain tissue, improves oxygen utilization, protein synthesis in brain neurons, reduces the harmful effects of lactic acidosis, and stimulates transsynaptic transmission. The neuroprotective effect of Cerebrolysin is to increase the resistance of brain tissue to hypoglycemia, intoxication, hypoxia and other damaging influences.
It has been established that the drug has an antioxidant effect, inhibits the process of free radical oxidation, and has a positive effect on the homeostasis of antioxidant microelements (selenium, magnesium, potassium, manganese).
The drug is prescribed for ischemic stroke, cerebral atherosclerosis, complications after neurosurgical operations and traumatic brain injuries - from 10 to 50 ml is administered daily through very slow intravenous infusions with preliminary dilution with special solutions for infusions (Ringer's solution, dextrose solution). The duration of infusions is from 15 minutes. up to an hour. Duration of therapy is 10–20 days. If necessary, the course of treatment should be repeated, reducing the frequency of injections to 2-3 times a week. Contraindication is hypersensitivity to any component of the drug.
Actovegin (4% solution for injection, amp. 2, 5, 10 ml; solution for infusion, vial 250 ml; dragee forte 200 mg; tablet, coating volume, 200 mg) - a drug containing deproteinized homoderivative from calf blood serum with low molecular weight peptides, amino acids, nucleosides and intermediate products of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Actovegin activates metabolism in brain tissue, improves trophism and stimulates regeneration processes.
The drug is used for metabolic and circulatory disorders in the central nervous system, cerebrovascular accidents, encephalopathies, traumatic brain injuries and strokes. When using Actovegin, the pharmacological effect begins to appear no later than after 30 minutes. after parenteral administration or oral administration and reaches a maximum after an average of 3 hours. Parenteral administration of Actovegin should be carried out with caution due to the possible development of anaphylactic reactions.
Important! Side effects are mainly allergic reactions.
Cortexin (porous lyophilized 10 mg dosage solution for injection) is a complex of polypeptide fractions isolated from the cerebral cortex of cattle and pigs. The drug has a cerebroprotective and nootropic effect, restores bioelectrical activity and improves brain metabolism, regulates the ratio of inhibitory and excitatory amino acids, has a GABAergic effect, and has antioxidant activity. Cortexin is administered intramuscularly at a dose of 10 mg daily for 10 days. No side effects were identified during use.
PHYTOMEDICATIONS
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract is a herbal remedy. Produced under the trade names Bilobil forte, Ginkgo biloba, Ginos, Tanakan, etc.
The leaves contain biologically active substances - a sum of flavonoids ( quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol), terpene trilactones, gincolide, alkaloids, etc. The drug has antioxidant activity, prevents the formation of free radicals and lipid peroxidation of cell membranes, improves cerebral and peripheral circulation, strengthens the walls blood vessels, improves immunity, has an anti-inflammatory effect. Normalizes metabolic processes, has an antihypoxic effect on tissues. It has a pronounced anti-edematous effect both at the level of the brain and at the periphery. Affects the release, reuptake and catabolism of neurotransmitters (norepinephrine, dopamine, acetylcholine) and their ability to bind to membrane receptors. Ginkgo preparations have a wide range of applications, including encephalopathies of various origins (consequences of stroke, traumatic brain injury), and pathological processes that develop in old age, decreased intellectual abilities, sleep disturbances, and many others. etc. (see instructions).
Important! When used, allergic reactions (redness, swelling of the skin, itching), gastrointestinal disorders, headache, decreased blood clotting, hearing impairment, and dizziness are possible. There are reports of internal bleeding observed after long-term use of preparations based on Ginkgo biloba.
Tanakan is a preparation that contains 40 mg of dry standardized extract of Ginkgo biloba leaves, standardized, titrated in a quantitative volume: 24% Ginkgo heterosides and 6% Ginkgolides-Bilobalides. The effect of the drug is due to its influence on metabolic processes in cells, rheological properties of blood and microcirculation, as well as vasomotor reactions of blood vessels. The drug improves cerebral circulation and the supply of oxygen and glucose to the brain. It has a vasoregulatory effect on the entire vascular system: arteries, veins, capillaries. Helps improve blood flow, prevents red blood cell aggregation, and has an inhibitory effect on platelet activation factor.
Tanakan is prescribed 1 tablet. or 1 ml of solution for oral administration 3 times a day with meals (120 mg/day). When treating asthenic disorders, the optimal daily dose of the drug is 240 mg - 2 tablets each. or 2 ml oral solution 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is from 1 to 3 months.
Important! When using the drug, digestive disorders, allergic skin reactions, and headaches may occur.
Memoplant is a preparation containing 40 mg of dry standardized extract of Ginkgo biloba leaves, 9.6 mg of ginkgoflavone glycosides , 2.4 mg of terpene lactones and 0.2 μg of ginkgolic acid . The drug increases the body's resistance to hypoxia, especially brain tissue, inhibits the development of traumatic or toxic cerebral edema, improves cerebral and peripheral circulation, and has an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation factor. Organic (arising as a result of age-related circulatory disorders) and functional disorders of the brain with such manifestations as memory impairment, decreased ability to concentrate and intellectual capabilities, dizziness, tinnitus, headache. Disorders of the inner ear, manifested by dizziness, unsteady gait and tinnitus.
Use the drug 1-2 tablets. 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is at least 8 weeks.
HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES
Memoria (20, 50, 100 ml, bottle with drip dispenser) - 100 ml of the drug contains Hypericum D1 15 ml, Arnica D12 10 ml, Conium D6 10 ml, Ginkgo D6 10 ml, Panax D6 10 ml, ethyl alcohol 43% by weight. For the treatment of memory and concentration disorders, in the complex treatment of cerebral atherosclerosis, accompanied by headaches and dizziness. To ensure the greatest effectiveness, Memoria should be taken 30 minutes before. before or 1 hour after meals. At the onset of the disease, as well as in cases requiring rapid relief of symptoms, adults and adolescents can take 10 drops every half hour to hour, hold a little in the mouth before swallowing, take until the condition improves, but no more than 8 times, after which take 3 times a day. Since Memoria contains natural plant components, during storage there may be slight turbidity and a weakening of smell and taste, which does not lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of the drug.
Drugs that improve blood access to the brain
How to improve cerebral circulation with cervical osteochondrosis? The easiest way is to start taking medications that directly improve cerebral circulation.
- Cavinton is available in tablet form. When taken regularly, a vasodilating effect is achieved. There is also the drug Cavinton Forte, which contains twice as much active ingredient. When taken, side effects such as headache, dizziness, and drowsiness are possible. some patients, on the contrary, feel cheerful during the course of taking the drug and note an increase in performance.
- "Tanakan" is made from the plant extract of Ginkgo biloba. This plant is famous for its vasodilating effect. During treatment, patients note an improvement in their well-being - headaches go away, the person becomes cheerful, falls asleep and wakes up easier. "Tanakan" is indicated for use by patients with cervical osteochondrosis if they suffer from cerebrovascular accident.
Establishing a diagnosis
When the first suspicious symptoms appear, for example, frequent headaches, vertigo, hearing and vision disorders, you should contact a neurologist, reflexologist or vertebrologist.
Currently, the following instrumental methods are used to identify cerebral circulation disorders against the background of cervical osteochondrosis:
- Doppler ultrasound (Doppler ultrasound) of the neck vessels is used to assess the degree of vasoconstriction, as well as measure the speed of blood flow.
- Transcranial Doppler ultrasound is an ultrasound examination of the blood supply to the brain, which allows one to assess blood flow through intracranial vessels. This technique allows you to identify a violation of venous outflow, as well as arterial outflow, to identify spasm or local dilatation of blood vessels (aneurysm).
- X-rays of the spine are used to identify bone growths, as well as areas where the height of the vertebrae is reduced.
- Using magnetic resonance imaging, the doctor can assess the condition of the cartilage linings of the vertebrae, detect protrusions, hernias, and determine their size. In addition, this study is informative regarding blood vessels.
After confirming the diagnosis, the doctor draws up a treatment plan.
Nootropic drugs for cervical osteochondrosis
Nootropics can significantly improve the well-being of patients with osteochondrosis. The most frequently prescribed drugs:
- "Pantogam" (and its cheaper analogue called "Pantocalcin") today is prescribed even to children. While taking it, improvements in the cognitive sphere are observed, blood circulation is restored (partially or completely - depends on the degree of neurological disorders and diagnosis).
- It is advisable to take “Phenotropil” if, due to a cerebrovascular accident, the patient suffers from impaired attention, memory, and cannot concentrate. Patients who take Phenotropil note the appearance of vigor, vital activity, they are cheerful and efficient. The downside of the drug is its rather high cost (about a thousand rubles per package).
- "Cerebrolysin" is a drug in ampoules for intramuscular administration. The main active component is a peptide (extract from the brain of pigs), which in its structural formula resembles a human one. Typically, neurologists prescribe a course of ten to twenty injections daily. "Cerebrolysin" is a medicine that improves cerebral circulation in cervical osteochondrosis, after injuries and concussions, strokes, etc. This drug is also prescribed to children with delayed speech and mental development.
Complications
Due to prolonged compression of the vessels of the spinal cord as a result of osteochondrosis, circulatory disorders in the brain naturally develop, which leads to unpleasant consequences:
- Visual disturbances (blurred vision, double vision).
- Problems in organizing movements (unsteadiness when walking).
- Lack of mood, insomnia, fatigue.
- Changes in the vascular system.
- Frequent loss of consciousness.
- Neuropsychiatric disorders (memory loss, seizures, aggression).
- Development of epilepsy.
- Inability to perform usual activities.
- Dementia.
- Increased pain syndrome, for the relief of which it is necessary to start using psychotropic drugs, which have a large number of side effects, especially in relation to the psyche.
After the manifestation of the above symptoms, with inadequate treatment, a stroke may develop. In addition to all sorts of complications of cervical osteochondrosis, there is a possibility of complete loss of ability to work if the treatment was inadequate and untimely. To do this, you need to have an idea of all the effective means that normalize impaired blood circulation. But it is important to remember that self-medication is the wrong path to recovery. It is only within the competence of the attending physician to give recommendations on dosages, regimens and methods of administration of drugs.
The use of drugs with a venotonic effect for osteochondrosis
Neurologists prescribe this category of drugs relatively rarely. Venotonics can strengthen the walls of veins and arteries and improve their tone. Good cerebral circulation in cervical osteochondrosis is rare; patients often need to use venotonics in a course if there is a tendency to thinning of the venous walls. The most popular drugs in this category are Phlebodia, Detralex, Escusan. The latter also has the ability to cause short-term dilation of blood vessels due to the presence of alcohol in the composition.
However, patients with cervical osteochondrosis are usually skeptical when a doctor prescribes a drug from the venotonic category. People far from medicine believe that this category of drugs promotes recovery only in cases of severe vein pathology. In fact, even relatively healthy people should take a course of venotonic drugs from time to time.
Degrees of development of cervical osteochondrosis and their characteristic symptoms
The process of development of the disease proceeds quite slowly, but at the same time it has 4 clearly visible stages:
- 1st degree cervical osteochondrosis – discomfort and minor pain during prolonged walking or static position. The beginning of the formation of compactions in the intervertebral discs;
- Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, degree 2 – intense pain. In order to eliminate pain, manual therapy and appropriate medications are used;
- 3rd degree cervical osteochondrosis – the presence of severe lesions of the connective tissue of the affected area;
- Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, grade 4, is the final stage of the development of the disease, characterized by damage to almost all parts of the spine.
The last stage of development of the disease requires surgical intervention, which entails a long recovery.
Doctor prescribing diuretics and osmodiuretics for cervical osteochondrosis
This category of drugs is usually prescribed in cases where cervical osteochondrosis has led to increased intracranial pressure due to compression of the nerves. This symptom is characteristic of the later stages of the disease. If possible, it is better not to let the disease develop serious complications.
Taking diuretics for cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure (usually prescribed Furosemide or Diacarb) promotes the outflow of excess fluid from all body tissues, including brain tissue. As a result, the pressure stabilizes and the patient feels better.
Preventive measures
To prevent cerebrovascular accidents, a person must follow recommendations that will help him avoid diseases of the cervical spine and surrounding vessels:
- Eat right, watch your weight.
- Maintain a moderately active lifestyle, walk more often.
- When working sedentarily, get up every 2 hours and stretch your neck.
- Give up bad habits.
- Sign up for preventive massage courses.
- Get regular medical examinations to spot dangerous problems in time.
By adhering to these recommendations, a person will be able to maintain the health of the spine (including the cervical spine) for a long time.
Histaminergic drugs for cervical osteochondrosis: what are they prescribed for?
These drugs are prescribed if poor circulation due to cervical osteochondrosis has led to a lack of coordination and problems with the vestibular apparatus. Histaminergic drugs help normalize blood circulation and the functioning of the inner ear, as a result of which the severity of unpleasant symptoms becomes less. After a course of treatment, dizziness and vestibular disorders may go away for a long time.
Drugs for cerebral circulation in cervical osteochondrosis, which are usually prescribed by a doctor for complaints of problems with coordination - Betaserc, Betagistin, Vestibo. They must be taken in a course of at least ten days. If the patient has parallel pathologies of cardiac activity, then Betaserc can be prescribed for a long period - about several months. Histaminergic drugs have a number of contraindications and side effects, so they should be taken in case of emergency and only after consultation with doctors - a neurologist and cardiologist.
The need to normalize blood supply to the brain
Cervical osteochondrosis can lead to a significant deterioration in health. The danger lies in squeezing the nerve roots that extend to the spinal cord. In addition, blood vessels may be pinched, which will lead to deterioration in brain function due to impaired cerebral blood supply.
The spinal column contains important arteries responsible for supplying blood to the cerebellum. This organ is responsible for human motor functions, so the appearance of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can lead to various problems. In addition, special structures that are responsible for regulating body systems are concentrated in this place.
Blood is also delivered to the occipital region. In this place, information received through the organs of vision is processed. The temporal lobes work to hear sound. The vestibular apparatus, located in the middle ear, also suffers from poor circulation during the development of cervical osteochondrosis. Insufficient blood leads to tinnitus, headaches, nausea and dizziness. The patient may experience impaired coordination of movements. As a result of a malfunction in cerebral circulation, the functioning of the organs of hearing and vision deteriorates. If treatment is not carried out, an ischemic stroke may occur - the most dangerous consequence of a failure in blood circulation in osteochondrosis.
As a result of these phenomena, osteochondrosis leads to the formation of painful sensations. The body responds with vascular spasm, and existing bone growths (osteophytes) compress the arteries of the spine. This leads to irritation of the nerve formations, as a result of which the vessel contracts, cerebral circulation deteriorates, and spinal stenosis develops. Osteochondrosis is progressing.
Thus, the importance of vasodilator drugs is enormous. To eliminate cervical osteochondrosis and normalize cerebral circulation, it is recommended to consult a specialist. Such a measure is needed to conduct consultations and receive advice on the use of funds. You must follow the recommendations strictly without changing the dosage yourself. If you feel worse, you need to see your doctor again to choose a new medicine.
The patient must follow a daily routine and monitor his condition independently. Only in this case, drug treatment will allow you to get rid of the manifestations of osteochondrosis.
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Chondoprotectors for restoring articular surfaces and improving blood microcirculation
Tablets for cerebral circulation for cervical osteochondrosis should be taken regularly, in a course. Chondoprotectors are no exception to the rule. Since with cervical osteochondrosis, the layer between the vertebrae inevitably wears out and becomes thinner over time, the patient should take drugs with a chondoprotective effect at least once a year for at least one month. These are “Teraflex”, “Artron” or “Chondroitin”.
"Teraflex" is a combination drug with a chondoprotective effect. Sodium chondroitin sulfate (the main active component of Teraflex) is a high-molecular component directly involved in the formation of joints and cartilage. Indications for use of the drug: dystrophic changes in cartilage and joint tissue, chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system (osteochondrosis, scoliosis, osteoarthritis, etc.).
"Chondroitin" contains chondroitin sulfate as the main active ingredient. This component is a high molecular weight polysaccharide that is involved in the formation of joint and cartilage tissue. Indicated for use in a wide variety of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, as well as periodontitis, periodontal disease and joint diseases of unknown etiology. The downside of the drug is its rather high cost (about one and a half thousand rubles per package).
Features of nutrition in the treatment and prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
Proper nutrition is undoubtedly an important component of maintaining a healthy body.
In the context of the prevention or treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, diet is an auxiliary, but at the same time a very significant component.
The main goals of proper nutrition in the treatment or prevention of osteochondrosis are:
- eliminating the possibility of a deficiency of nutrients necessary for metabolic processes in the tissues of the intervertebral discs;
- maintaining optimal body weight;
- reducing the risk of developing vascular changes, preventing circulatory disorders.
Principles of diet
Nutrition for cervical osteochondrosis is based on the principles of rationality and functionality:
- Minimizing inhibitions - a healthy diet is varied, balanced and at the same time rich in all necessary substances.
- Compliance with the drinking regime is an important component in preventing tissue degradation of the intervertebral discs.
- Reducing salt consumption eliminates the possibility of increasing the load on blood vessels and ensures support of water and electrolyte balance.
- Limiting the consumption of starches and sugars in order to eliminate the possibility of metabolic disorders.
Prohibited and recommended foods
Nutrition in the treatment and prevention of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine requires the exclusion of products that clog the body, such as:
- alcohol, which disrupts the water-electrolyte balance and causes tissue dehydration;
- fatty meats and smoked meats that are difficult to digest;
- acidic, spicy dishes that increase inflammatory processes;
- semi-finished products that negatively affect digestion processes;
- sweets, sugar, which disrupt blood circulation.
The list of products recommended for consumption includes mainly easily digestible products of plant and animal origin, rich in protein, complex carbohydrates and fiber, including:
- chicken, rabbit, lean beef and pork;
- Fish and seafood;
- dairy products, eggs;
- cereals of various types;
- whole wheat bread;
- fruits, vegetables, berries and herbs.
Vitamin and mineral complexes
Preparations for cerebral circulation for cervical osteochondrosis containing B vitamins have long established themselves as a simple and reliable way to improve the patient’s condition. It has long been proven that when taken orally, B vitamins are not completely absorbed, but when administered intramuscularly, the necessary components enter directly into the bloodstream and rush to every corner of the body. Most often, neurologists prescribe the following drugs in the form of injections: Combilipen, Milgamma, Neuromultivit. You can buy ampoules of each vitamin separately - “Thiamin”, “Cyanocobalamin”, “Pyridoxine”. You can give yourself injections at home, or you can visit a doctor’s office at a clinic on a regular basis. The minimum course of injections for cervical osteochondrosis is ten days.
Pentovit can be used as tablets that improve cerebral circulation in cervical osteochondrosis. This drug contains the entire complex of B vitamins. Some neurologists prescribe a fairly high dosage, since it allows you to level out the difference between the amount of active substances that is completely absorbed by the body and the amount that came with the tablets. Patients with serious pathology should know how to improve blood circulation with cervical osteochondrosis. Preparations with B vitamins are a simple and affordable way to improve cerebral circulation and get rid of the symptoms that accompany this disorder.
What is the danger of cervical osteochondrosis?
A reduction in the level of mobility and limited flexibility of joints, loss of muscle elasticity and other signs of aging of the body are inevitable, natural processes that accompany a person in ontogenesis.
Annoying pain that occurs when moving much earlier than the natural period of aging often leads to loss of quality of life and even disability.
To determine how to treat cervical osteochondrosis, a professional consultation with your doctor is necessary. In the absence of professional, timely diagnosis and necessary treatment, the disease progresses, which can cause not just a deterioration in well-being, but also serious disruptions to the functioning of the nervous and vascular system.
Skin microcirculation in normal and pathological conditions
Intravital studies of microcirculation in the middle layers of the skin of the rat's back allowed us to clarify the anatomy of the vascular bed. This opportunity appeared thanks to the new research method we developed [1]. It was previously believed that the dermis contained a large number of arteriovenular anastomoses. It turned out that there is not a single such anastomosis, but there are many venulo-venular anastomoses. This anatomical feature is not accidental. The skin has many functions, among which two main ones can be distinguished: protective and storage (the skin is a blood storage organ). Low metabolism in the skin compared to other organs and the function of depositing large volumes of blood do not imply the presence of arteriolo-venular anastomoses.
Another feature of the skin is that it ranks first among other organs and tissues in terms of the density of lymphatic microvessels. In fact, the human body is protected from pathogenic environmental influences by a powerful lymphatic membrane. Studies have shown that stimulation of lymph flow in the body with the help of direct lymphostimulants of a peptide nature in the event of ultraviolet damage to blood microvessels with the development of stasis can restore microhemocirculation in the dermis and subcutaneous fatty tissue [1]. Subsequent testing of the effectiveness of lymphostimulants applied as an ointment to people's facial skin showed a rejuvenating effect. Thus, it can be assumed that any harmless methods of stimulating lymph flow will restore not only skin turgor, which is especially important in cosmetology, but also all its functions, which deteriorate with age, with dermatological diseases and various extreme exposures.
Since ancient times, massage has been an effective cosmetic remedy, the effect of which is largely determined by the stimulation of lymph flow. Nowadays, bilateral limb massage for neurogenic pathology works wonders. Moreover, stimulation of lymph flow, as experiments have shown, prevents the death of animals with cerebral ischemia [6] and increases survival in acute pulmonary edema by 2-2.5 times.
Consequently, by improving lymph and blood circulation, we relieve the symptoms of chronic stress and prevent the development of “adaptation diseases”. And by stimulating microcirculation in the skin, we not only have a positive effect on this organ, preventing the appearance of skin diseases and aesthetic defects and slowing down the processes of age-related involution, but also normalize the vital processes of the entire organism. In our opinion, in modern medicine this approach has not yet received enough attention. It is necessary to widely use various methods of stimulating the lymph flow of the skin to improve the health of the population. One of the factors that significantly reduces lymph and blood circulation in the dermis and hypodermis, without a doubt, is stress. Microcirculation in these areas is disrupted by both acute and chronic stress; we can observe these changes even externally. Pay attention to the face of a person who has been stressed or suffering from a serious illness. A sallow complexion indicates poor condition of internal organs and is a reflection of prolonged hypoxia of the body. When very frightened, a person turns pale. This is due to reflex vascular spasm, which under conditions of acute stress can be aggravated by the redistribution of blood flow between organs and further increase skin ischemia.
Pharmacological principles of stress treatment
Drug treatment for stress involves the use of the following drugs:
- various tranquilizers that have, along with therapeutic side effects, unfavorable properties;
- adrenoblockers and adrenolytics;
- activators of central and peripheral anti-stress mechanisms (GABA, antioxidants, prostaglandins, adenosine);
- blockers of mechanisms of damage to cells and non-cellular structures (impaired energy supply, damage to membranes, enzymes, genetic apparatus of cells, imbalance of ions and water, disorder of local regulatory mechanisms).
Non-drug ways to relieve chronic stress
The task of a cosmetologist, unlike doctors of other specialties, is not to treat the patient, but to improve his appearance. However, within the framework of existing methods, by influencing the microcirculation of the skin, it is possible to improve the condition of the entire organism. After all, the main target of any cosmetic effect is the skin, a huge organ in area, which is also reflexively connected with all internal organs. In addition, we are able to provide patients with simple but effective recommendations that will help prevent the development of chronic stress or reduce its consequences.
Music has the strongest influence on the human psyche. The appearance of the first sounds forces a person to listen, and therefore, to escape from his experiences. It is no coincidence that lovers of classical music often become people who have suffered severe shocks.
- Nature has a positive influence on humans by creating a sense of permanence. We look at the trees that were there yesterday, are there today and will be there tomorrow. This confidence calms a person who lives in an extremely rapidly changing world: a new job, a new family, new furniture, a car, one-time acquaintances, dishes, dresses. Our brain is not able to change and adapt to environmental changes so quickly. We need to create a stable living environment.
- Eating your favorite food is also calming, since food contains enkephalins and endorphins, which have analgesic, calming and mild hypnotic effects. Pierre Bezukhov, the hero of the novel by L. N. Tolstoy, who suffered stress during the battle on the Borodino field and in occupied Moscow, did not notice how much food he absorbed. It was a subconscious release of stress.
- Sports, physical activity, water treatments.
- Hobbies, interests: reading, collecting, sewing, knitting, etc.
- Sex.
- One of the effective ways to relieve chronic stress is work, and especially favorite work, where a person is forced to be distracted from his experiences.
- Communication with a psychoanalyst: although in our country this form is not very popular. Communication with close and friendly family and friends is more widespread. Don't lose them, but increase them. It is good for health and orientation in life. They say that every man must have two friends ten years older than himself in order to know what happened before; two contemporaries to correctly navigate today, and two friends ten years younger than him to know his future. One friend is a man, the other is a woman.
- Take your time and don’t worry if you are faced with a problem that cannot be solved today. Do not torment yourself with heavy thoughts, but leave the solution to the problem until the last moment. You will be very surprised that doubts have left you and you are confident in your decision. The brain worked on the problem around the clock.
- Don't rush to express your dissatisfaction. Set it aside for 24 hours. The reaction will be significantly reduced. Time cures.
- Never worry about what happened in the past. Think about not repeating mistakes in the future.