Do Varicose Veins Indicate Heart Disease?
- Posted on: Dec 30 2017
Varicose veins have largely been perceived as a cosmetic problem. They are more than this. The discomfort that bulging, ropy veins present can make it difficult to engage in physical activities, even something as mild as walking. The insufficiency of blood flow from the lower extremities back to the heart may also present a bit of stress. Because blood flow is largely related to a functional, healthy heart, there may be a question as to whether or not varicose veins indicate heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions.
Interestingly enough, research does not suggest a correlation between poor vein health and poor heart health. This is good news for the person with vein disease such as varicose veins. It means that focus can be placed on the treatment of dysfunctional valves in the lower extremities and management of optimal blood flow through functional veins. Heart patients with right-sided heart failure may have a higher risk for elevated venous pressure in the lower extremities, which could present a risk for swelling and infection. With proper care, these risks can be managed.
So, what is the cause?
If varicose veins are not an indication of heart disease and insufficient cardiac output, what does cause the valves in leg veins to fail? According to studies, genetics is the primary factor that predisposes a person to this condition. There may also be a hormonal factor, judging by the fact that women are more likely to suffer vein disease than men. However, this has not been confirmed. Finally, weight can instigate the development or worsen varicose veins.
Reason to Treat
There is a good reason to have varicose veins treated even without a correlation to heart disease. Appearance is just one of them. Treating varicose veins means feeling more confident, and also more comfortable. Without the persistent pain of insufficient veins, many people have found it possible to stay more active, thus reducing their risk for future vein issues.
In our vein clinics in Sewickley, Wexford, Beaver, and Grove City, treatment options such as sclerotherapy and endovenous laser ablation are popular methods of redirecting blood to healthy veins. Many of the vein treatments that are performed today are minimally invasive and require little downtime if any. Discover what it feels like to be free of varicose veins. Call 412-741-0480.
Posted in: Varicose Veins