According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, there is a connection between varicose vein disease and deep vein thrombosis, more commonly known as blood clots.
Findings of the Study
Researchers in Taiwan studied 425,968 adults over age 20 who were diagnosed with varicose veins between 2001 and 2013. Those with a medical history of deep vein thrombosis, peripheral artery disease and pulmonary embolism were excluded from the study.
After close observation against a control group of people without varicose veins, researchers came to the following conclusion: “Among adults diagnosed with varicose veins, there was a significantly increased risk of incident DVT.” Further research is required to determine if varicose veins and blood clots have the same cause or if one condition can cause the other.
Varicose Veins vs. Blood Clots
Varicose veins can occur when the vein valves in the lower legs malfunction. Blood pools in the legs, which causes the gnarled appearance that many of us have seen before. Varicose vein disease is a medical condition that can lead to further health problems if left untreated. For instance, deep vein thrombosis can result if blood is unable to circulate back to the heart. In medical terms, blood platelets can stick together in these malfunctioning veins and cause blood clots. This medical condition can be fatal, so it’s important to know your risks and keep prevention in mind:
- Symptoms include leg cramping, leg soreness and skin discoloration
- Complications can result in pulmonary embolism and postphlebitic syndrome
- Maintain a healthy weight with diet, exercise and enough sleep at night
- Make sure you get up and move at least every 4 hours to keep circulation going
To find out if you’re at risk for developing varicose vein disease or blood clots, see a doctor. If you already have varicose veins, it’s important to get treated. At the Vein Centers of Connecticut, our modern vein treatments will have you back on your feet in no time. To learn more, contact our New Britain or Wallingford office today!