Understanding the Connection Between Varicose Veins & Heart Health

Varicose veins affect up to 35% of the U.S. population at some point in their lives, with women being more commonly affected than men. According to the American Vein & Lymphatic Society, 25% of adults suffer from chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that can lead to varicose veins.

Varicose veins occur when blood pools inside the veins due to valve failure, preventing proper blood flow. This leads to painful, achy, blue bulges, most commonly in the legs. While many individuals see varicose veins as a cosmetic concern, it’s important to understand if and how this condition is related to heart health.

The Role of the Arterial System in Heart Health
Coronary artery disease, one of the leading causes of heart complications, results from damage to the arteries responsible for transporting blood to and from the heart. This damage is often caused by the buildup of plaque, which reduces blood flow and causes symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain.

Heart problems may exacerbate the appearance of varicose veins, as poor cardiac function can increase pressure in the veins. This leads to excess fluid pooling in the tissues, often causing leg swelling and increased pain in existing varicose veins. While heart issues may worsen the symptoms, they do not cause hypertension or directly lead to venous insufficiency.

Treating underlying heart conditions may improve venous health. For example, managing fluid retention and improving circulation can reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with varicose veins. Compression therapy and other treatments can also help alleviate symptoms, providing patients with a non-invasive option for managing their condition.

Understanding Venous Insufficiency
Venous insufficiency, the root cause of varicose veins, does not threaten heart health. Untreated heart problems can increase the severity of symptoms, making it crucial to address both venous and cardiac conditions in patients experiencing both.

When to Seek Treatment for Varicose Veins
While varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic issue, they can cause significant discomfort and affect your quality of life. The good news is that treatment options are available, and you don’t have to live with the pain and unsightly appearance of varicose veins. Seeking medical intervention can help alleviate discomfort and improve the appearance of the veins.

It’s important to prioritize heart health and seek treatment for any cardiovascular conditions as soon as possible. Addressing heart problems can have a positive effect on varicose veins. Specialized care for venous insufficiency should be sought from a vascular specialist. They can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options, ranging from lifestyle modifications to more advanced procedures, such as sclerotherapy or endovenous laser treatment (EVLT).

Advanced Treatment Options for Varicose Veins
At Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center, we offer comprehensive care for patients suffering from varicose veins. Our team of experts uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment methods to provide relief from venous insufficiency.

• Compression Therapy: A conservative approach often used as a first-line treatment, compression therapy can reduce swelling and improve blood flow, helping to manage symptoms.
• Sclerotherapy: A minimally invasive procedure where a solution is injected into the varicose veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time.
• Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): Using laser energy, this procedure targets the damaged veins, causing them to close and reroute blood flow to healthier veins.
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Similar to EVLT, this method uses radiofrequency energy to seal off problematic veins.
• Varithena: Varithena is minimally invasive and doesn’t involve surgical vein stripping, removing the associated risks. You avoid general anesthesia, sedation and incisions. Varithena does not require multiple injections to numb the treatment site, unlike most thermal procedures, and doesn’t leave permanent foreign bodies behind after treatment.
• Micropheleblectomy: The procedure is performed by making a tiny 1-2mm micro-incision and the vein is teased out with a small hook. It is then divided and removed. The incisions are so small that stitches are not needed to close them. They heal with excellent cosmetic results with only a butterfly closure.

• Ultra Sound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy: is unique because it removes unsightly or unhealthy veins without stripping them. First, an ultrasound will be used to find the affected vein, and then a needle is inserted to inject a sclerosing agent into the vein being treated. This agent causes a chemical reaction, which causes the vein to collapse leaving the body to then absorb that vein. This removes the varicose vein without creating any scarring or skin conditions. Veins generally need two to three treatments, and patients enjoy long-lasting cosmetic results afterward.

By addressing varicose veins early, you can prevent complications like skin ulcers and bleeding, while also improving the appearance of your legs.
Get support for your veins and circulation problems today.

You may need medical treatment for your veins, and the Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center wants to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you live better. Our board-certified Vascular Surgeons and Phlebologists specialize in minimally invasive vein therapy.

For more information regarding the prevention of varicose veins, please see our blog at: https://cfvein.com/blog/heart-conditions/

Central Florida Vain & Vascular Center

(352) 562-0078 . www.cfvein.com
13953 NE 86th Terrace, Unit 101
Lady Lake, FL 32159

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