Does varicose veins cause blood clots?

Varicose veins are one of many possible conditions in which blood clots can form. While varicose veins are one of the most common occurrences, blood clots can form deep within a muscle, in a serious condition known as deep vein thrombosis.

Do varicose veins increase risk of blood clot?

While there’s still research to be done, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that people with varicose veins are five times more likely to develop deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is similar to superficial thrombophlebitis, but the blood clot forms in a deeper, larger vein.

How do you treat a blood clot in varicose veins?

For superficial thrombophlebitis, your doctor might recommend applying heat to the painful area, elevating the affected leg, using an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and possibly wearing compression stockings. The condition usually improves on its own.

Does varicose veins mean blood clot?

Varicose veins are a sign of possible blood clots forming because varicose veins develop when valves in the veins leading out from your legs fail to operate properly. This causes the blood to pool and swell the affected vein, causing varicose veins to form.

What problems can varicose veins cause?

Varicose veins are common, and affect more women than men. They do not cause problems for most people. However, if the flow of blood through veins becomes worse, problems such as leg swelling and pain, blood clots, and skin changes may be present.

When should you worry about varicose veins?

If you have varicose veins and experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to give your doctor a call: Severe and continuous pain and swelling in the legs. Heaviness and/or dull, achy feeling in the legs at the end of the day, or after physical activity.

Can you have a blood clot in your leg for years?

Blood clots can wreak havoc on your veins, leading to symptoms that can last for years.

What happens if I get a blood clot in my leg?

A blood clot in a leg vein may cause pain, warmth and tenderness in the affected area. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling but also can occur with no symptoms.

Is heat good for blood clots?

Treatment includes medicines to ease pain and inflammation, break up clots and keep new clots from forming. Keeping the affected area raised and applying moist heat can also help. If you are taking a long car or plane trip, take a break, walk or stretch your legs and drink plenty of liquids.

How common are blood clots after varicose vein surgery?

REPORTED DATA ON THE INCIDENCE OF THROMBOEMBOLISM AFTER VARICOSE VEIN SURGERY. The comparison of published data on thrombosis and pulmonary embolism following varicose vein surgery reveals an astonishing discrepancy of 1:350, ranging from 0.015%¹ to 5.3%.

Can drinking water help varicose veins?

Stay hydrated

Dehydration has a specific effect on the legs. It causes the tissues to swell and the muscles to cramp. Individuals with varicose veins feel these changes acutely in the form of aching and soreness. Drinking lots of water is the best way to stay hydrated.

Is walking good for varicose veins?

Exercise can increase your body’s ability to pump blood up the leg back toward the heart. It also helps keep your weight down, which further decreases your chances of getting varicose veins. Walking is a good choice, as are low-impact activities, such as swimming and biking.

What foods are bad for varicose veins?