The Truth Might Surprise You
You may have heard that there is a link between varicose veins and heart disease. After all, they are both related to circulation problems. And while it's true that the symptoms of someone who has both conditions could be more pronounced, the truth is that there is no direct link between the two. Here's what you need to know.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are caused by weak or damaged valves in the veins. These valves are responsible for keeping blood flowing in the right direction, from the legs back to the heart. When they don't work correctly, blood can start to pool in the veins, causing them to become enlarged and twisted.
What Causes Heart Disease?
Heart disease is usually caused by a combination of genetics, lifestyle choices, and other health conditions. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are risk factors for heart disease. Diet is also a major factor.
The Link Between Varicose Veins and Heart Disease
If you have varicose veins, you may be wondering if they put you at risk for heart disease. The truth is that there is no direct link between the two conditions. However, they can share some risk factors, such as obesity and diabetes. And as mentioned above, the symptoms of someone who has both conditions could be more pronounced.
Helping Patients Support Healthy Veins
At Albert Vein Institute, we are dedicated to helping our patients maintain healthy veins. Talk to us if you're concerned about your risk for certain conditions like spider veins, varicose veins, and more. We can help you assess your risk factors and develop a plan to reduce your chances of having health issues.
Ready to get started? Please contact us today to schedule an appointment.