High Blood Pressure and Vein Disease
Are hypertension and vein diseases connected? We’ll take a closer look at the relationship between high blood pressure and vein disease.
Hypertension and venous hypertension are two types of high blood pressure that can seriously affect the body if not properly managed.
High blood pressure, known medically as hypertension, is a highly common medical issue affecting millions worldwide. Hypertension is a disorder causing an increase in the force of blood traveling through the arteries to the organ systems.
Venous hypertension, on the other hand, is a condition that affects the veins, especially the veins in the legs. It is characterized by increased blood pressure in the veins, which can lead to several symptoms.
Here is what you need to know about how venous hypertension affects vein health.
What Is Chronic Venous Hypertension?
Venous hypertension—elevated blood pressure in the veins throughout the legs—is a condition caused by a disorder known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
Chronic venous hypertension is a medical condition affecting blood pressure in the veins of the lower extremities. It occurs when the valves in the veins become disordered, leading to increased pressure and blood pooling in the legs.
Chronic venous hypertension results from numerous factors, including the following
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Family history of the condition
Additional risk factors may include a history of blood clots, trauma to the legs, or previous leg surgeries.
Common symptoms of chronic venous hypertension include leg pain, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the legs. It may also cause skin changes, such as thickening, discoloration, or ulcerations.
These symptoms often worsen with prolonged standing or sitting and improve with leg elevation or walking.
Does High Blood Pressure Affect Veins?
Veins transport oxygen-depleted blood to the heart from the body’s organ systems. To keep the blood flowing against gravity and toward the heart, veins have valves that inhibit the reversal of blood flow. However, CVI causes a dysfunction of the valves within the vein walls and valves over time. This impairment is called venous hypertension.
When venous hypertension occurs, blood collects in the veins, especially the veins within the lower half of the body. The condition can lead to numerous vascular issues, including the following
- Varicose veins
- Spider veins
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Leg ulcers
- Leg discoloration
- Leg swelling
Does High Blood Pressure Cause Varicose Veins?
Venous hypertension—high vein blood pressure throughout the legs—is the primary cause of varicose veins.
Veins have valves that help regulate blood flow back to the heart. When these valves become compromised or ineffective, blood can travel backward, causing increased stress and congestion in the veins.
Varicose veins are a common indication of chronic venous hypertension. They are enlarged, spiraled, superficial, visible veins beneath the skin. They most commonly appear in the legs due to the elevated pressure in the veins caused by standing and walking upright. Varicose veins sometimes create substantial pain and discomfort. In advanced cases, they can trigger skin changes such as ulcers.
Are Deep Vein Thrombosis and Blood Pressure Related?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially serious medical disorder caused by the generation of blood clots within the deep veins, most commonly in the legs.
While DVT and blood pressure are related, it is essential to note that venous hypertension does not directly cause DVT. However, it can increase the risk of developing DVT. Venous hypertension creates an environment conducive to blood clot formation by causing blood stasis—poor circulation—and impairing the normal function of the veins.
When blood flow is slowed down or disrupted due to venous hypertension, it can lead to the pooling of blood in the veins. This stagnant blood can form clots, especially in the deep veins of the lower limbs. The clots that form can partially or completely obstruct the blood flow, leading to DVT.
Furthermore, venous hypertension can also damage the valves within the veins. These valves play a crucial role in preventing the backward flow of blood. When the valves are impaired, blood can flow backward and accumulate, increasing venous pressure and a higher risk of clot formation.
Several factors contribute to the development of DVT, including prolonged immobility, surgery, trauma, obesity, and certain medical conditions. Venous hypertension can be one of the underlying causes or exacerbating issues in these situations.
Georgia Endovascular: Trusted Vascular Specialists
Georgia Endovascular is a trusted medical facility that specializes in providing top-notch treatment for varicose veins, spider veins, and associated venous diseases. With a commitment to delivering superior care, we offer various advanced procedures to address these common vascular conditions.
If you are concerned about your vein health, please don’t hesitate to contact our helpful representatives in Atlanta today at 678-915-2000.
