Varicose veins of the chest
Varicose veins of the chest are swollen, twisted veins that become prominent on the surface of the chest. Varicose veins primarily occur in the legs, but they can appear in other areas of the body, including the chest. Common causes of varicose veins of the chest include:
- Superior Vena Cava Syndrome (SVCS): This condition involves the obstruction of the superior vena cava, the large vein that carries blood from the upper body to the heart. When this vein is blocked, it causes increased pressure in the veins of the upper body, including those in the chest, leading to varicose veins.
- Venous Obstruction or Compression: Any obstruction or compression of the veins in the chest area can lead to increased pressure and the development of varicose veins.
- Trauma or Injury: Physical trauma or injury to the chest area can damage the veins and lead to the development of varicose veins.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or tumors, can cause increased pressure in the chest veins, resulting in varicose veins.
- Surgery or Medical Procedures: Previous surgeries or medical procedures that affect the chest area can disrupt normal blood flow and lead to the development of varicose veins.
Varicose veins of the chest can appear as enlarged, twisted veins that are visible under the skin and may be associated with other symptoms like swelling, pain, or a feeling of fullness in the chest. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include managing the primary condition causing the varicose veins, as well as using compression garments or undergoing procedures to reduce vein pressure.
Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology