Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

What Causes May-Thurner Syndrome?

If you develop a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially if it’s in your left leg, you could’ve had a condition called May-Thurner syndrome for months or years and not known it. In many patients with DVT, May-Thurner syndrome is revealed after the fact, explaining why they were at risk for a blood clot.

At Memphis Vein Center in Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. Kishore K. Arcot can check for and diagnose May-Thurner syndrome and assess your risk for additional health problems like a DVT.  

What causes May-Thurner syndrome?

Your blood runs in a loop, carried away from your heart to your extremities by arteries to deliver oxygen, then returned to your heart through veins. The iliac arteries are located in the pelvis, and feed oxygenated blood to your legs. The corresponding iliac veins bring blood from the legs back to the heart.

The right iliac artery crosses over the left iliac vein. Sometimes, the artery can compress the vein at that point. This creates the same effect as stepping on a garden hose; it narrows the vein and slows the flow of blood, which may cause swelling in the left leg as well as other symptoms. This iliac compression is called May-Thurner syndrome

It can also happen (although more rarely) on the right side or both sides at once.    

Symptoms of May-Thurner syndrome

Most people have no symptoms, so they don’t realize they have this condition. 

However, when symptoms of May-Thurner syndrome are present, they may include:

Risks associated with May-Thurner syndrome

May-Thurner syndrome is more common in women than in men. The primary concern for patients with the condition is the increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot that forms in a leg vein. If the clot breaks off and travels through the bloodstream, it can reach the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. 

In a study of more than 1,000 people with DVT, May-Thurner syndrome was the underlying cause in 46% of patients.  

Treating May-Thurner syndrome

The treatment for May-Thurner syndrome typically involves one of three approaches:

If you have symptoms associated with May-Thurner syndrome or DVT, it’s important to contact us as soon as possible. Dr. Arcot can evaluate your risks and recommend the best treatment for you. Contact us at 901-310-2771 or request an appointment online. 

You Might Also Enjoy...

The Dangers of DVT

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) develops in your legs, and from there, the blood clot can travel to your lungs and turn into a life-threatening condition. Here’s everything you need to know about DVT and the potential dangers it poses to your health.

The Link Between Diabetes and Leg Ulcers

Though diabetes is most often associated with foot ulcers, high blood sugar also causes vascular disease, which leads to leg ulcers. No matter where they’re located, ulcers need immediate medical care to prevent serious health complications.

Do My Varicose Veins Pose a Danger to My Health?

Varicose veins are definitely an unattractive, cosmetic problem, but do they also pose a danger to your health? The answer is yes. But most of the potential complications arise from the underlying condition that causes varicose veins.

How Coiling Can Treat Your Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Did you know that many women with chronic pelvic pain have a condition called pelvic congestion syndrome? To find help, you need to consult a vascular specialist, learn if you have the condition, and discover how coiling can ease your pain.

Chest Pain Plus Nausea: What Does it Mean?

Chest pain with nausea can be confusing. These symptoms may be the result of gastrointestinal conditions, or they can signal a heart attack that needs immediate treatment. Here, you’ll learn about the possible causes and when to seek help.

4 Different Treatments for Varicose Veins

As bulging, twisted, purple-blue varicose veins appear in your legs, you may find them embarrassing and painful. But you don’t need to put up varicose veins; you can choose from multiple different treatments that permanently eliminate the problem.