Feeling the cold is a complaint often underplayed by GPs but can be a sign of varicose veins, scientists warn. A study has shown people reporting moderate to severe cold hypersensitivity have a 49% to 89% higher risk of developing varicose veins.
Varicose veins are usually caused by impaired functioning of the deep or superficial veins, and the perforator veins – the short veins that link the superficial and deep venous systems in the legs. Data tracking 8,800 people from 2008 to 2020 looked at the link between how much they said they felt the cold and their chances of developing varicose veins.
Dr Yung-Po Liaw, of Chung Shan Medical University in Taiwan, said: “In clinical practice, the sensation of coldness is usually relegated to a secondary position among the many varicose vein symptoms. This relegation is attributed to its subjectivity and the consequent ease with which it can be overlooked.
“However, our study showed the presence of a moderate-to-severe degree of hypersensitivity to cold in the lower extremities, which has hitherto been underestimated as a subjective symptom associated with varicose veins.”
In the UK up to 75% of the adult population is thought to have varicose veins but not everyone experiences symptoms. Not all are visible. They are caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves. Veins have one-way valves inside them that open and close to keep blood flowing toward the heart. Weak or damaged valves or walls in the veins can cause blood to pool and even flow backward.
The study drew on the Taiwan Biobank database of participants aged 30 to 70 who provided medical records, genetic samples and a host of lifestyle data. Some 8,782 had moderate and severe varicose veins and they were questioned about their hypersensitivity to cold in their feet and the extent to which they felt heaviness in their legs.
Experts analysed the data showing 1,535 participants said they were moderately hypersensitive to the cold and 9% of these had varicose veins. Some 1,359 said they were extremely hypersensitive to the cold, 14% of whom had varicose veins. This compared to 5,888 who said they were not hypersensitive to the cold and 6% of this group had varicose veins.
Statistical analysis attempted to factor in other things which may affect the risk of varicose veins such as age, weight, diet and smoking status. After this was completed moderate to severe cold hypersensitivity was associated with a 49% to 89% heightened likelihood of varicose veins compared with no hypersensitivity. Four times as many people with varicose veins had heavy legs as those without the condition.
Job type was also an influential factor and jobs involving prolonged standing were associated with a 45% higher likelihood of varicose veins.
Dr Yung-Po Liaw added: “Healthcare providers frequently underestimate the gravity and implications of varicose veins, leading to their neglect, and there is usually a gap in understanding the comprehensive spectrum of linked symptoms. Of note is the significance of the concurrent symptoms of heaviness and cold feet. When these symptoms coexist, the likelihood of confirming the presence of varicose veins is notably amplified compared with individuals without such symptoms.”
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