May-Thurner syndrome can cause one-sided leg swelling, especially if you notice swelling, heaviness, or aching in your left leg. Symptoms by themselves don’t confirm the diagnosis, but if your left leg swelling keeps coming back, it’s time for a vascular evaluation.
At Vascular Surgery Associates, you’ll find a team that evaluates venous conditions like May-Thurner syndrome in Los Angeles and Santa Monica. We look for vein compression that could be affecting your blood flow.
What Is May-Thurner Syndrome?
May-Thurner syndrome happens when the right iliac artery presses against the left iliac vein in the pelvis. According to Cleveland Clinic’s overview of May-Thurner syndrome, this pressure can slow blood flow from the left leg back toward the heart.
You might have vein compression without any obvious symptoms, or you could notice leg swelling, heaviness, aching, skin color changes, visible veins, or a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Since these symptoms can overlap with other vein issues, it’s important not to guess at home.
When Should One-Sided Leg Swelling Be Checked?
According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, symptoms of May-Thurner syndrome can include chronic left leg pain, heaviness, swelling, varicose veins, skin changes, or sudden severe swelling if a clot forms.
You should consider seeing a vascular specialist if:
- One leg is noticeably more swollen than the other.
- Swelling comes with heaviness, aching, pain, or changes in skin color.
- You see new or worsening varicose veins on one side.
- You have a history of DVT or have been told you may have venous compression.
- Symptoms keep coming back after rest, elevation, or compression.
Sudden chest pain, trouble breathing, or symptoms of a possible pulmonary embolism need emergency care.
How Is May-Thurner Syndrome Diagnosed and Treated?
A vascular specialist can use imaging to check your blood flow and see if there’s iliac vein compression. Depending on your symptoms, you might need an ultrasound, CT or MRI imaging, venography, or intravascular ultrasound.
Your treatment depends on what we find during your evaluation. If you don’t have symptoms, you might not need treatment. Mild symptoms can often improve with compression. If your symptoms are more significant or you have concerns about clots, procedures like angioplasty or venous stenting may help. At Vascular Surgery Associates, we offer May-Thurner syndrome treatment in Los Angeles and Santa Monica.
Why Choose VSA for May-Thurner Syndrome Evaluation?
At Vascular Surgery Associates, you get vascular imaging, venous disease care, and minimally invasive treatment planning all in one place. Our approach helps when your symptoms point to a deeper circulation issue instead of a simple surface vein concern.
For added expertise, Dr. Rameen Moridzadeh has training in vascular and endovascular surgery and has published work on venography-guided treatment for patients with May-Thurner syndrome. He is part of the VSA team serving Los Angeles and Santa Monica.
FAQ
Can May-Thurner syndrome cause swelling in only one leg?
Yes. May-Thurner syndrome often affects the left leg because of the way the iliac artery and vein cross in the pelvis. Swelling, heaviness, pain, visible veins, or skin changes can occur.
Is one-sided leg swelling always May-Thurner syndrome?
No. One-sided leg swelling can come from several causes, including vein disease, injury, infection, or a blood clot. A vascular evaluation can identify whether iliac vein compression is part of the problem.
Schedule a Vascular Consultation in Los Angeles or Santa Monica
If you’re dealing with persistent one-sided leg swelling, leg heaviness, or concerns about May-Thurner syndrome, reach out to Vascular Surgery Associates. Our Los Angeles and Santa Monica offices will evaluate your symptoms, review any imaging you may need, and discuss your treatment options.
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