Are May-Thurner syndrome and pelvic congestive syndrome linked?
I have both syndromes and noticed more people are getting diagnosed with both. I also read that a lack of serotonin in the brain may cause vascular issues, and I also have OCD. Is this the case?
Answers from doctors (8)
May-Thurner is due to left iliac vein compression by the crossing right common iliac artery. In some people, this crossing will compress the left iliac vein, leading to leg swelling and increased pelvic pressure due to increased collateral vein formation around the narrowed iliac vein. This can lead to pelvic congestion. There is no relation to serotonin levels or OCD.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
To my knowledge, they are not linked. I think any problems with serotonin and vascular issues are confined to the brain.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I would discuss this matter with your doctor. Lots of testing would be needed to diagnose.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
May-Thurner syndrome is actually due to a physical obstruction of your iliac vein on one side. Pelvic congestion syndrome is typically due to the presence of varicose vein disease in the pelvic cavity. They are not directly related. Serotonin is a hormone in the brain that can affect smooth muscle tone. For this reason, in theory it can case vascular issues. However, it has nothing to do with your issues.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The two syndromes are unrelated.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
There isn't any convincing evidence the two syndromes are linked, other than female predominance. No, OCD disorder isn't a cause of vascular disease and as far as I know there is no association.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
May–Thurner syndrome is a rare condition in which compression of the common venous outflow tract of the left lower extremity may cause discomfort, swelling, pain or blood clots, called deep venous thrombosis, in the iliofemoral vein.
Pelvic congestion syndrome is a chronic medical condition in women caused by varicose veins in the lower abdomen. The condition causes chronic pain, often manifesting as a constant dull ache, which can be aggravated by standing.
I don't think anyone has proven that a link exists between these syndromes and low serotonin levels.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes, can cause similar symptoms. May-Thurner is generally caused by compression of the left iliac vein, which can result in engorgement of the pelvic vessels, resulting in pain. Typically pelvic congestion syndrome is due to reflux in the ovarian vein resulting in "varicose" veins in the pelvis, resulting in pain in the pelvis. One or both can be present at the same time.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
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