Since the introduction of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, questions have arisen about a rare but serious blood-clotting complication associated with it. For individuals living with vein disease, including varicose veins, spider veins, venous insufficiency, and other vein problems, it’s natural to wonder whether this vaccine-related risk is connected to conditions that already affect circulation.
If you’re dealing with the far more frequent health conditions that include varicose veins, spider veins, or venous insufficiency, don’t wait until vein problems worsen. At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), our board-certified vein specialists can evaluate your leg symptoms and recommend the safest, most effective vein treatment options for long-term relief. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward healthier circulation.
This article reviews the latest research on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and blood clots, explains how this risk compares to common vein disorders, and highlights steps you can take to protect your vein health.
👉Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward healthier circulation.
In April 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) temporarily paused use of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine after several cases of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) with low platelet counts were reported. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare type of stroke that happens when a blood clot blocks the brain’s venous sinuses, preventing blood from draining properly. This blockage causes pressure to build up, which can lead to brain swelling, bleeding, and serious complications if not treated right away.
This rare condition, also known as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), is most commonly identified in women between the ages of 30 and 49 within two weeks of vaccination, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
By 2022, approximately 60 confirmed TTS cases had been reported in the U.S., with nine deaths. While the numbers are considered small, on the order of just a few cases per million doses, the FDA limited use of the vaccine to adults who cannot or should not receive mRNA vaccines. Speak with your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.
Research to date has not found a connection between varicose veins, spider veins, venous insufficiency, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and vaccine-related clots, according to the Stop the Clot Foundation. While these conditions affect circulation and increase the risk of clotting in other ways, there is no evidence that they increase the likelihood of developing the rare TTS syndrome after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are caused by weakened or damaged vein valves that allow blood to flow backward and pool, creating enlarged, twisted veins. They often develop with age, genetics, or prolonged standing.
Spider Veins
Spider veins form when small blood vessels near the surface of the skin dilate due to pressure, hormonal changes, or sun exposure. They are usually harmless but can signal early vein issues.
Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in the leg veins don’t work correctly, making it harder for blood to return to the heart. This can lead to leg pain, swelling, and occasionally, skin changes.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
DVT happens when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the legs, due to slowed blood flow, vein injury, or clotting disorders. It can become life-threatening if the clot travels to the lungs.
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a progressive condition, and untreated varicose veins don’t just stay the same. These bulging veins can lead to painful complications like skin discoloration, infections, venous ulcers, and even dangerous blood clots (DVT). Protect your health by addressing vein problems early.
Schedule a consultation with a vein specialist today and take control of your circulation before symptoms advance🔽
One of the concerns after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is distinguishing normal post-vaccination aches from more serious symptoms, such as leg pain or swelling. According to the CDC, most side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine, such as muscle aches and fatigue, are mild and temporary.
However, persistent pain or swelling in one leg, especially if it occurs between six and 15 days after vaccination, could signal a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or, in extremely rare cases, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), according to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Seeking prompt medical care is critical to rule out a serious clot.
Although rare, blood clots associated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine require urgent medical attention. Seek immediate help if you notice:
These symptoms, especially if they occur 6–15 days after vaccination, may indicate DVT, pulmonary embolism, or in very rare cases, TTS.
Worried about a possible blood clot? Center for Vein Restoration offers a DVT rule-out service, making it easy to get checked for a blood clot. You’ll receive an ultrasound scan, treatment if needed, and follow-up care, all in one place, without the need for an expensive and time-consuming trip to the ER. Call 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388) to schedule.
Understanding what causes varicose veins helps put vein health into context. Common risk factors include:
If vein disease is causing leg pain, swelling, or visible vein problems, Center for Vein Restoration vein centers offer safe, minimally invasive outpatient procedures, such as:
The Mayo Clinic confirms that these treatments improve comfort, restore circulation, and reduce the risk of complications.
If you are experiencing vein problems or want to explore treatment options, schedule a consultation with a vein specialist at a trusted vein center such as Center for Vein Restoration. Expert evaluation and care can help alleviate symptoms, enhance circulation, and maintain vascular health.
News about rare blood clots linked to the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine has understandably raised concerns. But it’s important to remember that these cases are extremely uncommon, while vein disease is one of the most common causes of leg pain and swelling. If you’re experiencing heaviness, throbbing, or swelling in your legs, chances are it’s due to an underlying vein problem.
A consultation with a Center for Vein Restoration vein specialist can provide answers, peace of mind, and effective treatment options to restore your comfort and circulation.
About Vein Disease
Spider Veins
Varicose Veins
Vein Disease Treatments
Treating Spider Veins
Treating Varicose Veins
About Us
Patient Resources
Physician Resources