Have you ever noticed that some people seem to get varicose veins, but others don’t?
If so, you’re not alone. It turned out that a number of factors can lead to varicosity.
If you’re interested in this topic, then this post is for you. We look at the main causes of varicose veins and whether you might be at risk.
Genetics
One of the big explainers of varicose veins is, of course, genetics. Some people are significantly more susceptible to them than others.
The reason for this comes from inherited weaknesses in the valves that prevent the backflow of blood. In people with genetic weakness, these can give out over time, leading to the appearance of varicosity. Weak vein walls can also play a role, failing to keep blood in place.
Pregnancy
If you’re a woman, pregnancy can also lead to varicose veins. The growing baby in the uterus compresses the pelvic veins, leading to some varicosity.
Interestingly, these varicose veins will often reverse themselves. Once the pressure is removed, post-partum women often find that things just go back to normal naturally.
Aging
Another common culprit is aging. As people get older, the strength and flexibility of their veins decreases, increasing the likelihood of bulging.
Research shows that veins lose around 50% of their elasticity by age 70. That’s why varicose veins are much more common among people in this age group.
Standing Or Sitting Jobs
Moving onto lifestyle factors, varicose veins tend to be significantly more common among those with standing and sitting jobs, compared to those that alternate between the two.
For standing jobs, blood can pool excessively in the legs and lower body, putting pressure on veins. For sitting jobs, the constant pressure on the buttocks is what causes the harm.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to find active jobs that involve both standing and sitting. These appear to minimize overall risk of developing varicose veins in the first place.
Obesity
Some people also get varicose veins because of obesity. Being severely overweight increases abdominal pressure, which then makes varicose veins more likely.
According to research, every 10 pound gain in weight leads to 25% higher inflammation. This additional stress on the body weakens the vein walls and makes them more susceptible to bulging outwards.
Hormone Shifts
Interestingly, hormone shifts can play a role. Women with high estrogen levels are more likely to get varicose veins because it weakens vein walls. Other interventions, like birth control and HRT also play a role.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much that can be done to mitigate the effects of hormone shifts. However, a healthy lifestyle, as always, is probably the best defence.
Blood Clots
Finally, blood clots are a leading reason for varicose veins. Whenever blood gets trapped or pooled, it can cause the vein itself to lose its structure and bulge outwards. Partly, this is a defensive adaptation, but it can also be annoying and painful.
If you’re at risk of blood clots, speak to your doctor. Ask them for medications that thin the blood.
