Varicose veins are twisted, swollen veins visible beneath the skin. They form when internal valves in veins weaken, and blood flows backward, pooling instead of moving back toward the heart. Varicose veins may cause symptoms like aching, burning, swelling, cramping, or heaviness. Here are five causes of varicose veins that require a visit to a vein clinic:
1. Age
As you age, your veins lose elasticity, which weakens their valves and walls. Vein walls composed of collagen and elastin become stiffer over time, compromising their ability to support blood circulation. Age-related degenerative changes may contribute to varicose vein formation in your later years. Veins widen with age, causing blood to fall backward due to weaker valves. Seek a medical evaluation at a vein treatment center and take steps to enhance your vein health.
2. Hormonal Changes
Female hormones may relax the muscles of vein walls and valves, predisposing women to varicose veins. Puberty, birth control pills, pregnancy, and menopause each trigger hormone fluctuations that weaken veins. Progesterone relaxes vein walls, undermining elasticity. Hormonal shifts mask the cause of venous issues but prompt abnormalities.
Women may notice symptoms during and after pregnancy as enlarged veins fail to direct circulatory flow. Weight gain during pregnancy and increased blood volume add stress to veins, resulting in varicose veins. The growing uterus also exerts pressure on pelvic veins, compromising blood flow. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes can relax blood vessels as well. Symptoms may worsen with each successive pregnancy without expert care.
3. Sedentary Lifestyle
Sitting or standing in one position for long periods hinders circulation in the legs, allowing blood to pool in the veins. Occupations requiring extended standing, such as hair styling, manufacturing, or retail jobs, also increase the risk of varicose veins. Lack of physical movement to stimulate blood flow strains veins, causing distension. Exercise is necessary as it activates muscle contractions, propelling blood out of leg veins and up to the heart. A vein clinic may recommend adding movement to your routine to promote circulation.
4. Family History
Varicose veins run in families due to inherited weaknesses in vein structure and function. Genetic mutations also compromise veins’ ability to withstand stress. Knowing your family’s vein history helps doctors determine your predisposition.
5. Body Weight
Excess weight also increases your likelihood of developing varicose veins. Weight places downward pressure on veins in your legs and abdomen, stressing vein walls already weakened by genetic or lifestyle factors. Obesity may cause overworked vein valves to fail. Reducing weight through healthy diet changes and regular exercise may reduce pressure on veins, helping them function better.
Visit a Vein Clinic for Treatment Today
A vein treatment center will assess your medical history and existing conditions to determine the best strategy for managing varicose veins. Seek an evaluation from a vein clinic if you notice bulging, twisted veins, as earlier intervention helps prevent progression. Advanced tools pinpoint problem veins and their location so doctors can implement the proper treatments. Schedule an appointment and start care to improve your circulation and vein health today.
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