Do you have a family member struggling with unsightly varicose veins? Although varicose veins are harmless in most cases, they can sometimes cause health issues when left untreated. It’s therefore important to know if you are at risk for this vascular condition.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins that are typically seen on the legs. They usually occur because of a deficiency in the one-way valves in the vein, which hinders the ability of the blood to flow out of the vein, which causes it to become swollen and puffy (read more).
Am I at risk for varicose veins?
The following factors may increase your risk for varicose veins:
- Obesity: People that are overweight are more likely to develop varicose veins because excessive weight can impede blood circulation, and cause the valve in the vein to weaken.
- Pregnancy: Varicose veins are common in pregnant women, due to hormonal changes. Hormonal fluctuations can cause the walls of the blood vessel to weaken and increase pressure in the leg veins, resulting in varicose veins.
- Sitting or standing for long periods: When you remain in one position for a long time the blood does not circulate as it should, causing the blood to pool in the vein.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop varicose veins, because they have higher levels of the hormone progesterone. Researchers believe that progesterone can cause the veins to dilate, and this in turn damages the valves in the veins.
- Family history of the condition: If you have family members with varicose veins, there is a greater chance you will develop them too.
Would you like to learn more about varicose veins? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you are in the Kansas City, Leawood, and Overland Park, KS areas, Premier Vein & Body by Schwartz is our featured practice.
You can reach them at www.premierveinandbody.com, or by calling (913) 586-2363.