Venous disease and varicose veins have a strong hereditary link. Often, many members of a family will have the condition, so ask your relatives if they have ever been treated. Note: Deep vein thrombosis is a serious risk factor that should not be overlooked.
These factors increase your risk of developing varicose veins: Age: Varicose veins usually appear between ages 30 and 70 and get progressively worse. Sex: Women are more likely than men are to develop the condition. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, or menopause may be a factor. Female hormones tend to relax vein walls. Taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills may increase your risk of varicose veins. Genetics: If other family members had varicose veins, there’s a greater chance that you will too. Obesity: Being overweight puts added pressure on your veins. Standing for long periods of time: Your blood doesn’t flow as well if you’re in the same position for long periods of time.
What to expect as a patient
