What Causes Varicose Veins?

WHAT CAUSES VARICOSE VEINS? VARICOSE VEINS AT A GLANCE Unsightly, twisted veins that appear underneath the skin's surface When vein valves are weak or damaged, veins swell and become varicose Pain can range from mild to more severe, and may cause other problems Most commonly found in the legs, though can appear in other parts of the body BREAKING DOWN VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY Valves in a vein work to keep blood flowing in a single direction The valves may stop working properly, allowing blood to flow backwards in the vein A variety of factors can weaken or damage the vein valves Often occurs in the great saphenous vein, which is the longest vein in the body NORMAL VEIN VARICOSE VEIN Blood can begin to pool, putting pressure on the vein walls and causing them to bulge This condition, called venous insufficiency, is the root cause of varicose veins It should be addressed prior to varicose vein treatment Signs of venous insufficiency include: • BULGING VARICOSE VEINS • SKIN DISCOLORATION • A FEELING OF HEAVINESS IN THE LEGS • ACHINESS • CRAMPING • ITCHING OR BURNING SENSATIONS • RESTLESS LEGS • SWELLING • SKIN ULCERS COMMON CAUSES OF VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY AGE Vein valves tend to weaken over time The older you are, the greater your risk of venous insufficiency SEX Women are more likely than men to develop venous insufficiency Hormonal changes can weaken the veins and cause them to become varicose PREGNANCY Pregnant women have more blood in the body than non-pregnant ome Circulation patterns change, affecting the flow from the legs to the pelvis FAMILY HISTORY A family history of varicose veins makes you more likely to develop them, too NINT You can become more aware of your risk and take preventive measures WEIGHT Overweight or obese individuals are at a greater risk of venous insufficiency Losing weight may help you improve your symptoms HABITS People who stand or sit for long periods may develop venous insufficiency If you must do this for your occupation, try to take breaks and move around CREATED BY: PREMIER vein & vascular center www.PREMIERVEIN.COM Sources: www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/dxc-20178128 www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/w www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/w/causes www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/understanding-varicose-veins-basics