›› Causes of Varicose Veins

Nobody wants to suffer from unsightly phlebitis and varicose and spider veins. However, the truth of the matter is that many individuals do suffer from these ailments. It is believed that approximately 20-40% of individuals suffer from varicose veins and that those who suffer develop the condition between ages 30 and 60. There are several different causes of varicose veins and some of them are benign while others are more dangerous.

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Regardless of the reason why you develop varicose veins is the basic answer as to how varicose veins, and spider veins, are formed. Basically, the body uses arteries and veins to carry blood throughout the body. The veins are responsible for moving oxygen poor blood back up through the legs so it can circulate through the system again. Veins have a sort of flap inside the vein that keeps the blood flowing in the correct direction and does not allow it to reverse its flow. But, sometimes that flap is faulty or simply does not work. This results in varicose and spider veins. There are of course some reasons why the flaps are faulty and these include genetics, pregnancy, hormones, obesity, and more.

Genetics
It is believed that genetics plays a significant role in varicose and spider veins. That is to say that if your mother or grandmother has varicose veins you very well may have them as well. Some men develop varicose veins, but women have a significantly higher risk than men do.

Pregnancy
Veins receive a lot of additional pressure during pregnancy. This is due to an increase in blood in the woman’s body. Also, the uterus puts pressure on the veins and circulating blood becomes more challenging for the veins. Because of this the flaps could stop working properly and varicose veins could develop. Most women see their varicose veins improve approximately three months after delivery.

Hormones
An increase in progesterone or estrogen, or a combination of both, can make spider veins, varicose veins, and phlebitis more prominent. A surge in these hormones occurs during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause so women may see some changes in their veins during these times. Women who take birth control pills or other medicines with these hormones in them may also see some vein changes as well.

Obesity
The increased weight from obesity can really put a lot of pressure on the veins in the legs. The same goes for standing for long periods of time. The problem is that the pressure may weaken the flaps in the veins. When this occurs the likelihood of varicose veins or spider veins showing up is much higher.

What is Next?
Now that you know some of the causes of varicose veins you have a better chance of avoiding them or reducing your risk significantly. Of course if you have risk factors there may be nothing you can do, but you can pay attention to your veins and try to maintain a healthy weight, avoid prolonged periods of standing, and use different forms of birth control. For some individuals varicose veins and spider veins are just a part of life and they may become part of your life one day, too!

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Symptoms of Varicose Veins | Medical Treatment of Varicose Veins | Non-Medical Treatment of Varicose Veins | Prevention of Varicose Veins & Spider Veins