Varicose veins occur when a vein becomes enlarged and dilated (swollen) due to poor blood flow. When this happens, small blood clots begin to form. These clots break off slowly over time and travel through the blood vessel wall toward the heart. When blood repeatedly travels through thin artery and vein walls, this can lead to varicose veins and sometimes other complications such as varicose ulcers or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Some of the most common factors that can increase your risk for varicose veins Weston include:
Being overweight or obese
Being overweight or obese is one of the most common factors that increase your risk for varicose veins. Being overweight or obese can lead to several health issues, including varicose veins. You may notice that as you gain weight over time, you begin to develop varicose veins around your legs. That is because the increased pressure of your body weight on your legs causes an increase in blood flow and pressure within the veins. If you are overweight or obese, it is important to try and lose weight as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
Having a sedentary lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing varicose veins, causing poor leg circulation. It can be due to sitting too long at work or school, which causes weak muscles and poor circulation in your legs. That can cause varicose veins to develop on top of this weakened muscle tissue, which makes it more likely that you will develop a condition such as varicose vein disease.
Having diabetes or high blood pressure
Diabetes causes damage to the small blood vessels in your legs, increasing your risk of varicose veins. High blood pressure also makes it harder for your body to circulate blood through your veins properly, which can cause them to become enlarged and dilated.
Having a family history of varicose veins
A family history of varicose veins increases your risk of developing varicose veins. It is because your genes are passed down from parents to children. The gene you inherit may predispose you to develop varicose veins in later life.
Having used oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
Some women who take birth control pills develop varicose veins as a side effect. However, it is unclear whether this is due to the pill itself or other factors such as obesity and hormonal changes associated with pregnancy or menopause. If you take birth control pills, consult with your doctor about possible alternatives that won’t cause varicose vein problems if you are concerned about this side effect.
Varicose veins are a common, unsightly, and painful problem. Doctors usually treat them with medication, surgery, or both. If you have varicose veins, you must contact a doctor for treatment as soon as possible. Varicose veins can lead to other problems, such as leg ulcers and infections. The sooner you treat varicose veins, the less likely these complications will develop. Contact Soffer Health Institute to book an appointment with a cardiologist to learn more about varicose veins and effective treatment options for your case.