Age. Age is a significant factor in whether you may develop varicose veins. Aging causes your veins to lose some of their elasticity. The valves inside your veins stop functioning as efficiently. This can cause varicose veins to develop. [2] X Trustworthy Source National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Research and education center within the National Institutes of Health Go to source Biological sex. Women are more likely to develop varicose veins. This may be because of the hormonal changes female bodies usually experience, such as menopause and pregnancy. Genetics. If a member of your immediate family has varicose veins, you may be at greater risk for developing them as well. [3] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source If you were born with weaker vein valves, you are at higher risk of developing varicose veins. Obesity. Being overweight can put a lot of extra pressure on your veins. This can lead to developing varicose veins. Lack of movement. If you stand or sit still for long stretches of time, you may be at greater risk for developing varicose veins. [4] X Expert Source Vlad Gendelman, MDBoard Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon Expert Interview. 17 July 2020. Staying in position for too long puts extra pressure on your veins to pump blood to your heart. [5] X Research source Leg trauma. If you have had previous trauma or injuries, such as blood clots, you are at higher risk for developing varicose veins. [6] X Trustworthy Source National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Research and education center within the National Institutes of Health Go to source
Avoid added salt when possible. Reducing your salt intake can help reduce swelling in varicose veins. It may also reduce your body’s water retention. [10] X Research source
Running is also helpful in preventing the appearance of varicose veins. It improves circulation in your legs.
Prolonged use of estrogen and progesterone may weaken the valves in your veins and alter circulation in your legs. [14] X Trustworthy Source PLOS ONE Online peer-reviewed, open access scientific research journal Go to source Birth control that uses lower doses of estrogen is less likely to result in varicose veins or blood clots.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you always wear sunscreen when outdoors. Stay out of the sun during midday, when the sun is highest. [16] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Since prolonged standing is almost unavoidable in some jobs, mitigate the harm by shifting your position as frequently as possible. Try to walk around at least every 30 minutes.
Avoid sitting for long stretches of time without taking a break. Get up every half-hour or so to stretch or walk around.
When possible, keep your legs elevated when sitting or sleeping. [22] X Research source Other options include using an inversion table or elevating the foot of your bed so that your feet are slightly higher than your head when you sleep. Consult with your doctor before trying these methods.
Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes instead of high heels. Low-heeled shoes can help tone your calves, which will help your blood move easily through your veins. [24] X Trustworthy Source National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Research and education center within the National Institutes of Health Go to source Make sure your shoes are properly fitted to avoid pinching or tightness. [25] X Research source
Use a tape measure to measure your legs so that you get the right size. Compression stockings should provide firm compression, but shouldn’t necessarily feel tight. [28] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If you will be flying for a long trip, discuss getting compression hose with your medical adviser. These can help reduce strain on your legs and may be helpful for preventing the worsening of existing varicose veins.
Aches and pain in the legs Throbbing or cramping Feelings of heaviness or swelling in the legs Itchy, irritated, or darkened skin Fidgety or restless legs
Sudden swelling of the leg Redness or warmth around the vein Change in skin thickness or color Bleeding on or around a varicose vein Tender lump in your leg Open sores or ulcers
Sclerotherapy. This is the most common treatment for varicose veins. Sclerotherapy involves injecting chemicals into the varicose vein, which causes it to swell and then seal shut. After a few weeks, the vein turns into scar tissue and then fades. This procedure can usually be done right in your doctor’s office. Laser surgery. This is a less common technique, because not all skin types and colors can be treated safely this way. It is also usually not effective for veins larger than 3 millimeters (1/10 of an inch). Endovenous techniques. These treatments are designed for deeper or severe varicose veins. They are usually done under local anesthesia in your doctor’s office. Surgery. Surgeries are usually reserved to treat very large or very severe varicose veins. Consult with your doctor to consider whether surgical treatments are right for you.
