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Varicose Veins - Will You get It?
Varicose Veins are quite common.
We all stand a 1 in 3 chance of developing Varicose Veins. Your chances are greater if you are Female than Male.
Who is likely to get varicose veins?
Anyone can develop varicose veins. Certain factors increase your chances of developing varicose veins, including:
- Age:Because of the aging process, vein walls and valves don’t work as well as they once did. Veins lose elasticity and stiffen.
- Gender: Female hormones can allow the walls of the veins to stretch. People who are pregnant, taking the birth control pill or going through menopause have a higher risk of varicose veins because of changes in hormone levels.
- Family history:This condition can be inherited (runs in families).
- Lifestyle:Standing or sitting for long periods decreases circulation. Wearing restrictive clothing, such as girdles or pants with tight waistbands can decrease blood flow.
- Overall health: Certain health conditions, such as severe constipation or certain tumors, increase pressure in the veins.
- Tobacco use:People who use tobacco products are more likely to develop varicose veins.
- Weight: Excess weight puts pressure on blood vessels.
How are varicose veins prevented?
There’s no sure-fire way to prevent varicose veins, although you can reduce your risk of getting them, or getting more, by:
- avoiding standing for long periods of time
- managing your weight
- being more active
- changing your sitting or standing position regularly
- avoiding wearing high heels for long periods
- putting your legs up when resting
- don't cross your legs when you're sitting
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