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Diseases » Varicose veins » Risk Factors

Risk Factors for Varicose veins

List of Risk Factors for Varicose veins

The list of risk factors mentioned for Varicose veins in various sources includes:

Family history of varicose veins
Aging
Obesity
Pregnancy
Puberty
Menopause
Estrogen
Progesterone
Birth control pills
Leg injury
Excessive standing
Sun exposure - can trigger facial spider veins.
Constipation

Risk factors discussion:

No one knows the exact cause of spider and varicose veins, but there are several factors that cause a person to be more likely to develop them. Heredity, or being born with weak vein valves, is the greatest factor. Hormones also play a role. The hormonal changes that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, as well as taking estrogen, progesterone, and birth control pills can cause a woman to develop varicose veins or spider veins. During pregnancy, besides the increases in hormone levels, there also is a great increase in the volume of blood in the body that can cause veins to enlarge. The enlarged uterus also puts more pressure on the veins. (Within 3 months after delivery, varicose veins usually improve. However, more abnormal veins are likely to develop and remain after additional pregnancies.)

Other factors that weaken vein valves and that may cause varicose or spider veins include aging, obesity, leg injury, and prolonged standing, such as for long hours on the job. Spider veins on the cheeks or nose of a fair-skinned person may occur from sun exposure. (Source: excerpt from VARICOSE VEINS AND SPIDER VEINS: NWHIC)

About risk factors:

Risk factors for Varicose veins are factors that do not seem to be a direct cause of the disease, but seem to be associated in some way. Having a risk factor for Varicose veins makes the chances of getting a condition higher but does not always lead to Varicose veins. Also, the absence of any risk factors or having a protective factor does not necessarily guard you against getting Varicose veins. For general information and a list of risk factors, see the risk center.