Causes Of Varicose Veins
The Causes of Varicose Veins – And Why You Should Seek Treatment
Some medical conditions are so common, that we may even forget to consider what causes them to occur in the first place. One such condition is varicose or spider veins. They are estimated to affect up to 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men globally. We’ve all seen it, whether it be on a close relative or on ourselves – those red, blue or purple twisted blood vessels that most commonly occur on the legs. But what exactly are the causes of varicose veins, are they dangerous, and what can we do about it?
Before we look at the causes of varicose veins, let’s first answer the question: what exactly are they?
In short, varicose veins are swollen, twisting blood vessels that happen as the result of weakened or damaged valves in the blood vessels that allow the blood to pool or flow in the wrong direction.
What causes the valves to weaken and blood to pool?
Note: the following is a list of common causes of and risk factors for this condition, but not all of these factors will necessarily lead to the forming of varicose veins. Furthermore, other additional factors not mentioned here can also play a role.
- Pregnancy (due to the pressure it puts on the abdomen)
- Obesity
- Constipation
- Tumors (albeit a rare occurrence)
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Menopause
- Old age
- Standing for long periods
- Sitting with legs crossed for long periods
- Family history of the condition
Should you be worried if and when this condition appears?
In most cases, this condition does not pose an immediate threat to a patient’s health and treatment is not essential. However, it can lead to or be indicative of other complications that need to be addressed. These include:
- Deep vein thrombosis – this is the most serious complication; the presence of varicose veins may be indicative of this underlying condition, which could potentially be life threatening.
- Burst blood vessels – if left untreated the damaged vessels could potentially burst, which can lead to a medical emergency.
- Major discomfort caused by symptoms such as aching, paining, cramping, burning or itching legs, heavy legs, restless legs, swollen ankles, or eczema – these symptoms can all negatively affect your quality of life.
- Low self-esteem – the unsightly nature of this condition could cause some patients to be self-conscious and affect their self-esteem over time.
For more information about the causes of varicose veins and how to treat this condition, contact The Gibson Vein Practice.
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