Risk factors of varicose veins
- Genetic – varicose veins are often hereditary. These people have defective composition of the venous wall, reducing its strength and allowing its flexibility.
- Pregnancy – the more time a woman was pregnant, the more often she suffers from varicose veins. In pregnancy, the veins are adversely affected by hormonal changes, weight gain, and the pressure on the pelvic veins by the enlarged womb, which prevents proper blood flow. For these reasons, every woman in pregnancy should wear support stockings.
- Obesity – the heavier the body, the greater the pressure in the veins.
- Higher physical strain of the legs – long sitting or standing (although walking is beneficial). Waitresses and salespersons are a typical group of people suffering from varicose veins.
- Inappropriate clothing – choking hems on socks, calf-length stockings, or tights and any other tight clothing is also a risk factor in the formation of varicose veins. Even high heels are not suitable if you wish to prevent varicose veins.
- Lack of movement – In long-term static load, blood accumulates in the limbs, which helps the formation of varicose veins. During physical activity, blood is pumped back to the heart especially by the calf muscle. The better the pump works, the better the venous return and blood circulation.
- Age
- Inflammation – often involved in the damage to the venous valve.