Risk factors for the development of varicose veins

 

Risk factors for varicose veins
  1. Genetic – varicose veins are often hereditary. Such people have a poor composition of the venous wall, which leads to reduced strength and easier dilation.
  2. Pregnancy – the more times a woman has been pregnant, the more often she suffers from varicose veins. During pregnancy the veins are adversely affected by hormonal changes, weight gain and, not least, pressure on the pelvic veins from the enlarging uterus, which prevents proper blood outflow. For these reasons every woman is advised to wear support tights during pregnancy.
  3. Obesity – greater body weight creates higher overpressure in the veins.
  4. Higher physical strain on the legs – prolonged sitting or standing – whereas walking is beneficial. A typical group of people who suffer from varicose veins are waiters (waitresses) and shop assistants.
  5. Unsuitable clothing – constricting bands on socks, knee-highs and tights, and any other tight clothing, also become a risk factor in the formation of varicose veins. High-heeled shoes are also not suitable from the point of view of varicose veins.
  6. Lack of movement – during prolonged static strain, blood accumulates in the limbs, which promotes the formation of varicose veins. During physical activity, blood is driven back to the heart by the muscle pump – especially by means of the calf muscle. The better this pump works, the better venous return is maintained and venous blood does not stagnate.
  7. Ageing.
  8. Inflammation – this is often involved in damaging the venous valves.