What Are the Main Causes of Varicose Veins? Find Out Now!

You’re getting ready for the day, putting on your favorite outfit, but you notice those bluish, bulging veins on your legs have become more prominent. Perhaps they cause discomfort, swelling, or aching, making it hard to ignore. You might be wondering what exactly causes varicose veins and whether they are just a cosmetic concern or something more serious.

At VIP Medical Group, we understand how frustrating and worrisome varicose veins can be. Our goal is to help you uncover the root causes of varicose veins so you can make informed decisions about your health. With our team of board-certified vein specialists, we offer the most advanced minimally invasive varicose vein treatments to help you restore your vein health. In this article, we explore the causes of varicose veins, who is at risk, and how you can get the treatment you need. Contact us to schedule a consultation at one of our vein clinics today.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

What causes varicose veins? Varicose veins are a direct result of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition in which the valves in your veins do not function properly, leading to blood pooling in the legs. Normally, veins carry blood from various parts of your body back to your heart. This process works smoothly due to tiny valves in the veins that open and close, ensuring blood flows in one direction. However, when these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can flow backward and accumulate in the veins, causing them to enlarge and become varicose.

While CVI is the primary cause, several other factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins, which we will discuss in the following sections. By understanding the root cause, you can take the necessary steps to seek treatment and prevent complications down the road.

Risk Factors for Varicose Veins

Certain factors may predispose you to developing varicose veins, including:

1. Age: As you age, natural wear and tear on your veins can lead to valve malfunction. This is why varicose veins are more common in people over 50. Over time, the veins lose elasticity, and the valves weaken, increasing the likelihood of blood pooling in your legs.
2. Family History: Genetics plays a significant role in the development of varicose veins. If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them as well. Studies suggest that a family history of the condition increases your chances due to inherited weaknesses in vein structure or valve function.
3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially in women, can contribute to the development of varicose veins. Pregnancy and menopause can alter hormone levels, leading to vein walls relaxing and valves weakening. Pregnant women, in particular, are at higher risk due to the increased blood volume and pressure on the veins in the legs.
4. Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Your occupation or lifestyle could be a factor in developing varicose veins. Jobs that require long periods of standing, such as teaching or nursing, or sitting at a desk for hours can prevent proper blood flow. Lack of movement hinders circulation, causing blood to pool in your legs, which can lead to varicose veins.
5. Obesity: Carrying extra weight puts additional pressure on your veins, especially those in the legs. This added pressure makes it harder for the veins to push blood back to the heart, increasing the risk of valve dysfunction and the development of varicose veins. Maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate this pressure and reduce your risk.

The Importance of Addressing Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issue. Left untreated, they can lead to more serious health problems such as:

• Leg Swelling and Pain: Blood pooling in the veins can cause discomfort, swelling, and even pain, making it difficult to stay active.
• Skin Changes: Untreated varicose veins can cause the skin around the veins to become discolored or develop ulcers.
• Blood Clots: In severe cases, varicose veins can lead to the formation of blood clots, a potentially life-threatening condition.

The good news is that there are several minimally invasive vein treatment options available to manage and eliminate varicose veins. At VIP Medical Group, we specialize in diagnosing the root cause of varicose veins and offering effective varicose vein treatments to prevent complications. Learn about our varicose vein treatments today!

Minimally Invasive Varicose Vein Treatment Options

At VIP Medical Group, we pride ourselves on offering the most advanced, minimally invasive varicose vein treatments. Our board-certified vein specialists use cutting-edge techniques that are safe, effective, and typically covered by insurance if deemed medically necessary.

1. Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the varicose vein, causing it to collapse and fade over time. This procedure is quick, relatively painless, and highly effective for small varicose veins.
2. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA): EVLA is a popular treatment that uses laser energy to close off the affected vein. Once the vein is sealed, blood is naturally rerouted through healthier veins. This procedure is done under local anesthesia and has minimal downtime.
3. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Similar to EVLA, RFA uses radiofrequency energy to heat and close off the varicose vein. It is a safe, effective procedure with a quick recovery time, allowing you to resume daily activities shortly after the treatment.
4. VenaSeal: VenaSeal is a medical-grade adhesive used to seal varicose veins. It offers an alternative to thermal treatments like EVLA or RFA, and it does not require the use of heat or tumescent anesthesia, making it a comfortable option for many patients.
5. Ambulatory Phlebectomy: This is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove larger varicose veins through tiny incisions in the skin. This method is ideal for treating veins that are too large for other treatments.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, it’s essential to seek professional help. Most varicose vein treatments are covered by insurance when the condition is deemed medically necessary, which means that getting relief may be more affordable than you think.

Take Action on Your Varicose Veins

Now that you understand the main causes of varicose veins and the risk factors, it’s time to take control of your vein health. Varicose veins may be common, but they don’t have to be something you live with forever. At VIP Medical Group, our Harvard-trained vein specialists are dedicated to helping you find the right varicose vein treatment for your specific needs. With state-of-the-art locations across the United States, including New York, Long Island, California, Maryland, and New Jersey, we make it easy to access world-class vein care.

Visit your nearest vein clinic or contact us to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you regain comfort, confidence, and healthy circulation.