Are Varicose Veins Hereditary?

Whenever we treat a Nelson or Marlborough client for varicose veins, they are always keen to know the reason they got them in the first place. A question clients often ask is, “Are Varicose Veins Hereditary?” So, in this week’s article, we thought we would answer that question.

But first, let’s look at why and how varicose veins manifest.

Veins form an essential part of the circulatory system; they return blood to the heart after body cells exchange waste products for Oxygen. Varicose veins, however, are a sign of an underlying problem and may develop through a combination of underlying factors; weakened vein walls, high venous pressures, and faulty valves. Healthy valves open to allow blood flow, then close to stop it from flowing backwards. The blood pools when this simple pump system malfunctions, creating a bulging, knotted look.

Are Varicose Veins Hereditary?

Many factors add to the risk of varicose veins developing.

Excess Weight:

Being overweight can contribute to a whole raft of health issues. And varicose veins are no exception. Carrying those extra kilos can put extra pressure on your circulatory system, eventually developing varicose veins.

Hormones:

A change in hormones can often lead to varicose veins. Many pregnant women or mothers of young children present with varicose veins. And while lots of young Mums think they will leave varicose vein treatment until after their families are complete, we caution against this approach. Not addressing varicose veins will simply make future pregnancies very uncomfortable. It is easy to fit in a non-surgical treatment with David between babies to make your legs happier.

We also see women who have experienced hormonal changes through medication (birth control pills or HRT) or menopause at our vein clinics in Nelson and Marlborough.

Sedentary Lifestyle:

We all know it’s good to keep moving. That’s why your ‘smart’ wearable devices track your steps and prompt you to stand if you’ve been sitting for too long. To keep the blood flowing, set alarms to remind you to get up and stretch your legs throughout the day.

But it’s not just desk jobs that contribute to a higher risk of varicose veins; so too do those that require you to be on your feet all day. So, if you’re on your feet all day, try to put your feet up during your tea breaks.

Age:

Now, please don’t think young people can’t get varicose veins. At enhanceskin, we’ve treated teenagers from as young as sixteen. But, getting older can undoubtedly increase your chances of developing varicose veins. As you age, your body starts to show signs of wear and tear and vein valves that help regulate blood flow are no exception.

Genes:

And now we get back to the original question, “Are varicose veins hereditary?” In a nutshell, the answer is ‘yes’! Dr Orsbourn firmly maintains that the leading cause of why you will develop varicose veins over another person who won’t all boils down to the genetic card you are dealt in life! If your parents or grandparents have suffered from varicose veins, there is a higher likelihood that you will too.

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If you have visible varicose veins or are suffering from painful, tired or heavy legs, talk to us about a FREE full doctor’s vein assessment, and a scan to determine the most suitable treatment. Your treatment plan also includes follow-up appointments for twelve months afterwards.

Contact us to book your appointment with David!