What causes varicose veins?

The veins in our bodies have one-way valves inside them which open and close to carry deoxygenated blood back to our hearts.

When the walls of the veins become weakened or are damaged, veins grow in size and these valves don’t function as they should.

As a result, blood can pool inside the veins and cause them to swell, bulge or twist.

This leads to what known as varicose veins.

Normally knobbly, twisted and dark-blue in colour, varicose veins usually develop in the lower part of the body.

This includes on calves, ankles and feet, as well in the pelvic area for women who have given birth.

Factors that can cause varicose veins to develop

The cause of varicose veins in some people is not always clear, but we do know of a number of factors which may increase the risk of developing them.

Women develop varicose veins at a higher rate than men, with hormonal changes that occur during puberty, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause believed to play a role.

Other potential factors include:

• Family history – Those who have varicose veins which run in the family are statistically more likely to develop varicose veins themselves.
• Sitting or standing for long periods of time – Sitting or standing for too long can increase the pressure on your veins and reduce blood flow, which can lead to blood pooling in the veins.
• A lack of exercise – If you don’t get enough regular exercise, your leg muscles become weaker and blood circulation can be impaired.
• Obesity – Excess weight adds pressure on your veins, which can weaken their walls and valves and limit blood flow.
• Smoking – This not only damages blood vessels throughout the body and weakens vein walls and valves, but also raises blood pressure and can increase the risk of developing blood clots.
• Older age – As we age, our veins lose some of their elasticity and become less efficient at returning blood to our hearts.
• Previous blood clots – Those who have a history of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) are at an increased risk of developing varicose veins.

Treatments for varicose veins

Many people seek treatments for varicose veins – and not just for cosmetic reasons.

While appearance is a factor for many who go down the treatment path, varicose veins can sometimes cause other symptoms like pain, aching, itching and dry skin.

While varicose veins are not a serious health issue for most people, occasionally they can cause complications like bleeding, rashes and even blood clots.

However, there are a range of effective treatments available to eliminate varicose veins, including laser therapy and surgery.

Want to get rid of your varicose veins?

If you have varicose veins which you want gone, we can help.

At Laser Vein Co, we are a leading provider of varicose veins treatments in Melbourne and wider Victoria.

Ask your doctor for a referral to our clinic and then book in an appointment so that we can guide you through the best – and most effective – treatment options that are available to you.