Who Gets Varicose Veins? Understanding Your Situation
Varicose veins are common, but not everyone is equally at risk. Genetics and family history are the strongest predictors — if one or both of your parents have varicose veins, you are significantly more likely to develop them yourself. Other important contributors include being female, pregnancy, increasing age, prolonged standing or sitting at work, excess body weight, and a previous deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Having one or more of these risk factors does not mean you will necessarily develop varicose veins — many people with several risk factors never do, while others with very few risk factors do. Ultimately, genetics plays the dominant role. For a full explanation of what causes varicose veins and how the valves fail, see the causes of varicose veins.
The sections below explain how each risk group is specifically affected. Select the one that best fits your situation.
Patient Groups
Women
Women develop varicose veins more frequently than men. Female hormones, particularly progesterone, can relax the vein walls and contribute to valve dysfunction. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation and menopause also increase the risk of developing varicose veins.
Read morePregnant Women
Pregnancy places considerable strain on the venous system. Increased blood volume, hormonal changes and pressure from the enlarging uterus all make it more difficult for blood to return from the legs to the heart. The risk increases with each pregnancy, although many women notice partial improvement after childbirth.
Read moreYoung People
Although varicose veins become more common with increasing age, they can develop in young adults and occasionally in teenagers. In younger people, genetics is usually the most important factor — some people first notice visible varicose veins in their twenties or thirties, despite being otherwise healthy and physically active.
Read moreOlder Adults
The likelihood of developing varicose veins increases with age as vein walls lose elasticity and the valves gradually become less effective. Nevertheless, varicose veins are not exclusively a condition of older adults and can occur much earlier, particularly in those with a strong genetic predisposition.
Read morePeople Who Stand or Sit for Long Periods
Occupations that require prolonged standing or prolonged sitting may increase venous pressure in the legs and worsen symptoms. Teachers, nurses, surgeons, retail workers, hairdressers, office workers and drivers are among those who may experience greater strain on the leg veins. Remaining in one position for extended periods reduces the effectiveness of the calf muscle pump, allowing blood to pool in the lower limbs.
Read morePeople Who Are Overweight or Obese
Excess body weight increases pressure within the veins of the legs and may accelerate the progression of chronic venous disease. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce symptoms and improve overall venous health, although it cannot reverse existing valve damage.
People with a Previous Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
A previous DVT can damage the valves within the deep veins, leading to chronic venous insufficiency and secondary varicose veins. Patients with a history of DVT who develop new leg swelling, skin changes or varicose veins should undergo specialist assessment.