Varicose Veins (cont.)
Who gets varicose and spider veins?
Varicose and spider veins can occur in men or women of any age, but most
frequently affect women in the childbearing years and older people. Varicose
veins are very common. Some estimates suggest that about 10%-15% of men and
20%-25% of women suffer from varicose veins.
A family history of varicose veins and older age increase one's tendency to develop
varicose and spider veins.
Other risk factors include:
What causes varicose and spider veins?
The causes of varicose and spider veins are not entirely understood. In some
instances, the absence or weakness of valves in the veins may cause the poor
venous circulation (blood flow in the veins) and lead to varicose veins. Valves
inside veins normally act to ensure that blood in the veins does not go the
wrong direction (or backwards) away from the large (deep) veins and the heart.
They are mainly located in the perforating and some deep veins.
In other cases, weaknesses in the vein walls may cause the pooling of the
blood. The walls of the blood vessels can become weaker and less competent than
normal, causing the volume of blood in the veins to increase, leading to
varicose veins.
Less commonly, varicose veins are caused by such diseases
as:
- phlebitis (inflammation of the veins),
- blood clots or any obstruction to
blood flow in the veins, or
- congenital abnormalities of the veins.
Venous
disease (disease of the veins) is generally progressive and may not be prevented entirely. However, in
some cases, wearing support hosiery and maintaining normal weight and regular
exercise may be beneficial.
Next: What are varicose vein symptoms? »
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