Why do varicose veins develop?

Varicose veins are a common condition that many people experience, especially as they get older. But why do they develop in the first place?

In this article, consultant vascular surgeon Mr Wissam Al-Jundi explains what causes varicose veins and the factors that increase your risk.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually appear on the legs and feet. They often look blue or purple and may bulge visibly beneath the skin.

For some people, they are purely a cosmetic concern, but in others, they can cause symptoms such as aching, heaviness, itching, or swelling in the legs.

In more advanced cases, they may lead to complications such as skin changes or ulceration.

How do veins normally function?

To understand why varicose veins develop, it helps to first understand veins work under normal circumstances.

Veins carry blood back to the heart, and in the legs, this blood must travel upwards, against gravity. To assist with this, veins have small one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards.

When these valves become weak or damaged, blood can start to pool in the vein instead of flowing back up to the heart. This increased pressure within the vein, causes it to stretch, swell, and become varicose.

What causes vein valves to fail?

It is often a combination of factors that place extra pressure on the veins or weaken the vein walls over time. Such as:

Genetics

If close family members have varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them yourself due to inherited weaknesses in the vein walls or valves.

Age

As we age, vein walls and valves can naturally lose elasticity and function less effectively, making varicose veins more likely to occur.

Hormonal changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels, like those during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking hormonal contraception, can relax vein walls and increase the risk of valve dysfunction.

Prolonged standing or sitting

Long periods of standing or sitting can impair circulation and increase pressure in the leg veins, contributing to varicose vein formation.

Excess weight

Excess body weight puts additional pressure on leg veins, which can make it harder for blood to travel upwards effectively.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body produces more blood, and the growing uterus places pressure on the veins in the pelvis, making it more difficult for blood to return from the legs. Hormonal changes may also play a role.

Can varicose veins be prevented?

While you may not be able to completely prevent varicose veins, there are steps you can take to lower your risk.

Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding long periods of inactivity, and elevating your legs can all support healthy vein function.

Wearing compression stockings may also help those at higher risk.

When to seek help

If your varicose veins are causing pain, swelling, skin discolouration, or ulcers, it is important to seek medical assessment. Even if symptoms are mild, treatment may help prevent progression and improve comfort.

Modern treatments are minimally invasive and highly effective, ranging from laser therapy to foam sclerotherapy and surgical options.

Varicose veins occur when the valves inside our veins stop working properly, and multiple factors contribute to their development.

If you’re concerned about varicose veins or experiencing symptoms, visit Mr Wissam Al-Jundi’s profile to explore treatment options and improve your quality of life.