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Risk Factors Of Varicose Veins
The following factors increase the risk of an individual developing varicose veins;
- Age: The vein valves that aid in controlling blood flow deteriorate with age. As a result of that wear, the vents eventually permit some backflow of blood into the veins, where it accumulates.
- Pregnancy: in pregnant women, the total volume of blood in the body increases, this is to provide adequate oxygenation and nutrition for the fetus, but as this blood increases, it can also result in an increase and expansion of the diameter of vessels, which include the veins.
- Sex: women are more at risk of varicose veins compared to men because of the hormonal changes that occur in women. Hormonal changes before the period, during menstruation, and pre and post-menopausal all predispose a woman to varicose veins. Studies also reveal that contraceptive pills also increase the chances of a woman developing varicose veins (1).
- Lifestyle: circulation is altered when one stands or sits for a long period. Also, the use of tight clothing restricts the flow of blood around the body and reduces circulation
- Family history: The presence of a varicose vein in one member of the family is a big risk factor because genetically proven, it doubles the risk of having a varicose vein in a lifetime.
- Obesity: excessive weight gain leads to an increase in the pressure exerted on the blood vessels, and this can also predispose an individual to varicose veins.
- Smoking: tobacco smokers are at higher risk of developing varicose veins (3).
